LA PRIDE LGBT Pride in West Hollywood - 2013 LA PRIDE HONOREES
One of the most special aspects of LA Pride is our annual Honorees Program. This is the recognition of the people, organizations, businesses and groups that have made extraordinary contributions to the LGBT community—here in L.A., at the national level or even around the world. In addition to being in the LA Pride parade on Sunday, June 9, 2013, our honorees are celebrated at a number of exclusive pre-Pride events and participate in all media opportunities.
With a demonstrated commitment to greater visibility and understanding, advocacy, human rights, empowerment, marriage equality and service, Christopher Street West is very excited to present the 2013 slate of LA PRIDE Honorees:
PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
Mark Takano
U.S. Congressman
35 years ago, in his famed ‘give them hope speech’, Harvey Milk said, “And you’ve got to elect gay people, so that young child, and the thousands like that child, know that there is hope for a better world….” Congressman Takano’s election to the United States Congress as the first openly gay person of color in this role offers hope to the next generation of LGBT Americans. Congressman Takano has over 20 years or public service in and around his community in Southern California. As a teacher, a school board member and now elected official, Congressman Takano has and will remain a tireless advocate for better education.
The Person Of The Year Award is embodied by an individual who, for the past year, has had an astounding impact working for the betterment of the entire LGBT community.