HRC to honor ‘Glee’ star at upcoming Atlanta gala

HRC said Morrison “has used his platform to publicly support LGBT equality.”

“He played Prop. 8 plaintiff Paul Katami in the west coast premiere of Dustin Lance Black’s play, 8, in 2012.  The Ally for Equality Award recognizes the outstanding efforts of those who dedicate time, energy, spirit and whole-hearted commitment to better the lives of LGBT people,” the press release noted. “This award is given to allies outside the LGBT community who stand up on behalf of equality for all Americans.”

The annual Atlanta gala also includes the presentation of two local awards, the Dan Bradley Humanitarian Award and the Leon Allen & Winston Johnson Community Service Award.

This year, the humanitarian award goes to Joining Hearts, which raises funds to help people with HIV with housing needs. The organization is best known for its annual Joining Hearts pool party at Piedmont Park.

The community service award will go to Michael Shutt, director of Emory University’s Office of LGBT Life.

“Our 2013 Award winners represent what is wonderful about our community here in Atlanta. Joining Hearts and Michael have spent years to better the lives of our LGBT community —a nd for this we say thank you. We are thrilled to celebrate our two award winners at our annual dinner and silent auction,” said Kaitlin Porter, 2013 dinner co-chair, in a press release announcing the awards.

 

Top photo: Matthew Morrison, pictured center right, will be honored at the Atlanta Human Rights Campaign’s Gala Dinner May 4 (publicity photo)