Shonda Rhimes and Lena Waithe, renowned figures in the world of television and film, are set to be celebrated by the Human Rights Campaign this year. The prestigious award will take place at the upcoming National Dinner in Washington D.C., where they will be joined by actor Matt Bomer.
Shonda Rhimes speaks onstage during the BAFTA Honours Shonda Rhimes Presented By Netflix, Delta Air Lines, And Virgin Atlantic on May 3, 2023, at the Midnight Theatre .
The Human Rights Campaign, a prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy organization dedicated to eradicating discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals and fostering a world marked by fundamental fairness and equality for all, is hosting the event in October.
Shonda Rhimes, the creative force behind hit shows such as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” and “Bridgerton,” is poised to be presented with the National Equality Award. This accolade specifically acknowledges Rhimes’ unwavering support and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.
In response to this honor, Rhimes expressed her gratitude in a statement to Variety, saying, “I am deeply honored to receive this award from an organization that tirelessly fights against oppression, exclusion, and hatred. I take pride in being an ally in this ongoing battle.”
Lena Waithe, acclaimed for her impactful works like “The Chi,” “Queen & Slim,” and “Twenties,” will be bestowed with the Visibility Award. This accolade is a tribute to LGBTQ+ leaders who authentically and openly represent their identities in all aspects of their lives.
Waithe conveyed her sentiments in a statement, emphasizing, “Centering the intersection of queerness and Blackness has been at the forefront of my work and drives me to continue to share Black queer stories for myself, my community and the world,” Waithe shared in a statement. “I am unapologetically Black, queer and a woman — telling intersectional stories that spotlight our authentic experiences is a crucial path towards a future where equal protection and equal opportunity is not a privilege, but a guarantee.”
This remarkable event is scheduled to take place on October 14th at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. It promises to be a momentous occasion celebrating the significant contributions of Shonda Rhimes, Lena Waithe, and others in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and representation.
SOURCE: thegrio.com