Kelley Robinson Inspires Supporters as the Human Rights Campaign Kicks Off Its Milestone Silver Palm Garden Party Weekend
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 11/6/26 – The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) kicked off its 25th Annual Palm Springs Garden Party weekend Friday evening with an elegant VIP & Sponsor Reception hosted by longtime HRC supporter Clint Ford at his beautiful Palm Springs residence.
Held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., the gathering brought together major donors, sponsors, national HRC leadership, Federal Club members, volunteers, and community advocates for an inspiring evening celebrating this year’s theme, “25 Years of Community, Stronger Together.”
Against the spectacular backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, guests gathered around the residence’s illuminated swimming pool, surrounded by colorful Pride-inspired lighting and striking desert architecture. The warm November evening provided a beautiful setting for friendship, celebration, and renewed commitment to LGBTQ+ equality.
One of the evening’s highlights was an enthusiastic address from HRC President Kelley Robinson, who reflected on the week’s election results, the history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, and the importance of continuing the fight for full equality.
“This is what movement building looks like,” Robinson declared as she surveyed the gathering.
Robinson celebrated the political engagement of HRC supporters and emphasized that progress is made possible by generations of advocates who paved the way.
Referencing the legacies of civil rights and LGBTQ+ leaders, Robinson reminded attendees that today’s accomplishments build upon decades of courage, sacrifice, and determination.
Her message also looked toward the future, calling for continued action to protect employment rights, healthcare access, family equality, education, and the freedom for LGBTQ+ Americans to live authentically.
“The power of the people is always greater than the people who are in power,” Robinson told the crowd.
Her remarks were met with enthusiastic applause, reinforcing the evening’s central message that lasting progress requires unity, perseverance, and collective action.
Robinson concluded by encouraging attendees to celebrate the weekend while remaining committed to the important work ahead, leading the gathering in a spirited call for equality.
The reception marked a significant milestone for the HRC Palm Springs Garden Party, which has grown over the past 25 years into a cherished Coachella Valley tradition.
Event organizers welcomed supporters from across the valley’s nine cities, representatives of HRC’s national boards, Federal Club and Federal Club Council members, and volunteer leaders from around the country.
Special recognition was given to local HRC leaders Paul Santello, Andy Noriega, and Josh Russell, along with the dedicated Palm Springs and Coachella Valley Steering Committee.
Organizers also recognized the extraordinary efforts of a 24-member planning committee and more than 80 volunteers whose commitment makes the weekend’s events possible.
The evening included recognition of the 2026 Garden Party honorees, Michael Childers and Marc Malkin, who will be celebrated during Saturday’s festivities.
Heartfelt appreciation was extended to host Clint Ford for his continued generosity and hospitality. Robinson also acknowledged the legacy of Bruce Bastian and the importance of creating spaces where LGBTQ+ advocates, allies, and community organizations can come together.
The reception highlighted the essential contributions of local businesses and community partners whose generosity supports HRC’s advocacy and fundraising efforts.
Guests enjoyed catering provided by New Leaf Catering and Chef Scott Robertson, while Bright Event Rentals received special recognition for its longstanding partnership and support of the Garden Party weekend.
Women-owned and queer-owned Teneral Cellars was also represented among the event’s wine sponsors, adding to the evening’s celebration of businesses supporting equality.
The Hollywood Times was proudly recognized as an official Palm Frond Media Partner for the 25th HRC Garden Party Silver Palm Edition, continuing its commitment to covering LGBTQ+ advocacy, cultural events, and community milestones throughout Southern California.
Throughout the reception, attendees mingled around the glowing turquoise pool, reconnecting with longtime friends, meeting HRC leaders, and enjoying the camaraderie that has become a hallmark of the Garden Party tradition.
Rainbow-colored lighting illuminated the residence, creating a colorful and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly reflected the spirit of Palm Springs Pride.
The evening was particularly meaningful as the Coachella Valley celebrates the 40th anniversary of Greater Palm Springs Pride, another important milestone for the region’s LGBTQ+ community.
The festivities continue Saturday, November 7, with the 25th Annual HRC Palm Springs Garden Party, Silver Palm Edition, at the iconic Dinah Shore Estate.
Guests will have an opportunity to support HRC’s ongoing work through a silent auction featuring more than 100 curated items with a combined retail value of approximately $120,000.
Organizers encouraged attendees to participate generously, reminding everyone of the event’s fundraising message: “Bid high for equality.”
As the VIP & Sponsor Reception came to a close, the evening offered a powerful reminder that the fight for equality is sustained not only through political action but through friendship, generosity, community involvement, and a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive future.
For 25 years, the HRC Palm Springs Garden Party has brought people together around that mission. Friday’s celebration demonstrated that its spirit of community remains as strong as ever.
The Hollywood Times is proud to serve as a media partner for this milestone celebration and to share the stories of those working to advance equality for all.
By Valerie Milano | The Hollywood Times
