HRC dinner sets stage for election

Photo coverage at bottom of story

DEARBORN - There may have been a banquet going on in the background, but make no mistake about it, last Saturday's Human Rights Campaign 11th annual Michigan Dinner was a political rally orchestrated to convey the urgency in a critical campaign's final hours. U.S. Rep Debbie Stabenow and Karenna Gore Schiff, daughter of Vice President Al Gore, both stopped by to stir up some support. And even most of those presented with HRC Equality Awards took time out to speak to the 830 people gathered in the Dearborn Hyatt Great Lakes Ballroom about the need to get out the vote.

"I would be happy to endorse the HRC anytime," said Schiff. "But I'm especially proud to be here on the eve of the closest and most important election in 40 years."

Looking radiant and quite approachable, Schiff spoke eloquently about the importance of this election to lgbts, and did best when she steered away from her prepared speech and took her own path instead.

"Some of my closest friends and family are gay and I feel it's essential that there's presidential leadership to fight for human rights and civil rights," Schiff told BTL. "I'm very proud that both my parents stand up for gay rights and human rights and will continue to do so no matter what happens on Tuesday."

But beyond the political hoopla, the evening's keynote speaker took the audience back in time, instead of forward, and illustrated for the audience what many had probably not considered. Yolanda King, daughter of civil rights leaders the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, explained for the crowd how the gay rights movement has its roots in the struggle for civil rights.

"Certainly the cause that brings us together tonight is a reflection of the dream," said King. "The civil rights movement that I believe in thrives on unity and inclusion, and not division and exclusion."

The evening was dedicated to the memory of Ruth Ellis and George M. Fadiga, in whose honor a special award was presented to dinner co-chair June Washington. Equality Awards were also presented to Jeffrey Montgomery, for community advocacy; Rebecca McGowan for political involvement; the Big Three - Ford, DaimlerChrysler and General Motors - and their lgbt employee groups, along with United Auto Workers, for corporate/labor relations; and Rachel Crandall, for community service.