Guild welcomes D.C. officer
CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte Business Guild is bringing the U.S. Department of State’s Director of the Office of Civil Rights and Chief Diversity Officer John Robinson to its May 17 meeting at Crowne Plaza Hotel, 201 S. McDowell St.
Robinson will present the topic: “Lessons Learned at The Department of State on Diversity Issues.”
He will deliver a presentation relating to such current and vital subjects as: how leadership makes the difference for diversity effectiveness, the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the State Department’s non-discrimination policy statements and the presentation of the 2009 Equal Employment Opportunity Award to Robert Gilchrist for outstanding leadership in improved personnel policies relating to LGBT employees. As part of the presentation, Robinson will review milestones reached on behalf of the LGBT population since 1950.
Admission to the event is $20 and is open to the public. It includes appetizer, dinner entrees, dessert, coffee and tea. A cash bar is available, as well as free parking. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Sponsors are the Human Rights Campaign, Equality North Carolina and Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee.
To make reservations or for more information, email guild@charlottebusinessguild.org or visit charlottebusinessguild.org.
Fundraiser approaches
CHARLOTTE — “Forté!,” the annual black-tie fundraising gala of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte, will be held on May 7, 6:30-11:30 p.m., at the Morrison Atrium of the Mint Museum, 500 S. Tryon St.
It features dinner, auctions and performances by the Chorus and its smaller ensemble, Seventh Son. Dancing and dessert follow.
Tickets are $50 and must be purchased by May 4.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit gmccharlotte.org.