One of South Florida’s most popular galas is leaving the ballroom and hitting the pool.
Diversity Honors, presented by the Harvey Milk Foundation (HMF), honors women and men who exemplify the spirit and values inspired by martyred LGBT rights activist Harvey Milk.
The event, set for 7 p.m. April 1, is once again being held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, but this year will be held at their opulent pool. The seventh edition of the party will be under the stars with poolside dinner and an open bar.
HMF and Diversity Honors remain important advocates for equality. HMF’s Miriam Richter said, “Even though Harvey has been gone almost 50 years, there is still a long way to go to achieving equality and acceptance for all. The messages to the LGBTQ+ community and the world, that he so beautifully articulated, are still needed daily, and his exemplary embodiment of true authenticity is still a model for the world.”
The evening will be hosted by Jacey Birch of WPLG. Seven people and one organization will be recognized for their decades of service and dedication to South Florida’s LGBT community. The honorees include Commissioner Nicole M. Ramirez, Queen Mother of the International Court System, who has been a Latino/LGBTQ+ activist for over 50 years.
Carol Moran is receiving the Harvey Milk Medal. She was instrumental in launching the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of South Florida (now The Pride Center at Equality Park) capital campaign to find its first home and served as the campaign’s board president. As the current co-owner of Apt. 9F restaurant, she remains a visible force who advocates on the right side of history.
Damian McKinney is Stoli Group’s global CEO. Under his leadership, the spirits brand has flourished and is unwavering in its support of worldwide LGBT initiatives and innovative activations, and is getting the HMF Global Leadership Award.
Florida State Senator Shevrin “Shev” Jones, the only gay person in the body, will receive the Diversity Honors Award.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” legend Latice Royale uses her platform to raise awareness, support equality, and advocate for social change. She is getting the Diversity Honors Award as well.
A pair of South Florida’s most influential music legends will also get Diversity Honors Awards. Jacqueline Lorber, president and CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra, and Sebrina María Alfonso, founder and music director of South Florida Symphony Orchestra, are an award-winning entrepreneurial and creative LGBT duo who helm the region’s largest symphony, now celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Bears of South Florida is celebrating its 20th anniversary and will get the Diversity Honors Award. The organization hosts fun events for great causes, and has awarded more than $150,000 in grants.
For tickets and more information, visit DiversityHonors.org.
