The Beacons of Light Dinner and Icon Award Ceremony
returns on
Friday, April 10, 2026
University of Massachusetts Club
One Beacon Street, Boston
Cocktail Reception for VIP Guests and Honorees
6:00 - 7:00 PM
Dinner and Icon Award Ceremony
7:00 - 10 PM
Join us for an evening of dinner, drinks, and dancing in celebration of community and impact.
This annual event honors individuals and organizations whose leadership, advocacy, and voices have made a meaningful impact on the lives of LGBTQ people across Massachusetts and the nation. All proceeds benefit MassEquality and support its ongoing work to advance equality and justice.
Don't miss one of the premier LGBTQ events of the season!
Interested in lending a hand at this event? Click here to register as a volunteer.
2026 BEACONS OF LIGHT HONOREES
POLITICAL ICON
Robert Goldstein, DPH Commissioner
Dr. Robbie Goldstein is a physician, public health leader, and infectious disease specialist who serves as Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Appointed in 2023, he leads statewide efforts to advance health equity, strengthen public health infrastructure, and improve outcomes across Massachusetts communities. Board-certified in internal medicine and infectious diseases, Dr. Goldstein previously served as Medical Director of the Transgender Health Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and as an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School. His clinical and academic work has focused on HIV care, LGBTQ health, and expanding access to affirming, high-quality healthcare for marginalized populations.
COMMUNITY ICON
Holly Ryan
Holly Ryan is a veteran activist. She is the first openly transgender woman to serve on a City Council in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the first openly LGBTQ+ person to serve on the Newton City Council. A founding member and former co-chair of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition, she was instrumental in building the coalition that led to the passage of both the 2011 Trans Rights Law and 2016 Public Accommodations Law. She has served as an advisor to a former president of the Massachusetts State Senate on prioritizing LGBTQ+ legislation. She was the first trans person to serve on the Newton Human Rights Commission and served as LGBTQ+ Liaison for two Mayors.
COMMUNITY ICON
Justice Williams
As a Community Relations Specialist for the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQIA2S+ Advancement, Justice works to ensure accessible
City services and affirming community spaces across Boston. His mission: break down stigma, build equity, and promote safety in every neighborhood.
As a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging consultant and strategic planning advisor, he partners with nonprofits to strengthen leadership, deepen impact, and create spaces where everyone feels seen and valued.
Justice is also a healer, poet, writer, and co-editor of Deconstructing the Fitness Industrial Complex (North Atlantic Books, 2023); a powerful anthology challenging traditional fitness culture and advocating
for inclusive, body-affirming movement spaces.
PERSISTENCE IN POLITICS
Althea Garrison
Althea Garrison is a longtime Massachusetts political figure known for her persistence and resilience in public life. First elected to the Massachusetts House in 1992, she made history as one of the first transgender state legislators in the United States. Over the decades, she has remained a consistent presence, running for public office and advocating for her place in the political arena. Her career reflects determination, longevity, and an unwavering commitment to civic participation. Garrison’s political identity has long been shaped more by her persistence in running for office and her alignment with conservative policy positions than by LGBTQ advocacy. Her career highlights the complexity of identity in politics and the beautiful diversity within our community, including the diversity of thought.
As a Host Committee member, you’ll receive
- Acknowledgement at the event and in the program
- Recognition on your table
- Exclusive gift bag for you and your guests
- First access to early bird tickets and VIP upgrades
- A chance to shape the night’s energy and guest list
We ask that you
- Attend a virtual Host Committee training
- Help us promote the event through your circles
- Invite at least one table of ten
- Share the ticket link and sponsor opportunities
It’s easy, impactful, and fun. Plus, we’ll support you with custom links, talking points, and check-ins along the way.