GLIDE’s Young Professionals Committee turned out over 200 GLIDE supporters to the Pheonix Hotel last Friday to honor the awardees of the Rev. Cecil Williams and Janice Mirikitani Legacy Awards. Every year, not only does the Summer Gala raise money for GLIDE’s vital programs and services, but it honors leaders who are carrying Jan & Cecil’s torch forward.
Roberto Y Hernandez, the Receipient of the Rev. Cecil Williams Legacy Award, reminisced during his acceptance speech about the way Rev. Cecil mentored him when he was a young activist. One of his fondest memories was how Cecil insisted on a donation of 200 front-row seats for low-income people when he was invited to a concert.
Renowned for his dedicated organizing for youth education, food security, and housing security in the Mission, Roberto also had a warning for the audience. “They have a war against Latinos in this country right now. They are kidnapping our people!” he said. Then he urged the audience to “make ten phone calls this weekend,” urging their friends and family to get involved in GLIDE and other organizations that fight for the marginalized.
But despite the serious purpose of the event, the evening was far from solemn. There was also drinking, dancing, laughing, talking, a silent disco, and a rousing performance from the Glide Ensemble.
We were blessed with remarks from several government leaders, including State Senator Scott Weiner, and Assemblymember Matt Haney. They commented on the importance of GLIDE and the Tenderloin in the fight for San Francisco’s legacy of diversity, inclusion, and love.
Until next year, folks!