The Los Angeles LGBT Center 48th Annual Gala Vanguard Awards

“Many of you know that often at this gala, I have delivered righteous political speeches,” said L.A. LGBT Center CEO Lorri L. Jean at the Center’s annual Gala Vanguard Awards, which took place this past weekend at the Beverly Hilton. “No president in 25 years has escaped my critique. This year, of all years, I have felt the pressure to fulfill that expectation—and no president or administration has ever given me so much material.” Jean’s sentiments brought thunderous applause among the crowd, who sat for dinner inside the ballroom of the Los Angeles staple hotel. Jimmy Kimmel hosted the annual gala, introducing presenters Shonda Rhimes and Mark Bradford, who presented the Rand Schrader Distinguished Achievement Award to Valerie Jarrett and the Vanguard Award to Ariel Emanuel, respectively.