A senior advisor to President Obama and one of the president's closest longtime friends will be giving the keynote address at this year's Equality Illinois Gala on Feb. 11.
Valerie Jarrett, senior advisor to Obama and chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls, will address the event, Equality Illinois announced, Feb. 8.
Jarrett's attendance fits with this year's gala theme "Celebrating Every Family," Equality Illinois said in the announcement.
"We are excited to welcome Valerie Jarrett to our gala," said Bernard Cherkasov, CEO of Equality Illinois. "President Obama has led the way on many fronts: Legislatively he achieved the repeal of the 'don't ask-don't tell' policy for gay and lesbian members of the military and enactment of the Hate Crimes Act. In the courts, his Administration has argued that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional. Administratively, the White House and federal departments have taken many steps to advance lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality and strengthen LGBT families and communities."
Jarrett, a former Chicagoan, is widely considered to be one of the president's closest confidants.
According to Equality Illinois, more than 1,000 are expected to attend the fundraiser.
The gala will be held this Sat., Feb. 11 at the Grand and International Ballrooms of the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave. More information is available at equalityillinois.org .
