HRC Gala 2015 at the Grand American Hotel

Here are some photographs of the 2015 HRC Gala in Salt Lake City, Utah. I was one of the event photographers and every year this party seems to get bigger and better. To see all the photos… and purchase photos visit the HRC Gala SmugMug gallery.

The HRC or Human Rights Campaign is a political organization fighting for equality and equal rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and other minority groups. On Friday the Supreme Court ruled that LGBT couples are equal under the law and cannot be denied marriage. So this years Gala was a big celebration. There is still more to be done. Suicide, violence, health, jobs, housing, and more are still issues and challenges that need to be dealt with.

Rainbow lights paint the stage

The Grand America is large and fancy location for these events. The Grand Ballroom is ginormous! I have photographed weddings and events here and the space is a challenge to photograph but also has a lot of potential.

Appetizers for the VIP party before the HRC Gala

Much credit goes to Bruce Bastian in donations and work in the HRC. The Gala used to be held at his home in Orem till the party became too large. Now the Grand America has played host for the past few years.

Bruce Bastian and partner

As an event photographer my job was to float around grabbing group shots, candids, some details, and cover the event in general. There was another photographer running a step and repeat so all the guests could buy a photo for a keepsake.

Chad Griffin and HRC supporters

Bruce Bastian adresses the HRC Gala

Chad Griffin, President of the Human Rights Commission

Among the people winning awards and commendations were several actors including Bradley Whitford of the West Wing and the movie Transparent. There was Sherri Saum of ABC Family’s The Fosters presenting Teri Polo who won an award for her portrayal of a lesbian on the same TV show. I haven’t seen the show, but the video clips really tug on the heart strings.

Bradley Whitford, actor in the West Wing and Transparent and many others

Sherri Saum of The Fosters presents Teri Polo

Teri Polo of the Fosters on ABC Family

Niki Haris was this year’s entertainment. She has powerhouse vocals and has performed with Madonna, Whitney Houston, and many other recording artists.

Niki Haris performs for the HRC Gala

After the Gala was the after party where DJ Young 1 played music and Niki Haris performed a few more songs for the attendees.

DJ Young 1

Fabulous gals at the after party