PHOENIX – The Phoenix Steering Committee of the Human Rights Campaign is proud to announce Quarles & Brady, LLP as the recipient of the 2012 Corporate Equality Award which will be presented at the organization’s annual gala dinner on March 24.  This is the organization’s eighth annual celebration in Phoenix, bringing together an array of local supporters to “Be Part of Equality,” the 2012 gala’s theme.

Quarles & Brady is a friend and sponsor of the Human Rights Campaign and goes the extra mile to support the LGBT community and truly embody “Be Part of Equality.”  The firm has also been repeatedly engaged in free trainings offered by the local HRC steering committee, including training regarding transgender inclusion and coming out in the workplace. Additionally, Quarles & Brady has created internal programs and policies specifically designed to address the needs of LGBT personnel, while continuing to support the LGBT community though memberships and sponsorships.

Those policies include:

Domestic Partner Benefits including extending insurance coverage, funeral leave, parental leave, sick leave and leave of absence to domestic partners and their children. Domestic partners may be of the same or opposite sex.

 Salary “Gross-Up” to eliminate the inequitable additional costs faced by employees whose same-sex domestic partner is covered under Quarles & Brady’s health insurance plan. The policy creates a level playing field for all employees, consistent with the firm’s commitment to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace.

Minority Liaisons who serve as a second mentor, beyond the one assigned through the formal mentoring program, and serve as a voice for diverse associates from the employee’s first day until they reach partnership. The program is designed to foster an environment that encourages associates of historically underrepresented backgrounds to build careers with Quarles & Brady.

Diversity and Inclusion Councils tasked with encouraging a high degree of inclusion, involvement and education among the lawyers and entire staff. Diversity and Inclusion Councils facilitate cultural learning activities, organize celebrations, develop diversity training and champion internal communications.

“One of the key things I have to do as Chairman is to make sure that every person here, no matter what his or her job title may be, feels personally empowered in this organization.  If you’re going to be a different kind of organization, you have to understand the value of people.” - John W. Daniels, Jr., Chairman of Quarles & Brady LLP and one of the National Law Journal’s “50 Most Influential Minority Lawyers in America”

 Quarles & Brady will be honored at the Gala on Sat., March 24, beginning at 5:30 PM at the Phoenix Civic Plaza, North Ballroom. In addition to the award ceremony, there will be fine dining and entertainment as well as a chance to win items donated by the generous Phoenix community at a silent auction.

Three awardees include lesbian, transgender and allied women.

PHOENIX—At the 2012 Human Rights Campaign Phoenix Gala, the organization’s biggest event of the year, three women will be commended for their contributions to the LGBT community as recipients of the HRC Individual Equality Award.

Dr. Rebecca Allison, Angela Hughey and Nicole Stanton represent the diversity of the support of gay rights—whether a transgender person, lesbian or allied individual, they all have contributed immensely to the LGBT community.

This year will mark the organization’s eighth annual celebration, bringing together an array of local supporters to “Be a Part of Equality,” the 2012 gala’s theme. Allison, Stanton and Hughey will be honored at the gala on Sat., March 24, beginning at 5:30 PM at the Phoenix Civic Plaza, North Ballroom. Along with the award ceremony, there will be fine dining and entertainment. There will also be chances to win exciting items donated by the generous Phoenix community at a silent auction.

OVERVIEW OF AWARD RECIPIENTS:

Dr. Rebecca Allison

Allison, a Mississippi native, moved her cardiology practice to Arizona after deciding to begin the process of transition. After finding much success in Phoenix, Allison decided to share her story of transitioning, creating a blog about her experiences and other issues important to transgender people. The website became a resource for people looking to find a therapist to aid in transition and for those seeking to have the information changed on their birth certificates.

In 2004, Allison was elected to the Board of Directors of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association, and served as GLMA President from 2009 to 2011. In 2011, she was elected to the Board of Directors of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.

