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The annual Bill of Rights Awards by the ACLU of Southern California honored Mark Ruffalo, along with “Will & Harper” stars Harper Steele and Will Ferrell, author Viet Thanh Nguyen of “The Sympathizer,” and sports legend Brittney Griner and her wife Cherelle Griner.
The event, held shortly after the election, had a serious tone as presenters and honorees stressed the importance of the ACLU in safeguarding civil rights and promoting social justice during a Trump administration. An unsettling moment occurred when an SUV draped with Trump flags drove by the Beverly Hilton hotel as guests arrived for the gala.
Brittney Griner, who experienced a lengthy ordeal in a Russian work camp before being released through a prisoner swap arranged by the Biden administration in 2022, commended the ACLU. She highlighted the shared values between her and the organization in supporting marginalized communities with compassion and patriotism.
Nguyen, the Pulitzer Prize winner, spoke about the potential impact of a second Trump term on artists. He mentioned the importance of writers and artists speaking out against injustices, regardless of the political climate.
Harper Steele, featured in the Netflix documentary “Will & Harper” alongside Ferrell, expressed her concerns as a transgender woman following the election, emphasizing the struggles faced by marginalized communities under the new administration.
Ruffalo, presented with his award by Zoe Saldaña, urged for generous donations to the ACLU to bolster their efforts in the challenging times ahead.
Explore more photos from the ACLU SoCal Bill of Rights Awards below.
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