Human Rights Campaign Celebrates Enduring Legacy of Equality Champion Gavin J. Goorjian, Whose $3.6 Million Gift will Power the Future of LGBTQ+ Rights

Gavin Goorjian, who passed away in 2022, was renowned for his steadfast dedication to LGBTQ+ visibility, justice, and inclusion. From mobilizing grassroots movements to mentoring emerging advocates and entrepreneurs, Gavin was a beacon of courage and compassion who inspired countless people to live authentically and fight for a more equitable future.

"Gavin's generosity is matched only by his lifelong commitment to justice," said HRC President Kelley Robinson. "This extraordinary gift will ensure that HRC can carry forward his personal mission-protecting LGBTQ+ rights, confronting discrimination, and building a future where every person can thrive free from fear and prejudice. We are proud to keep marching toward a better tomorrow in Gavin's memory."

The bequest will advance HRC's highest-priority initiatives, including the creation of the Gavin J. Goorjian Visionary Leadership Award, to be presented annually at the HRC Las Vegas Fundraising Dinner in recognition of outstanding Las Vegas-based community leaders. This year's inaugural honoree is Fletcher Whitwell, Chair of the R&R Partners Foundation.

"My husband Gavin, a proud fourth-generation Nevadan, carried an unwavering love for his state, his city, and his country," said Jason Goorjian. "He believed deeply in fairness and equality, and he was never afraid to take a stand against injustice. Gavin was selfless and giving, always putting others before himself, and I could not be more proud of the life he lived and the example he set. This gift is a reflection of those values, and I am honored to continue his fight so that his vision for a more just and inclusive future lives on."

In addition, the Gavin J. Goorjian Trust will serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the HRC Las Vegas Fundraising Gala for the next decade. This generous commitment will enable HRC to strengthen and expand its work advancing LGBTQ+ equality in Nevada and nationwide.

"Gavin dedicated his life to building bridges and ensuring no one ever felt alone in this fight," said Latoya Holman, member of the HRC National Board of Directors, based in Nevada. "Through this generous gift, he will continue opening doors and improving the lives of countless LGBTQ+ people for generations to come."

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is the nation's largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people, with 3.6 million members and supporters. The HRC Foundation (a 501(c)(3)) works to ensure LGBTQ+ people are safe, seen and supported where it matters most: at school, at work and in every community across the country. From the courtroom to the classroom, from Congress to corporate America, HRC and the HRC Foundation build power through partnerships, storytelling, and action-working to create a future rooted in equity, freedom and belonging for all LGBTQ+ people.
# # #