Sterling K. Brown and Jean Smarr recognized for their support of the LGBTQ+ community

Despite a brief interruption by protestors advocating for a Gaza ceasefire, the Human Rights Campaign gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night proceeded as planned, largely serving as a rallying point for Democratic candidates and the LGBTQ+ community.

Alongside a keynote address from First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, Jean Smart and Sterling K. Brown received honors at the event. Smart was presented with the National Equality Award, while Brown was recognized with the Ally for Equality Award.

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Jean Smart's Impactful Contributions to LGBTQ+ Representation

Smart mentioned being asked about her status as a gay icon, expressing her honor to be associated with legends like Judy, Liza, Bette, Joan, and Cher. She pondered the qualities that made these women iconic, suggesting it was their unapologetic honesty and confidence, always exuding style and grace.

Smart has been closely linked to series that hold significant resonance within the queer community, such as Hacks, Watchmen, and the 1980s sitcom Designing Women, which notably featured one of the earliest storylines addressing AIDS on network television.

Advocating for Equality and Representation

In his speech, Brown highlighted the significance of the Human Rights Campaign's efforts, emphasizing the interconnectedness of civil rights and LGBTQ rights. He shared that his Oscar-nominated performance in American Fiction paid tribute to his vibrant, brilliant, Black lesbian aunt, Vera Harris.

Among the notable attendees was Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who spoke to Variety about his distinctive role in LGBTQ+ representation on television. Rebecca Wisocky emphasized the significance of utilizing humor to engage and educate a broad audience on queer issues. Dana Goldberg took charge of the fundraising segments of the evening, securing over $30,000 from spontaneous donations.

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