On June 17, 2025, a sold-out crowd of LGBTQ+ legal professionals, students, and allies joined us to celebrate the advocacy work that was undertaken this past year and reinvigorate our community in preparation for more.  Our 2025 Gala brought together dozens of sponsors and was sold out nearly two weeks early.  The New England Aquarium provided an amazing backdrop to our Wizard of Oz themed gala, where our attendees were able to explore exhibits and enjoy performances from local talent: Coleslaw, MT Hart, Ria Lystic, Dottie Ave, and Regina Jackson. 

A key highlight of the evening was the inspiring lineup of our plenary speaker, Sunu Chandy, and our awardees listed below.  Each of our speakers shared powerful stories and urgent calls to action to motivate us for the upcoming work in this difficult year. Their remarks underscored critical issues facing our community, particularly the attacks against our trans and nonbinary siblings, and the importance of inclusive policy reform. Our speakers and awardees reminded all in attendance of the work still ahead and the strength found in collective advocacy.

Our gala not only celebrated progress but also reinforced a shared commitment to justice and visibility. As guests departed, the energy in the room was one of hope, renewed dedication, and the unwavering belief that together, change is not only possible, but inevitable.

Award Recipients:

Elected Official of Distinction: Congressman William R. Keating

Pioneer Spirit Award: Elyse Cherry

Kevin Larking Memorial Award for Public Service: Tre'Andre Carmel Valentine 

MBA Community Service Award: Matthew V.P. McTygue

Law School Chapter of the Year: Northeastern University School of Law Queer Caucus

2025 Alec Gray, Jr. Scholarship: Gordon Chan

 

See the pictures from our event at the link below! If reposting, please credit our photographer, Brooke Seminick Photography. 

MA LGBTQ BAR GALA by Brooke Seminick Photography