#United States #Los Angeles #REACH LA #Jessica Betts #Guillermo Diaz

Celebrating Excellence: REACH LA's 3rd Annual Gala

On February 15th, 2025, REACH LA, a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals of color, will host its 3rd Annual Celebration Gala at the historic Union Station in Los Angeles. This highly-anticipated event will honor the remarkable work of Guillermo Diaz, renowned actor and advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility, alongside an impressive array of community leaders, celebrities, and supporters of the mission.

A Milestone in Advocacy

This year's gala, co-hosted by popular drag personalities Bob the Drag Queen and Monet X Change, aims to shed light on the pressing need for mental health resources within the LGBTQ+ community, while simultaneously raising funds for wildfire recovery efforts in Los Angeles. As part of the event, attendees will be treated to a heartfelt tribute to the honorees, including a live performance by Artist Impact Award recipient Jessica Betts, presented by her spouse, the celebrated actress Niecy Nash-Betts.

Guillermo Diaz, best known for his pivotal role as Huck in the hit television series Scandal, will receive REACH LA's Pillar of Excellence Award. This honor recognizes his commitment to fostering inclusivity and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community through his artistic endeavors. Presented by his friend and fellow actor Katie Lowes, Diaz's recognition is not only a celebration of his career but also a tribute to the empowerment he provides to the next generation of artists.

Honoring Trailblazers

In addition to Diaz, REACH LA will celebrate numerous other distinguished honorees, including Dr. Ayanna Elliott, recognized for her advocacy in transgender healthcare, and Onyx Southwest, which will receive the Community Partnership Award for its invaluable collaboration with REACH LA on various initiatives. King Jamari Amour will be honored with the Dr. Stephaun E. Wallace Legacy of Hope award, in remembrance of his impactful mentorship within the ballroom scene. Other notable honorees include prominent activists and figures such as Peppermint, Michelle Buteau, Amber Whittington, and Blair Imani.

A Night to Remember

The gala itself promises to be a vibrant evening filled with inspiration, camaraderie, and a commitment to change. Attendees can look forward to sharing their stories and experiences, learning from one another, and celebrating the paths they have forged together in pursuit of equity and visibility. Additionally, local artists will provide free tattoos to guests as a creative tribute to the resilience of the community.

Furthermore, funds raised from the gala will directly support REACH LA's critical mental health and creative arts programs, which serve marginalized LGBTQ+ people of color by providing a safe haven for self-expression, healing, and personal development. REACH LA has been at the forefront of this essential work since its inception in 1992, helping to address the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in the realm of healthcare, education, and artistic expression.

Join the Movement

By participating in events like the Annual Celebration Gala, individuals not only honor the legacy of committed advocates like Guillermo Diaz but also support an important mission that extends far beyond one night of celebration. The collective effort represents a powerful movement towards creating inclusive, supportive environments where everyone can thrive.

For more details about the gala or to purchase tickets, visit REACH LA's official site or follow the organization on social media @reach__la. Use the hashtag #REACHLAgala to join the conversation and engage with a community dedicated to uplifting every voice in the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.