NEW YORK, NY – October 08, 2024 – Leading global women’s rights organization Equality Now has set the honors and tributes for their upcoming “Make Equality Reality Gala” happening on October 8th at Sony Hall in New York City. This year, the organization is thrilled to honor Ashley Judd with the inaugural Trailblazer Award and E. Jean Carroll with the Courage Award, recognizing the significant impact they have made in sharing their own experiences of sexual assault and empowering others to do the same.
In addition to the special honors, the gala will include remarks from world-renowned film director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and a special tribute in recognition of Gloria Steinem’s 90th birthday, who was critical in the founding of Equality Now 32 years ago. To round out the inspiring evening, the event will feature award-winning soul singer Beverley Knight as the headline performer, known for her R&B hits “Greatest Day,” “Get Up!,” and “Shoulda Woulda Coulda.”
“This year’s Make Equality Reality Gala celebrates the collective power of individuals creating legal and lived equality for every woman and girl. We’re thrilled to honor E. Jean Carroll and Ashley Judd, whose unwavering courage and advocacy have inspired millions. Their efforts remind us that when we stand together, we can create a society where gender equality is not just a dream, but a reality.
Equality Now’s “Make Equality Reality Gala” was created by the organization to highlight women and changemakers who are holding the line and carving a path to a more just and equal world. In addition to the honorees and tributes, the evening will feature celebrity performances, inspiring speakers, and special guests from Equality Now’s global community of activists and influentials.
Since 1992, Equality Now has tackled the most difficult barriers to gender equality, challenged ingrained cultural assumptions, and called out injustice. Past honorees include Gloria Steinem, Salma Hayek Pinault, Jane Fonda, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Margaret Atwood, Nobel Laureate Maria Ressa, Jaha Dukureh, Brisa de Angulo, Rupi Kaur and many more. The gala has also featured various feminist artists, including Meryl Streep, HAIM, Alanis Morrisette, Linda Perry, Jodie Turner-Smith, Amandla Stenberg, Amy Schumer, and Aubrey Plaza, and been host to Gucci’s annual CHIME FOR CHANGE award.