Two Villagers were honored Friday night for their efforts in the LGBT movement.
Peggy Garvin and Wendy O’Donnell, founders of The Villages Rainbow Family and Friends, were presented with the 2015 Voice for Equality Award. The presentation was made by CEO of Equality Florida Nadine Smith during an event at Lake Miona Recreation Center.
Garvin and O’Donnell, who have been together for more than two decades, have been leaders in the local equality movement.
“I couldn’t have imagined this day,” Smith said in reference to the legalization and growing acceptance of gay marriages.
Smith also touched on ending bigotry, discussed the LGBT community’s progress in Florida as an impact on the country, and urged the crowd to voice opposition to a pending Pastor Protection Act.
Featured at the event was Carlos Guillermo Smith, who will be running for House District 49. Smith encouraged people to head to Tallahassee to fight the Pastor Protection Act. He called it a “Trojan Horse” and said it would allow for other bills that express disapproval and insult toward the LGBT community.
After Smith made her closing remarks, she was presented with a $1,000 check by the club to keep Equality Florida strong as the orgazniation continues its mission.
For six years, the Rainbow Family and Friends have dreamt of Smith appearing at one of their events and were pleased to finally have her speak to the crowd.
“The event is fabulous,” said Village of Tall Trees resident Nancy Knight. The webmaster of the club also went on to say that Smith’s speech was inspirational. She praised both Equality Florida and Villages Rainbow Family and Friends for their tireless efforts.
The event kicked off with hors d’oeuvres served by John Michael’s Catering and a performance by Petrina.
“We have a great turn out, over 200 people are here,” said Garvin.
To wrap up the benefit, attendants danced the night away as entertainer Petrina performed.
