The 2026 Equality Now “Make Equality Reality” Gala celebrates courage and those who choose it, honouring Virginia Roberts Giuffre, Gisèle Pelicot and Caroline Darian

New York, 22 October 2026 – Last night in New York City, global leaders, activists, and artists gathered in a celebration of courage and the power of legal reform at Equality Now’s 2026 Make Equality Reality Gala, held at Cipriani 25 Broadway.

The 15th annual event focused on choosing courage in a world where women’s and girls’ rights are being undermined, bringing together changemakers who use their voices, platforms and influence to stand side by side for equality, dignity and justice.

To a standing ovation, Gisèle Pelicot and her daughter Caroline Darian were presented with the Equality Now Trailblazer Award for their ongoing advocacy that has brought much-needed attention and action to the global reality of drug-facilitated sexual assault and consent. 

Mariska Hargitay honored Virginia Roberts Giuffre in a moving tribute to her profound legacy in challenging those in privilege who abuse their power. Giuffre’s brother and sister-in-law, Sky and Amanda Roberts, accepted the award, reflecting on the shared responsibility of achieving Virginia’s hope for a safer world for women and girls through Virginia’s Law.

Equality Now’s CEO S. Mona Sinha captured the evening’s spirit in her opening remarks, illuminating the connection between each honoree’s story, the urgent need for institutions to fully address sexual violence, including Cornell, and a call for legal reform if survivors are to find justice. Sinha applauded all who share their power to stand up for women and girls, saying, “Use your influence. Open your networks. Invest your resources. Stand with survivors. Help us change the laws and institutions that have failed them.” 

Hosted by Joyelle Nicole Johnson, the program included performances by Tony Award-winning playwright, performer and activist  Sarah Jones, the Brooklyn-based band Brass Queens, and a headline performance by pianist/composer/producer Ray Angry, accompanied by Leah Rich.

Sponsors included The Montag Family Foundation, Melony and Adam Lewis, the Kering Foundation, Britta Jacobson, the Sinha Family Fund, the Stardust Fund, Kimberly Agnew and Melony Lewis. The evening exceeded its fundraising goal, raising over 1 million.

Guests included Monica Lewinsky, Saara Chaudry, Amrit Kaur, Jackson Katz, Mohammadreza Eyni, Sara Khaki and Sheetal Sheeth.

About Equality Now

Equality Now is a worldwide human rights organization dedicated to securing the legal and systemic change needed to end discrimination against all women and girls. Since its inception in 1992, it has played a role in reforming more than 140 discriminatory laws globally, positively impacting the lives of hundreds of millions of women and girls, their communities and nations, both now and for generations to come. Working with partners at national, regional and global levels, Equality Now draws on deep legal expertise and a diverse range of social, political and cultural perspectives to continue to lead the way in steering, shaping and driving the change needed to achieve enduring gender equality, to the benefit of all.

About S. Mona Sinha, Chief Executive Officer, Equality Now

Mona Sinha is the Chief Executive Officer of Equality Now and a globally recognized advocate for gender equality, philanthropy and social change. In September 2026, she was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame. The recognition reflects a lifetime of leadership advancing women’s rights and mobilising significant resources for gender equality. Her other honors include the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the Smith College Medal, and recognition from Forbes and Apolitical for her leadership and impact.

For more information please contact: Monica Sheldon monica.m.sheldon@gmail.com.

For more information on the “Make Equality Reality Gala 2026”, please visit www.equalitynow.org/gala.