By Percy Brown
For almost 50 years, Lambda Legal has fought for the full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people, and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, public policy advocacy, and education. On Sunday, March 27, 2022 the community will come together for Lambda Legal in Fort Lauderdale, an event to show their support for Lambda Legal’s work and celebrate the life and legacy of Lambda Legal champion Bob Avian.
Bob, a world-renowned Broadway choreographer, director, and producer, served on the Host Committee for Lambda Legal in Ft. Lauderdale and helped make it the wonderful event that it is today. He was regarded by the Lambda Legal family as a generous friend, volunteer, and donor. “Bob’s love for Lambda Legal lives on through our annual event in Ft. Lauderdale, as well as through his very generous bequest to the organization. Bob knew our work was far from being done,” said Kevin Jennings, Lambda Legal CEO.
Lambda Legal attorneys were in court in February to represent Andrew Adams in the ongoing case against the St. Johns County School Board who denied the transgender student access to the restroom that aligns with his gender identity. Lambda Legal also continues to serve as a partner to Equality Florida in the fight against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in the state. “This fight goes far beyond Florida’s border, and it is scary to see what is happening in other parts of the country,” stated Michael D. Shutt, Lambda Legal Southern Regional Director.
Lambda Legal continues to fight anti-LGBTQ+ attacks across multiple states, including
recently suing Texas Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), and other officials in the state to stop them from harassing the families of transgender youth by launching intrusive investigations of parents who support their kids and help them access lifesaving and essential gender-affirming health care.
“We are able to do our work here and across the country because of the unprecedented commitment of our supporters in Fort Lauderdale and throughout South Florida,” said Lambda Legal National Board of Directors member and event Co-Chair, Angel Burgos.
The Lambda Legal in Fort Lauderdale event will feature a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception on the lush grounds of the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens from 5-7:30 p.m. Performance by vocalist and pianist duo, Victor Valdez and Rick Leonard. Event sponsorships start at $500 and individual tickets are $150. The community may also make a gift to Lambda Legal in Bob Avian’s memory.
