Approximately 160 people with an interest in securing equality and justice for Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community gathered at Dr. Stan Zuba and Eric Anderson’s home in Tavernier this past Sunday evening. Billed as a fundraiser for the non-profit civil rights group Equality Florida, the organization’s CEO Nadine Smith updated the crowd on recent achievements equality and needs while celebrated New York DJ Karin Ward and musician Dan Bern provided the musical stylings. Other special guests included Islamorada Mayor Ted Blackburn and State Representative Holly Raschein.
Raschein is sponsoring House Bill 33 to end LGBT discrimination in the workplace and housing.
“It was a super fun event,” she said. “Its all about awareness and education. When you have a diverse group like the one on Sunday night change and progress is guaranteed.”
Twenty-five thousands dollars was raised for Equality Florida through ticket sales, donations and a raffle.
“Guests made additional donations throughout the night in support of their passion for equality,” said event co-host Betsy Keteltas. “This was one of the first times in the Upper Keys where straight allies outnumbered the LGBT guests at an event for equality. The contributions were generous and inspiring.”
To learn more go to www.eqfl.org.
— Weekly Staff report
