Outright International Recognized LGBTIQ Pioneers at Celebration of Courage Gala

New York, New York -  June 7, 2022, Outright International, the leading human rights organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTIQ people across the world through research-based advocacy, activism, and partnerships with the United Nations, regional human rights monitoring bodies, and civil society partners, honored LGBTIQ pioneers at its 26th Celebration of Courage Gala. An evening of inspiration, the gathering highlighted Outright’s achievements while elevating and advancing the voices of those leading the charge for LGBTIQ equality around the world. The event attracted high-level supporters who are among New York City and the world’s most influential philanthropists, industry and civic leaders, and luminaries.

This year’s honorees included feminist lesbian and academic activist Gloria Careaga, who received the prestigious Felipa De Souza Award; Procter & Gamble’s senior director of global LGBTQ+ Equality and recipient of the OutSpoken Award, Brent Miller; and artist, activist, and Pussy Riot co-founder, Nadya Tolokonnikova, who was honored with the OutStanding Award.

“We are beyond excited to meet in person and celebrate the outstanding courage, hope, and inspiration of our honorees,” noted Maria Sjödin, acting executive director of Outright International. “With commitments to advancing human rights, feminist values, and improving LGBTIQ lives, Gloria, Brent, and Nadya embody our advocacy and activism dedicated to those who are made invisible and are marginalized. We are forever grateful to them.”

FELIPA DE SOUZA AWARD

“I am very honored with the distinction that Outright has given me with the Felipa de Souza Award, not only for the meaning of the award itself–which honors the pride and courage with which Felipa faced her challenges–but also for the recognition it gives to the work and trajectory of those of us who dedicate ourselves to the defense of human rights,” said Gloria Careaga.

OUTSPOKEN AWARD

​​“It’s the stories of the LGBTIQ community that motivate and give me courage—the courage it takes all of us to show up as our authentic selves and be seen, heard—and often tested,” said Brent Miller, senior director, global LGBTQ+ equality at Procter & Gamble. “I am grateful for this honor, not because it represents me, but because it represents us, and the work we do together—and must continue to lead—to create change.”

OUTSTANDING AWARD