On November 18, 2024, the Mazzoni Center will host its highly anticipated 2nd annual Mazzoni Center Honors event at Marian Anderson Hall in Philadelphia’s Kimmel Center for the Arts. This year’s honoree is none other than the legendary George Takei—an actor, activist, and icon whose impact on the arts and LGBTQ+ rights is immeasurable.

This star-studded evening featured a dazzling lineup of Broadway performers, Grammy winners, Emmy Award recipients, and other distinguished guests, all coming together to celebrate Takei’s remarkable career and his tireless advocacy for social justice.

George Takei: A Trailblazer in Entertainment and Activism

Best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the groundbreaking Star Trek franchise, George Takei has spent decades using his platform to advocate for equality and representation. A proud gay man and a vocal activist, Takei has been a champion for LGBTQ+ rights, Asian-American representation, and historical education about the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II—a tragic experience he endured as a child.

Beyond his work in entertainment, Takei has dedicated his life to fighting for justice. His activism spans marriage equality, racial justice, and anti-discrimination efforts, making him one of the most respected figures in both Hollywood and the advocacy world.

Now, Philadelphia’s Mazzoni Center is recognizing his contributions with an unforgettable evening of performances, tributes, and celebrations.

A Star-Studded Celebration

The Mazzoni Center Honors event was one of the most exciting nights of the year. Hosted by Emmy and Peabody Award-winning journalist Soledad O’Brien, the evening featured an impressive lineup of performers, musicians, and Broadway stars, including:

• Celia Rose Gooding – Grammy Award-winning performer and Tony nominee, known for her role as Nyota Uhura in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
• Dawnn Lewis – Grammy Award winner and actress (A Different World, Star Trek: Lower Decks)
• Martha Wash – Two-time Grammy nominee (It’s Raining Men)
• Alan Muraoka – Emmy Award-winning actor (Sesame Street)
• BalletX – Philadelphia’s premier contemporary ballet company
• Telly Leung – Broadway star (Allegiance, Aladdin)
• Lauren Hart – Iconic anthem singer of the NHL

With a lineup featuring talents from Broadway, television, and the music industry, the night was an emotional and inspiring tribute to Takei’s legacy.

Supporting a Vital Cause: The Mazzoni Center’s Mission

Proceeds from the event directly benefited Mazzoni Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and LGBTQ+-competent healthcare and support services throughout the Philadelphia region. The Mazzoni Center plays a crucial role in the community, offering medical care, mental health services, legal aid, and social support to thousands of individuals, many of whom face significant barriers to healthcare.

Each year, the center provides over $1 million in uncompensated care to those who cannot afford medical services, ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals receive equitable and affirming healthcare.

During the Mazzoni Center Honors event, attendees will have the opportunity to contribute to the Health Equity Fund Challenge, a fundraising initiative aimed at expanding access to care for those in need.

A Night to Remember

The Mazzoni Center Honors George Takei event was more than just a celebration of a legendary career—it’s a night that highlights the power of representation, the importance of advocacy, and the strength of the LGBTQ+ community.

With performances, speeches, and heartfelt moments, this event not only honored George Takei’s work but also reinforce the mission of Mazzoni Center: to create a world where everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, has access to quality healthcare and support.

Watch the Highlights

Check out this exclusive video capturing some of the best moments from the night!