Angela Hughey

Hughey is the co-founder and President of ONE Community, an interactive web and events community for gay, lesbian and allied individuals and businesses. Her rich background in media has helped her succeed in uniting the LGBT community. Past positions include co-founder and president of Filling the Gap, a home entertainment company that focused on LGBT programming for home video markets; vice president of acquisitions/national sales for Spectrum Entertainment; sales manager for Desert Mountain Media; a position at Clear Channel with a focus on Hispanic outreach; and as Director of Sales and Marketing at Latino Perspectives.

Hughey has won awards for her work as an independent filmmaker and was recently inducted into Echo Magazine’s Hall of Fame. She has sat as chair on many committees and boards dedicated to supporting LGBT and Hispanic issues.

Nicole Stanton

Stanton is a well-respected member of the Phoenix law community and is partner at Quarles and Brady LLP. A graduate of University of Arizona, she is listed in Best Lawyers of America’s 2012 edition for malpractice law. Stanton is a distinguished lecturer, author and activist, with many contributions to the Phoenix community.

As the wife of Mayor Greg Stanton, she has adopted an agenda of her own—launching an anti-bullying initiative. The issue is close to her, as her brother was gay and bullied in high school. Though he was not out at the time, football players beat him for displaying effeminate mannerisms and asking for funds for the arts. She is concerned about the rise of cyberbullying and its growing effect on children.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Nation’s Largest Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Civil Rights Organization’s

Annual Event to Take Place Saturday, March 24th

PHOENIX AZ- The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is pleased to announce the 8th Annual

HRC Arizona Gala Dinner will take place on Saturday, March 24, 2012. HRC Arizona is the local

committee of HRC, the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights organization. The theme of this year’s annual

event is “Be a Part of Equality”.

The 2012 Gala is an annual celebration that brings entertainment, dignitaries, business leaders and

members of the community together, with a pledge of achieving fundamental fairness and equality for

all. The annual gala is the largest fundraiser of the year for HRC Arizona. Attendees will enjoy a

memorable evening complete with fine dining, a silent auction, awards and honorary guests. The

festivities begin at 5:30 PM at the Phoenix Civic Plaza, North Ballroom. Information about

sponsorships, donations and tickets is available at www.hrcazdinner.org.

To attend the 8th Annual HRC Arizona Gala Dinner, visit www.boxofficetickets.com/hrc for tickets or

call 800-494-8497. Individual tickets are $200. Student tickets are available for $100 with a school ID.

There are currently opportunities to participate in the dinner as a Gala Table Captain. Table Captains

commit to filling their table in advance of the event and help raise awareness of the festivities by

inviting friends and colleagues to the dinner. Contact tablecaptain@hrcarizona.org for details. Visit

phoenix.hrc.org for more information about HRC Arizona and www.hrcazdinner.org for updates about

the dinner.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian,

gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end

discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and

equality for all.

HRC ARIZONA GALA TO FEATURE STELLAR SPEAKER AND ENTERTAINMENT LINE UP

PHOENIX, AZ— HRC Arizona is proud to announce a stellar speaker line up for its annual gala dinner. The event will be held at the Phoenix Convention Center on Saturday, March 19, 2011 starting at 5:30 pm and will support lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community and the work of the Human Rights Campaign. Tickets to the event and additional information are available at www.hrcazdinner.org

The annual jubilant dinner and awards event is the biggest fundraiser for HRC in Arizona each year.  “It is where friends, family, business and community are recognized for their commitment to the mission to achieve fair and equal treatment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community” states Claudine M Sanchez, Gala co-chair.

As well as addressing the serious issue of LGBT equality, it is also a fun filled celebration. “Our 7^th Annual HRC Arizona Gala is the must attend LGBT event in the state each year. The night is full of passion and motivation—on one hand looking at our achievements—such as the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell—and on the other the HRC mission to fully actualize LGBT equality” says Patrick Gamble who serves with Claudine M Sanchez as co-chair.

Announcing the HRC Arizona Gala Dinner Line-up

ANA ORTIZ – Most notably known as Hilda Suarez from ABC’s hit comedy Ugly Betty, Ana Ortiz is an award-winning actress, proud mother and a vocal advocate for LGBT rights. Among her many accomplishments and accolades, Ortiz will receive the 2011 Ally for Equality award at the HRC Arizona Dinner. The Ally for Equality Award recognizes the outstanding efforts of those outside the LGBT community who dedicate time, energy, spirit and whole-hearted commitment to better the lives of LGBT people.

