Ryan O'Connell, Lucy McBath, Cynthia Erivo to Be Honored by HRC

The Human Rights Campaign will honor Special star Ryan O'Connell, Congresswoman Lucy McBath, and Broadway actress Cynthia Erivo at their Atlanta gala in May.

O'Connell will be awarded with the HRC Visibility Award at the event. The award comes as his new Netflix series, which largely relates the experience of the gay and disabled, find massive success.

"Ryan O'Connell is an incredibly gifted artist and activist who is inspiring LGBTQ young people, people living with disabilities, and so many others across the country," said HRC President Chad Griffin. "As an writer, actor, producer and advocate, Ryan O'Connell is changing countless hearts and minds by boldly speaking out for fairness and equality. We are proud to honor Ryan O'Connell with the HRC Visibility Award at the 2019 HRC Atlanta Gala Dinner."

The other award recipients will be honored as allies.

McBath, a Georgia congresswoman, defeated an anti-LGBTQ opponent when she won election in November. She will give a speech at the dinner.

"From speaking out against the Trump-Pence administration's discriminatory trans military ban to fighting for the Equality Act, Rep. Lucy McBath continues to be a tireless advocate and ally to the LGBTQ community," Griffin said.

McBath has been called the "Mother of the Movement" for her advocacy for gun control. McBath, the mother of Jordan Davis, a 17-year-old boy fatally shot for playing loud music, has also advocated for trans rights in Congress. HRC specifically noted her work with a cross-section of activists, including HRC leaders.

Erivo will be honored with the HRC Ally for Equality Award. She's best known for her portrayal of Celie in the revival of The Color Purple, but has also supported Pulse survivors and spoken out against anti-LGBTQ policies put in place by the Trump administration.

Information for the May 4 gala can be found here.