Columbus Dinner 2025

HRC is thrilled to honor Sawaun Blakely with the Equality Award at the 2025 Columbus Dinner! Sawaun Blakely has been a driving force behind the Brothers in Unity program at Equitas Health, working to create a safe haven for gay men of color and promoting HIV prevention. Inspired by his personal journey living with HIV, in 2022 Sawaun conceived of the Shades of Red fashion event that has quickly become a community staple. Shades of Red has become a platform that challenges stereotypes, fosters unity, and actively contributes to the fight against HIV/AIDS. Motivated by his late mother's dedication to community service and his own firsthand experience with homelessness and food insecurity, he has dedicated his life to improving his community. 

HRC is thrilled to honor District West with the Community Leadership Award at the 2025 Columbus Dinner! In just five years since it opened, District West has made itself indispensable not only as a gathering place and popular drag bar but also as a unique advocate and fundraiser for LGBTQ+ organizations with owners and queens always willing to step up. The home of the West Family, District West is particularly noticeable for its inclusivity as a drag bar, including performers of color, trans performers, and drag kings, as well as queens.