LINDA ELLIOTT – HRC will honor Linda Elliott with the 2011 Individual Equality Award which honors people whose commitment, guidance and leadership are transformational in the mission to achieve fair and equal treatment for the LGBT community. From acting as the driving force and founding member of HRC Arizona to serving as a long-time member of the board of Body Positive/Southwest Center for Aids, Linda Elliott is one of the hardest-working and most recognizable faces in the Phoenix LGBT community. It is because of Elliott’s pioneering efforts on behalf of HRC and the entire LGBT community in Arizona that she will be honored with the prestigious award.

CONGRESSMAN JARED POLIS – Openly gay Congressman Jared Polis represents Colorado’s second congressional district. He currently serves on the House Education and Labor Committee, Judiciary Committee, and the Rules Committee. He is a charter member and vice-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Coalition, the Chair of the Immigration task force of the Progressive Caucus, and a member of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. We are thrilled to have him at our event as well as his support in Congress.

JUDY SHEPARD — In October 1998, Judy and Dennis Shepard lost their 21 year-old son, Matthew, to a murder motivated by anti-gay hate. Matthew’s death moved many thousands of people around the world to attend vigils and rallies in his memory. Determined to prevent others from suffering their son’s fate, Judy and Dennis decided to turn their grief into action and established the Matthew Shepard Foundation to carry on Matthew’s legacy. The Foundation is dedicated to working toward the causes championed by Matthew during his life: social justice, diversity awareness & education, and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

More information about Judy Shepard and the foundation can be found at:

http://www.matthewshepard.org/our-story/boards

ERIC ALVA – As an openly gay retired Marine, Eric Alva is a champion in the fight against “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” In 2003, Alva’s unit was deployed to the Middle East and was among the first to cross the border from Kuwait into Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Three hours into the ground war Alva triggered a landmine that left him with a broken left leg, broken right arm and a badly injured right leg that eventually had to be amputated. He was the first American wounded in the war and was the war’s first Purple Heart recipient. After retiring from the Marines, Eric decided to be true to himself.  He came out of the closet and joined HRC as the national spokesperson on DADT repeal.  On Dec. 22, 2010, Alva stood over the right shoulder of President Obama as he signed into law the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

Eric is a dear friend to HRC and we are honored to have him deliver a special message at the dinner.

JOE SOLMONESE – Joe Solmonese is the president of the Human Rights Campaign. Under Joe’s leadership, HRC has been an effective, strategic and creative force in LGBT rights advocacy. Joe’s mission is to promote a better life for all of America’s LGBT people and their families by making inroads not only in legislatures, but in workplaces, communities, religious congregations, schools, universities and media outlets. Solmonese is one of the most sought-after political voices in progressive politics today.

DANIEL HERNANDEZ , HONORED GUEST – Daniel Hernandez, an openly gay University of Arizona student and an intern to Gabriel Giffords has been hailed as a national hero for his role in the assistance he provided the congresswoman during the horrific Tucson shootings last month.  At 20, he is a political veteran. He volunteered for Hillary Clinton’s campaign, and as a volunteer helped Giffords get re-elected in 2008.  He has also served as a campaign manager for a state representative and teaches young people how to run effective races. The skill that may have counted most, however, was the first aid he learned as part of a certified nurses’ assisting program. It gave him the knowledge to provide temporary medical care to Giffords and is credited with helping to save her life.

ENTERTAINMENT: MATT ANNECHARICO – Phoenix native Matt Annecharico has gone on to become one of America’s rising stars since bursting into the music scene in 2004. His re-released version of the popular Michael Jackson song “You Are Not Alone,” is donating all profits to The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crises and suicide prevention efforts among LGBTQ youth. To coincide with the re-release of the song Annecharico’s team created the website, www.YouAreNotAloneProject.com , where people can post their coming out stories and words of encouragement.

ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN - The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

PHOENIX, AZ — HRC Arizona has announced a stellar speaker line up for its annual dinner and Gala. The event will be held at the Phoenix Convention Center on Saturday, March 19, 2011 starting at 5:30 pm. Tickets to the event and additional information is available at www.hrcazdinner.org

ANA ORTIZ
Most notably known as Hilda Suarez from ABC’s hit comedy Ugly Betty, Ana Ortiz is an award-winning actress, proud mother and a vocal advocate for LGBT rights. Among her many accomplishments and accolades, Ortiz has earned ALMA and Imagen awards for her work on the Golden Globe award-winning Ugly Betty. She also has recurring roles on ABC’s acclaimed Boston Legal, FX’s Over There, NBC’s Kristin and as star of the ABC series A.U.S.A.

In addition to speaking at the event, HRC will honor Ana Ortiz with the 2011 Ally for Equality award. The Ally for Equality Award recognizes the outstanding efforts of those who dedicate time, energy, spirit and whole-hearted commitment to better the lives of LGBT people. This award is given to allies outside the LGBT community who stand up on behalf of equality for all Americans. Recipients have shown a commitment to making America a place where LGBT people can be open, honest and safe at home, at work, in the community and in the media. The awards presented at the Human Rights Campaign gala dinner are the highest honor the organization bestows in the area of achieving equality for LGBT people.

LINDA ELLIOTT
In addition to the Ally Equality Award, HRC will honor Linda Elliott with the 2011 Individual Equality Award.  From acting as the driving force and founding member of HRC Arizona to serving as a long time member of the board of Body Positive/Southwest Center for Aids, Linda Elliott is one of the hardest-working and most recognizable faces in the Phoenix LGBT community. It is because of Elliott’s pioneering efforts on behalf of HRC and the entire LGBT community in Arizona that she will be honored with the prestigious award.

The HRC Arizona Individual Equality Award honors people whose commitment, guidance and leadership are transformational in the mission to achieve fair and equal treatment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

CONGRESSMAN JARED POLIS
Openly gay Congressman Jared Polis represents Colorado’s second congressional district. He currently serves on the House Education and Labor Committee, Judiciary Committee, and the Rules Committee. He is a charter member and vice-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Coalition, the Chair of the Immigration task force of the Progressive Caucus, and a member of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee.

He is also a successful innovator and entrepreneur. He has founded several successful Internet companies, including Proflowers.com and bluemountain.com. He was named Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2000.

More information about Jared Polis can be found at http://polis.house.gov/Biography/presskit.htm

JUDY SHEPARD
In October 1998, Judy and Dennis Shepard lost their 21 year-old son, Matthew, to a murder motivated by anti-gay hate. Matthew’s death moved many thousands of people around the world to attend vigils and rallies in his memory. Determined to prevent others from suffering their son’s fate, Judy and Dennis decided to turn their grief into action and established the Matthew Shepard Foundation to carry on Matthew’s legacy. The Foundation is dedicated to working toward the causes championed by Matthew during his life: social justice, diversity awareness & education, and equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

More information about Judy Shepard can be found at http://www.matthewshepard.org/our-story/boards

JOE SOLMONESE
Joe Solmonese is the president of the national HRC organization. Under Joe Solmonese’s leadership, the Human Rights Campaign has been an effective, strategic and creative force in LGBT rights advocacy. Solmonese’s mission is to promote a better life for all of America’s LGBT people and their families by making inroads not only in legislatures, but in workplaces, communities, religious congregations, schools, universities and media outlets. Solmonese is one of the most sought-after political voices in progressive politics today.

More information about Joe Solmonese and the national HRC organization can be found at www.hrc.org

The annual jubilant dinner and awards event is the biggest fundraiser for HRC in Arizona each year.  “It is where friends, family, business and community are recognized for their commitment to the mission to achieve fair and equal treatment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community” states Claudine M Sanchez, Gala co-chair.

As well as addressing the serious issue of LGBT equality, it is also a fun filled celebration. “Our 7^th Annual HRC Arizona Gala is the must attend LGBT event in the state each year. The night is full of passion and motivation—on one hand looking at our achievements—such as the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell—and on the other the HRC mission to fully actualize LGBT equality” says Patrick Gamble who serves with Claudine M Sanchez as co-chair.

ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN - The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

SAVE THE DATE!

The Phoenix HRC Steering Committee and Gala Co-chairs Claudine M. Sanchez & Patrick Gamble invite you to the 7^th Annual Arizona Human Rights Campaign Gala Dinner.

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Phoenix Convention Center – North Ballroom
100 N. 3rd Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Don’t miss the chance to be part of a memorable celebration of fine dining, entertainment, an extraordinary silent auction and important guest speakers.

Dress: Festive/Black Tie Optional

Regular Price $200.00

Student $100.00 (valid student ID required at registration)

AZ Federal Club Member $75.00

Purchase Your Tickets Today! or call Box Office Tickets at 800-494-8497

For more information please contact Claudine M. Sanchez & Patrick Gamble at 407-697-4589 or email dinner@hrcarizona.org.

Interested in becoming a Corporate Sponsor?

Download the 2011 Sponsorship Brochure, and Contact André St.Pierre at 602-722-5777 or andre@hrcarizona.org

PHOENIX, AZ—Human Rights Campaign (HRC) will formally present the coveted 2010 HRC Arizona Corporate Equality Award to Univision, with particular recognition for Univision’s KTVW-TV Channel 33 in Phoenix, at the 6^th Annual HRC Arizona “Together” Gala on Saturday, March 20, 2010.

The recipient, Univision Communications Inc., is the leading Spanish-language media company in the United States with multiple media assets that inform, entertain and connect the Hispanic community.  Neil Guiliano, former GLAAD President, will be presenting the HRC Corporate Equality Award to Univision.  Tickets to the dinner and award ceremony are available at www.hrc.org/boxoffice or by calling 800-494-8497.

Univision has distinguished itself with positive portrayal of gay and lesbian characters throughout their Novella offerings.  They have received 12 nominations for GLAAD Media Awards including one award for the groundbreaking October 2009 “Coming Out Day” video produced in partnership with HRC Arizona.  They also hosted a phone bank staffed by HRC volunteers to answer questions from viewers during the broadcast of nominated video which includes a moving interview with Ernesto Ortiz and his mother, Rosa Urrutia, sharing the coming out experience between mother and son.

“Univision is a notable media leader in the US and a representative model of the HRC Arizona Corporate Equality Award through their demonstrated commitment to fair and equal treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees, consumers and investors,” said Linda Elliott, board of director of the HRC and co-chair of HRC Public Policy Committee.

The 2010 Together Gala is the largest fundraiser of the year for HRC Arizona that brings together business leaders, entertainers, special dignitaries and community members to celebrate human rights and the LGBT community.  The festivities begin at 5:30 PM at the newly renovated Phoenix Convention Center, North Ballroom. Details about sponsorships and special auction donations along with ticket information for groups, businesses, individuals, friends and family can be found at www.hrcazdinner.org.

PHOENIX, AZ—Human Rights Campaign (HRC) will present the Ally for Equality Award to Broadway, film, television and voice-over star Marissa Jaret Winokur at the upcoming 6^th Annual HRC Arizona “Together” Gala.

The 2003 Tony-Award “Best Actress in a Musical” winner is also HRC’s special guest at the annual dinner and awards celebration taking place at the Phoenix Convention Center, North Ballroom beginning at 5:30 PM on Saturday, March 20, 2010.  Tickets to dinner and awards ceremony can be purchased at www.hrcazdinner.org or by calling 800-494-8497.

Ms. Winokur is a celebrated talent with various industry awards.  She is often recognized for her famed theatre lead roles in “Hair Spray”, “Happy Days”, “Grease” and “Hair”.  She was a national favorite for her extraordinary performances on “Dancing with the Stars” during the 2008-2009 season. She has been in a variety of films and on multiple television shows as a lead and supporting actress.  Her impressive resume includes work with famed directors including Sam Mendes in “American Beauty” and the Farrelly Brothers as a lead actress in the movie “Fever Pitch”.  http://www.officialmarissajaretwinokur.com/

The Ally for Equality Award recognizes the outstanding efforts of those who dedicate time, energy, spirit and whole-hearted commitment to better the lives of LGBT people. This award is given to allies outside the LGBT community who stand up on behalf of equality for all Americans. Recipients have shown a commitment to making America a place where LGBT people can be open, honest and safe at home, at work, in the community and in the media. The awards presented at the Human Rights Campaign gala dinner are the highest honor the organization bestows in the area of achieving equality for LGBT people.

