A glow with guests sporting LEDs and shimmering sequins, Compass LGBTQ+ Community Center celebrated its annual Stonewall Ball at the Downtown West Palm Beach Hilton. The fundraiser began with a VIP cocktail reception followed by a three-hour dance party under the theme, “Love, Lights and Liberation.”
Compass COO Michael Riordan summarized the evening’s intent as both a celebration and honoring a legacy of struggle.
“Each year our goal is to provide an amazing night for people to enjoy while showing the amazing vitality and resilience of LGBTQ+ people. The last several years have been particularly rough. Pride Month is a celebration, but it is also a reminder that we had to fight to get where we are.”
A key highlight of the June 29 event was the presentation of some awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ community.
In her opening remarks, Compass CEO Julie Seaver echoed the night’s theme and the need for an engaged community. “The political is now personal, and we have to vote like our life depends on it.”
Seaver closed her remarks by presenting Rudolph Galindo, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Tamarac, with the Michael Brown Faces of the Community Award.
Lake Worth Beach Commissioner Sarah Malegas, winner of the 2023 Compass Leadership Award, presented the 2024 Leadership Award to Lake Worth Beach Mayor Betty Resch.
“It’s important right now that we honor our allies … She has been an ally for decades,” said Malegas.
In her speech, Resch recounted memories of the early struggle for LGBTQ liberation in New York City and that at its root, “it’s just love. Let’s face it, it’s just love.”
Attendees were ushered into an adjoining ballroom, where DJ Legato spun hits for the growing crowd. The ball delivered fun and revelry, enhanced with a seemingly endless confetti cannon. Guests enjoyed several numbers from veteran divas – Melissa St. John, Velvet Lenore, and Rianna Petrone. In addition to individual performances, the divas took to the stage together for a finale.
Guests were also treated to a surprise performance by Drag King and reigning Mr. Palm Beach Pride 2024, Ground Zero.
Ground Zero, who has made a goal of fundraising for Compass during their reign, was grateful to support the event – “Tonight is one of the biggest pride gatherings that we have for the year. It’s our biggest fundraiser, and being here and being able to support our local community is one of the best things about reigning under this title.”
On the evening’s success, Riordan added, “The Stonewall Ball has many goals and last night we are grateful to have met them all. It is an event where we raise funds to continue to provide life-saving services for the community; but it also serves as a chance for the community to celebrate together … We hope that the Stonewall Ball helps people remember where we came from and gives them a reason to keep fighting.”
For more information on Compass’ many programs and services, visit compasslgbtq.com.
