Yesterday I went to an event sponsored by GLAAD called “Top Chef Invasion.” The event was hosted by Fran Drescher (The Nanny, Happily Divorced) at the home of her ex-husband Peter Marc Jacobson - hence the “divorced.” 

The food was mouth-watering, obviously, and then event itself was impressive. Celebrities, chefs, activists, each got on the microphone and talked about the great work that GLAAD does against discrimination in the media. The thing that really impressed me, however, was that many of them (especially Fran) talked about a “greater understanding of differences” and a “country-wide movement towards Equality w/ a newfound respect for one another.” I think this is especially true of the younger generation, and it was wonderful to hear her put such an idea into words - along w that high-pitched laugh that has made her famous. Lol

Another host for the event was Lou Diamond Phillips, whom I love as an actor and was stoked to hear him take the stage and speak about LGBT Equality and Civil Liberties. 

It was an awesome time and a great reminder that at this VERY moment, there are thousands that are making their marks and using their voices/abilities to make things better for the coming generations. #Applause

Thanks for reading. 

Saturday was a very exciting day for me - the annual “Life Out Loud” event in the back lot (New York Streets) of Paramount Studios. It benefits “Lifeworks,” a program assisting at-risk youth in Los Angeles, specifically LGBT youth. Last year at this very same event, I was honored to receive the “Courage Award” for my work w/ Non-Profits and Youth after the MTV stuff. It was particularly amazing because my mother was able to see me on stage giving a speech, after being presented the award by a friend that I love and admire for her work (& activism), Pauley Perrette. 

(Pauley presenting me with the award. I tackled her w/ a hug on stage…and held that hug to procrastinate the impending speech I had to give.)

THIS YEAR is was very honored to pass the torch and present that very same award to Lee Hirsch (the Director of ‘Bully.’) I loved this documentary for many reasons, and to be the one to pass on this award to a man whose work has changed lives - was truly beyond words. 

Also in attendance was my friend (& Alpaca Rancher, yep) Erin Murphy. Erin played young Tabitha Stephens on the classic sitcom “Bewitched,” and is also involved with many Non-Profits herself. 

(Erin, Lee and myself right after Lee received the 2012 “Courage Award.”)

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to be the “Master of Ceremonies” for an event put on by the Stonewall Young Democrats in honor of Harvey Milk. I had never been a Master of Ceremonies before, but I guess it’s a very “Survivor macho makes me think of Gladiator” way of saying I introduced political speakers. The event itself was incredible, w/ many amazing guests at the home of Lisa Ling and Dr. Paul Song. 

One of the best moments of the afternoon was meeting and introducing Stuart Milk, the nephew of the late Harvey Milk (Equal Rights Pioneer) and founder of the Harvey Milk Foundation. I’ll admit, I geek’d out a little. 

(Photo by FayesVision/WENN.com)

An event to celebrate an amazing man, benefiting an amazing charity. Sunday, May 20th at the home of Lisa Ling and Dr. Paul Song. ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND! 

For more info visit: http://stonewallyoungdems.org/archives/2276