The annual jubilant dinner and awards event is the biggest fundraiser for HRC in Arizona each year.  It is the foremost annual celebration where friends, family, business and community are recognized for their commitment to the mission to achieve fair and equal treatment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

“The Together gala is a gathering of amazing guests, award winners and topped by our featured artiste Marissa Jaret Winokur,” said Nathan Treanor, HRC Arizona Gala Dinner co-chair, “Our 6^th Annual HRC Arizona Gala is a must-attend celebration and we look forward to sharing our passion and motivation with the Arizona community as we continue our mission to fully actualize LGBT equality.”

Attendees will enjoy an unforgettable evening of fine dining, a silent auction, and inspiring guest speakers.  HRC will also be presenting the 2010 HRC Individual Equality Awards to the forefathers of Arizona human rights and equality movement, William “Bill” A. Orovan, Bill MacDonald, F. William “Bill” Sheppard, Bill Lewis and William “Bill” M. Hardin at the annual gala.  The 2010 HRC Corporate Equality Award will be given to the leading Spanish-language media success Univision.

Allyson Robinson, Associate Director of Diversity of HRC is the featured speaker.  She leads the organization and its volunteer base in promoting awareness of transgender issues and HRC’s commitment to transgender equality and inclusion.  Further guest information and ticket details are available at  www.hrcazdinner.org.

PHOENIX, AZ—Human Rights Campaign (HRC) will make history by recognizing five remarkable Arizonans at the 6^th Annual HRC Arizona “Together” Gala on Saturday, March 20, 2010. Unlike years past with only one Individual Equality Award recipient, in 2010 HRC Arizona will recognize five extraordinary individuals that are known as the fathers of the present-day LGBT community in Arizona.

Collectively and more intimately they are known as “The Bills”. “The Bills” have been at the forefront of every major LGBT issue and organization in Arizona since the mid 1980’s individually and as a group. These organizations included groups vital to the community such as the Arizona Aids project, Act Up, and the Arizona Human Rights Fund. They were so entrenched in the community that when something needed to done to advance the cause of the LGBT rights, the cry was simply “call the Bills”. Bill McDonald aptly terms the group as “Fundraising Central” for the monies they helped to raise for over the years that went to these groups as well as the state Democratic party.

“We are thrilled to present ground-breaking activists, supporters and loyal community members that stand out for their dedication to achieve equality for all,” said Nathan Treanor, co-chair HRC Arizona Gala Dinner. “The first ever multi-winner Individual Equality Awards guarantees a memorable celebration that you can not miss!”

F. William “Bill” Sheppard has helped shape the arts community in the Valley and serves as champion for HIV-positive individuals. Attorney and author, Bill Sheppard co-hosted the first openly LGBT political fundraiser in Arizona to elect Terry Goddard as Mayor of Phoenix. He co-founded AIDS Project Arizona (formerly Arizona AIDS Fund–Trust) and served on the Board of Trustees for the Arizona Theatre Company from 1986-1997 and again in 1999–2005. He is currently the board chair of Arizona Action for the Arts.

Bill Lewis, lifelong Arizona resident and philanthropist, is one of the state’s leading political activists and LGBT advocates visible through his leadership and support of endeavors like the Arizona Human Rights Fund, the national Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund and Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS. Lewis and his longtime life partner Rick Underwood provided the financial support for the Arizona Together campaign to defeat a statewide constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, which could have denied thousands of domestic partners access to benefits.

