On October 12th, we had the pleasure of coming together to celebrate some extraordinary individuals at our annual event, Celebrating Allies. Supporters, advocates, allies, and survivors helped us highlight the amazing work being done to end sexual harm and the message resonated deeply within our community. Attendees reaffirmed their commitment to the movement and made the evening a resounding success by raising $63,922.63, the most from any single fundraiser in CAASE’s history. This money directly funds the invaluable work of CASE’s dedicated staff in support of our mission.

The heart of the annual event is a tribute to those who are effecting change in profound ways. We presented the prestigious Visionary Award to author, activist, and cultural critic Mikki Kendall for her inspiring writing. Her work reflects CASE’s strategic goals of increasing accountability to those who are most marginalized and impacted by sexual harm, strengthening intersectional equity, and ending racism within and beyond the anti gender-based violence movement.

Our event also recognized the outstanding legal work accomplished on behalf of survivors through CAASE’s pro bono partnerships. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, a law firm known for its long history of community service, and its attorney, Gail Lee, were honored with Pro Bono Excellence Award and Pro Bono Luminary Award for their exceptional dedication to representing survivors of sexual harm.

We were privileged to hear the moving account of a survivor who courageously shared her experiences, and the evening was further enriched by the heartfelt and inspiring words of Saunte Harden-Tate. She is a survivor, writer, and spoken word artist who performed an original poem commissioned for the event and inspired by Mikki Kendall’s Hood Feminism.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who joined us at Celebrating Allies to support survivors, including our generous sponsors. Our sincere thanks go out to Skadden, The Silver Foundation, ArentFoxSchiff, Friedman Family Fund, King & Spalding, Mercer, Baker McKenzie, Boomerang Information Services, Corboy & Demetrio, Mayer Brown, Motorola Solutions Foundation, Motorola Solutions, Ernst & Young, Ulta Beauty, and Tito’s Vodka for their generosity. In addition to our attendees and sponsors, we thank our board of directors for their contributions in making this evening a success. 

The fight against sexual harm is undeniably challenging, which underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the dedication and resilience of our partners in this endeavor. By standing with survivors, embracing allyship, and committing to shift our culture, we can collectively make a profound difference. Thank you for joining us in envisioning a world free from sexual violence and for supporting the vital work that lies ahead.

If you’d like to support CASE’s mission and stand with survivors, please consider donating today. Your support makes a significant impact in our ongoing efforts.

This piece was published on October 13, 2023. It was authored by Hayley Forrestal. Learn more about our staff here.