During this time of discrimination and distorted information, the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender (GLBT) community, now more than ever, need to be seen as they are: human beings. When Pride & Equality (P&E) magazine came on the scene in January of 2004, their mission was to portray the GLBT community in a different light. For years, publications have focused on the stereotypes of the community, making them sexually-charged, fashion crazed pretty boys and girls. P&E decided to go with a simple approach; portray the community as regular individuals living, dying, raising families and looking toward the future in this world.

Now the publisher of Pride & Equality is taking it a step further with The Vincent R. Johnson Models of Hope award. Developed in January 2005, Pride & Equality created a Models of Hope issue (January-February). They look for individuals within the GLBT community that can see as a ray of light for how they should be portrayed. Recipients of this award will be honored at a dinner and silent auction on Friday, February 18, 2011 at The Albuquerque Convention Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. All silent auction proceeds will go to benefit Common Bond, a non-profit under 21 mentoring group. The event will close on Saturday, February 19, 2011 with a celebration concert featuring such artists as Colton Ford*, Pepper Mashay*, and RaShaan Houston*.

This is a wonderful opportunity for your company to be represented at the event by:
• Sponsoring in one of the six sponsorship levels;
• Partnering as a media sponsor;
• Nominating an individual or business for next year’s event;
• Donate a item to the silent auction;
• Participating in the event by purchasing tickets to attend the dinner or concert, purchasing a table to promote your business at the dinner, a booth to promote your business at the concert or an ad to be displayed in the VRJ Models of Hope Awards program.

To purchase tickets, an ad in the program or to sponsor the event please call (505) 255-4502 or visit the links above.

*Artists still in negotiations. Appearances have not been confirmed.