REACH LA to Honor Guillermo Diaz at Annual Celebration Gala Featuring Special Performance by Jessica Betts

Non-Profit to Pay Tribute to Community Activists and Partners While Fundraising for LA Fire Relief and Supporting Mental Health Through Creative Arts Programming

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --Tomorrow, February 15th, REACH LA, a Los Angeles nonprofit, will host its 3rd Annual Celebration Gala at Union Station honoring Guillermo Diaz alongside a distinguished group of celebrities, LGBTQIA+ leaders, and community partners. Hosted by Bob the Drag Queen and Monet X Change, the event will celebrate those making a lasting impact while raising awareness and support for REACH LA's free mental health and creative arts programs serving LGBTQ+ people of color.

The recipient of REACH LA's Pillar of Excellence Award, Guillermo Diaz, presented by his friend and Scandal co-star, Katie Lowes. Best known for his role as Huck in Scandal, Half Baked, Stonewall, and more, Diaz will be honored for upholding the LGBTQ+ community by exemplifying mastery, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring others to lead with courage and authenticity. Guillermo's work has not only enhanced queer visibility but also opportunity.

"Representation is everything, and Guillermo has been a powerful voice, ensuring LGBTQ+ voices, perspectives, and stories are seen and heard on screen," said Stephen Morales President of REACH LA. "His work brings authenticity to queer narratives and opened doors for the next generation to show up as their full selves and be part of both mainstream and queer storytelling."

REACH LA will also be honoring several other community leaders and activists, including:

• Dr. Ayanna Elliott – Public Health Champion – Recognized for her leadership in transgender healthcare and public health advocacy, Dr. Elliott has advanced trans medical resources through ViiV Healthcare, the National Black Justice Coalition, Washington State Health Department, and LGBTQ+ health equity research institutions.
• Onyx Southwest – Community Partnership Award in appreciation of their sustained and reciprocal partnership with REACH LA.
• King Jamari Amour – Dr. Stephaun E. Wallace Legacy of Hope — A celebrated figure in the ballroom scene and an advocate for LGBTQ+ arts, King Jamari Amour is being honored in loving memory of Dr. Stephaun E. Wallace for his mentorship and dedication to uplifting others.

Other honorees for REACH LA's 3rd Annual Celebration Gala include: Peppermint, Michelle Buteau, Jessica Betts, Amber Whittington (@AmbersCloset), Blair Imani, and the newest honoree Guillermo Diaz.

The gala will feature a special live performance by Artist Impact Award recipient, Jessica Betts, presented by her spouse, Niecy Nash-Betts. Guests can get a free tattoo on-site from a local artist. Funds will go towards LA wildfire recovery efforts.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.reachla.info/gala, or follow the organization on social media @reach__la, or follow the hashtag #REACHLAgala

ABOUT REACH LA
REACH LA's mission is to engage, empower, and celebrate LGBTQIA+ people of color and their communities through social enterprise, creative arts, personal development, and health and wellness. Since 1992, the organization has provided HIV prevention education, testing, mental health support, and creative arts programming, creating a safe and supportive space for queer people of color to thrive. Visit www.reachla.org or follow REACH LA on social media @reach__la.

Contact:
T-Aira Jelks
3106940895
[email protected]

SOURCE REACH LA