William “Bill” M. Hardin, attorney at Osborn Maledon representing entrepreneurial clients in business transactions and corporate governance matters, is co-founder of Equality Arizona and the Arizona Human Rights Fund, Inc. He has received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Human Rights. He is commissioner of the City of Phoenix Arts Commission and past chair of Art in Public Places Committee. Hardin is on the Institutional Review Board of the Arizona Heart Institute. He serves as director, of the Arizona Economic Resource Organization (AERO) and co-chair of both the Governor’s Council on Innovation and Technology (GCIT) and GCIT Technology Transfer Committee.

The 2010 Together Gala is an annual celebration that brings friends, family, business and community. The annual dinner event is the largest fundraiser of the year for HRC Arizona with special entertainment, a magnificent silent auction, extraordinary awards and invited dignitaries. The celebration begins at 5:30 PM at the Phoenix Convention Center, North Ballroom. Information about sponsorships, donations and tickets is available at www.hrcazdinner.org.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA—January 20, 2010—Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is pleased to announce the 6th Annual HRC Arizona Gala Dinner will take place on Saturday, March 20, 2010. HRC Arizona is the local committee of HRC, the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights organization. The theme of this year’s annual event is “Together,” representing how collectively a community has made progress in the past year, yet faces a future that requires commitment to work together to end lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) discrimination.

The 2010 Together Gala is an annual celebration that brings entertainment, dignitaries, business leaders and members of the community together, with a pledge of achieving fundamental fairness and equality for all. The annual gala is the largest fundraiser of the year for HRC Arizona. Attendees will enjoy a memorable evening complete with fine dining, a silent auction, awards and honorary guests. The festivities begin at 5:30 PM at the newly renovated Phoenix Civic Plaza, North Ballroom. Information about sponsorships, donations and tickets is available at www.hrcazdinner.org.

In recognition of activism and achievements made in pursuing equality for the LGBT community, Neil Guiliano, former GLAAD President, will be presenting the HRC Arizona Corporate Equality Award and Attorney General Terry Goddard will be presenting the HRC Arizona Individual Equality Awards.

“We are excited about the event we have planned this year as we centered on a theme that truly represents our commitment and dedication to work as one to end discrimination,” said Nathan Treanor, co-chair HRC Arizona Gala Dinner. “We have planned a spectacular evening that is certain to be a memorable occasion. Mark your calendars and get your tickets today to ensure you have a seat at the table!”

Allyson Robinson, Associate Director of Diversity is a featured guest speaker at the gala. Ms. Robinson leads HRC and its volunteer base in promoting awareness of transgender issues and to make certain that all program areas demonstrate measurable commitment to transgender equality and inclusion.

“Together is a true celebration of community, diversity and commitment that enables us to raise funds critical to support the HRC mission and progress toward our ultimate goal of equality for all,” said Claudine Sanchez, co-chair of the HRC Arizona Gala Dinner. “We are thankful to all the dedicated volunteers, our generous sponsors, artists and entertainers that are working to make our annual gala unforgettable.”

The 6th Annual Gala will again host a silent auction featuring an exciting array of exquisite merchandise, luxury services and astounding art from local and national artists and businesses. Donations are showcased at the event and the auction preview party. To inquire about donating your products or services, or participating in the HRC Arizona Art Auction contact auction@hrcarizona.org

To attend the 6th Annual HRC Arizona Gala Dinner, visit www.boxofficetickets.com/hrc for tickets or call 800-494-8497. Individual tickets are $200. Student tickets are available for $100 with a school ID. Corporate sponsorships also are available.

There are currently opportunities to participate in the dinner as a Gala Table Captain. Table Captains select their table in advance of the event and help raise awareness of the festivities by inviting friends and colleagues to the dinner. Contact tablecaptain@hrcarizona.org for details. Visit phoenix.hrc.org for more information about HRC Arizona and www.hrcazdinner.org for updates about the dinner.

ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN – The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. HRC seeks to improve the lives of LGBT Americans by advocating for equal rights and benefits in the workplace, ensuring families are treated equally under the law and increasing public support among all Americans through innovative advocacy, education and outreach programs. HRC works to secure equal rights for LGBT individuals and families at the federal and state levels by lobbying elected officials, mobilizing grassroots supporters, educating Americans, investing strategically to elect fair-minded officials and partnering with other LGBT organizations.

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