Celebrating Change and Empowerment: Make Equality Reality Gala 2023
By Urban Milan
October 12, 2023
October 12, 2023
Getty Images for Equality Now
In the heart of Manhattan, on October 11, 2023, a gathering of influential cultural figures, artists, and advocates came together to commemorate the strides made towards a more equitable world at the 2023 Equality Now Make Equality Reality Gala. The event took place at the exclusive venue, Gustavino's and spotlighted the multi-talented Poet, Activist, and #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Rupi Kaur, who was bestowed with the prestigious 6th Annual Changemaker Award by Gucci CHIME for Gender Equality. The award was presented by the introduction of Mona Sinha, Global Executive Director of Equality Now.
Kaur expressed her deep gratitude, saying, "I am profoundly honored to receive the 6th Annual Changemaker Award, presented by Gucci CHIME. Women's rights have been at the core of my work for the past 14 years, and this recognition underscores the transformative power of art in surmounting life's most formidable challenges. This award not only acknowledges my personal journey but also celebrates the collective voices advocating for equality, charting the course for a harmonious coexistence of all genders."
Kaur expressed her deep gratitude, saying, "I am profoundly honored to receive the 6th Annual Changemaker Award, presented by Gucci CHIME. Women's rights have been at the core of my work for the past 14 years, and this recognition underscores the transformative power of art in surmounting life's most formidable challenges. This award not only acknowledges my personal journey but also celebrates the collective voices advocating for equality, charting the course for a harmonious coexistence of all genders."
Getty Images for Equality Now
Sinha emphasized, "2.4 billion women of working age are still deprived of equal legal rights compared to men. While significant progress has been achieved, there is still an extensive journey ahead of us. Success will only be achieved through unwavering determination, patience, and collaborative efforts, all of which were exemplified by our esteemed guests who graced the Equality Now event tonight."
The gala for this year featured a remarkable live performance by Rupi herself and a thought-provoking keynote address by the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Maria Ressa. The evening was also enriched with the comedic and musical talents of Amy Schumer (virtually), Aasif Mandvi, Destiny Rogers, Maysoon Zayid, Afghan rapper Sonita Alizadeh, and other brilliant artists. In addition, the gala paid tribute to the International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11th, with a special focus on addressing the unique challenges confronting girls and promoting their empowerment and the realization of their fundamental human rights. Equality Now, a preeminent global women's rights organization, remains steadfast in its mission to employ legal mechanisms to safeguard and advance the rights of women and girls.
The gala for this year featured a remarkable live performance by Rupi herself and a thought-provoking keynote address by the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Maria Ressa. The evening was also enriched with the comedic and musical talents of Amy Schumer (virtually), Aasif Mandvi, Destiny Rogers, Maysoon Zayid, Afghan rapper Sonita Alizadeh, and other brilliant artists. In addition, the gala paid tribute to the International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11th, with a special focus on addressing the unique challenges confronting girls and promoting their empowerment and the realization of their fundamental human rights. Equality Now, a preeminent global women's rights organization, remains steadfast in its mission to employ legal mechanisms to safeguard and advance the rights of women and girls.
Getty Images for Equality Now
Among the notable guests in attendance were renowned figures like Gloria Steinem, Christine Lahti, Kathy Najimy, Sheetal Sheth, Ivana Bartoletti, Founder of Women Leading in AI, the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, Honourable Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Nije, UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Jaha Dukureh, writer Tanya Selvaratnam, journalist Erinn Haines, and International Day of the Girl spotlight Teela Samra, among others. This illustrious gathering highlighted the significance of collective efforts in championing gender equality and creating a more just world for all.
Getty Images for Equality Now
The Equality Now Gala 2023 was a profoundly inspiring event, celebrating the progress made in the fight for gender equality while acknowledging the work that lies ahead. It served as a powerful reminder that by coming together, we can create a future where women and girls are afforded equal rights, opportunities, and respect. With the spirit of unity and determination ignited during this gala, we can continue to drive social change, break down barriers, and build a more inclusive and equitable world for all. For more information on Equality Now please visit equalitynow.org.