HRC Florida Gala 2025: A Night of Pride, Purpose, and Progress
Johnny Sibilly & Arianna Lint ( CEO & Founder of Arianna’s Center)
On March 15th, the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach came alive with celebration, unity, and purpose as the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) hosted its highly anticipated 2025 Gala. With a packed room of advocates, allies, and community leaders, the evening was a resounding success, filled with heartfelt speeches, powerful storytelling, and a shared commitment to equality.
This year’s honorees included actor and activist Johnny Sibilly, who received the Visibility Award for his tireless representation of LGBTQ+ and Latinx identities in Hollywood and beyond. Known for his roles in “Queer As Folk,” “POSE,” and “HACKS,” Sibilly continues to use his platform to uplift queer voices and challenge stereotypes with authenticity and humor.
Also honored was Jennifer Solomon, recipient of the Community Award, whose unwavering dedication to LGBTQ+ youth and families through Equality Florida and national advocacy has made a profound impact on school policies and parental support networks across the state.
The evening was hosted by Brandon Wolf, HRC’s National Press Secretary and a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ rights and gun safety reform. His words reminded attendees of the importance of resilience and community in the face of adversity.
Editor in Chief of HOWM, Manu Palacios, was honored to attend the gala as a special guest of Arianna’s Center, joining a table of advocates committed to creating safer, more inclusive spaces for trans and queer people of color. The event not only celebrated progress but also fueled the ongoing fight for visibility, safety, and equality for all.
From the elegant welcome reception to the moving dinner program, the HRC Gala 2025 left guests inspired and empowered to keep pushing the movement forward—together.
