Gilbert To Receive Voice For Equality Award

 

By Special To Konk Life

 

Constance Gilbert, who as C.S. Gilbert writes the Culture Vulture and other articles as feature writer for Konk Life, will be the recipient this year of the Voice For Equality award at the Equality Florida Key West Gala on March 29.

 

 

Gilbert is a lifelong activist in support of women’s and LGBT rights. She joined the KW Gala Host Committee more than 14 years ago, making her the longest serving committee member in the state. She selflessly devotes her energy, passion and many talents to Equality Florida, contributing in no small part to its continued growth and success.

 

 

Equality Florida is the largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Through lobbying, grassroots organizing, education and coalition building, they are changing Florida so that no one suffers harassment or discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

 

 

Equality Florida was formed in 1997 as Gov. Jeb Bush took office and Florida’s state government took a hard turn to the right. In an era of setbacks for progressive causes, Equality Florida has defeated every piece of anti-LGBT legislation filed in Tallahassee for 16 years in a row. These bills included efforts to overturn all local antI-discrimination policies, repeal all safe schools policies, expand Florida’s anti-gay adoption ban, and prohibit domestic partnership benefits and protections.

 

 

 

There is no charge to attend the Gala, but attendees will be inspired to make a contribution and RSVPs are requested to [email protected]. This year, Key West City Commissioner Jimmy Weekley spearheaded an essay contest at Key West High School on “What Equality Means To Me,” whose finalists will be announced and awarded prizes.

 

 

Drinks, a buffet, and a brief program including the “state of the state” by Equality Florida CEO Nadine Smith will fill the event at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St., from 6 to 8:30 p.m. In celebration and support of the work of Equality Florida.

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