Leading into Los Angeles Pride Weekend, Wendi McLendon-Covey (The Goldbergs) hosted Lambda Legal’s annual fundraising gala, the West Coast Liberty Awards, which honored Aisha Tyler, Transparent and creator Jill Soloway, and LGBTQ activist Laurie Hasencamp.
In a night that celebrates those working towards Lambda Legal’s vision of equality, McLendon-Covey opened the show with wit and humor, emphasizing Lambda Legal’s impact in the fight for equality as the Supreme Court prepares to deliver its decision on the freedom to marry for same-sex couples across the country.
Before presenting her with the Celebrity in the Spotlight Liberty Award, previous honoree Dan Bucatinsky spoke about the impact his longtime friend Tyler has had as an ally to the LGBTQ community, briefly highlighting how her work complements Lambda Legal’s mission of “making the case for equality”.
Tyler’s passion was palpable, often tearing up during her speech that garnered many cheers and a standing ovation. During her speech she told attendees: “I believe in bravery. The bravery to live one’s truth, no matter how terrifying, no matter how vilified. The bravery to choose how we will define ourselves, and to never let others do it for us”. Watch her full speech below.
