REACH LA, a Los Angeles-based community organization supporting LGBTQ+ people of color, announced its plans to honor actress and comedian Michelle Buteau and creator and activist, Amber Whittington at its 3rd annual celebration gala, with proceeds going towards LA wildfire relief.
Buteau said:
Receiving this award from REACH LA, an organization doing such important work with LGBTQIA+ youth of color in Los Angeles, is such an honor for me.
As an artist, my goal is always to create real life, a beautiful world that is diverse and real. I always just hope that my work provides the necessary joy to those who see themselves represented and perhaps inspire those advocating for marginalized communities to keep pushing for representation and inclusivity in all spaces.
Amber Whittington, known on social media as @AmbersCloset, will receive REACH LA’s Community Activist Award for her leading contributions to LGBTQ+ advocacy. A trailblazer in digital media, Amber was one of the first openly lesbian creators to use her platform as a space to educate, empower, and activate change. Her activism has extended far beyond social media, reaching as far as The White House, where she has championed safe spaces and representation for the LGBTQ+ community.
These new honorees will join Peppermint, musician Jessica Betts, and activist and author, Blair Imani, as its distinguished guests of the evening—hosted by Bob the Drag Queen and Monét X Change.
This year’s gala will feature on-site HIV/AIDS testing in partnership with the CDC’s Let’s Stop HIV Together campaign, in recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Month. Guests can also take part in a unique offering with complementary on-site tattoos (donations encouraged). In response to the recent fires, 100% of the proceeds will support LA fire relief efforts. These funds will provide essential services such as free mental health therapy, clothing donations, transportation, and access to vital resources through REACH LA’s Community Resource Hub.
REACH LA’s gala will take place on February 15th at Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. The gala will raise crucial funds for the nonprofit’s Mental Health and Creative Arts programming, which enables REACH LA to provide 100% free mental health therapy, and provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth to explore and showcase their talents. Offerings include free classes and access to the studio for dance, music, photography, digital art, VOGUE, and more.
Tickets and tables are now available for purchase for $300 per ticket and $3,000 per table, for more information please visit www.reachla.info/gala.
