Elton John and David Furnish to present the Luminary Award to Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka at Family Equality’s annual New York City fundraising gala.

New York, NY — Family Equality, the leading national organization advancing equality for LGBTQ+ families, announced today that Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka, fathers to twins Harper and Gideon, will be honored at its annual Night at the Pier fundraising gala on Monday, May 11 in New York City. The couple will receive the Luminary Award in recognition of their visibility, advocacy, and enduring commitment to LGBTQ+ families.

The award will be presented by fellow fathers, Elton John and David Furnish, Founder and Chair respectively of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and longtime champions of LGBTQ+ equality and family affirmation.

This year’s theme, “We show up,” reflects Family Equality’s enduring commitment to LGBTQ+ families nationwide – in moments of crisis and in moments of possibility.

“As a parent raising twins myself, I know firsthand that family life is equal parts joy, chaos, worry, and wonder,” said Darra Gordon, CEO of Family Equality. “And like so many parents, I know what really makes a family strong isn’t perfection — it’s showing up. Showing up for the hard days, the loud days, the ordinary days, and making sure our kids have the love, safety, and support they need to thrive.

“Neil and David are raising twin teens while using their visibility to show what loving committed LGBTQ+ parenthood looks like. That kind of representation matters. It tells our kids that they belong. It tells our communities that our families are real, resilient, and strong. And it reminds all of us why we show up – not only for those everyday moments at home, but for the more than five million children being raised by LGBTQ+ parents across this country. Every one of them deserves safety, dignity, and belonging.”

Held annually in New York City at Pier 60, Night at the Pier brings together advocates, celebrities, allies, and movement partners for an evening of unforgettable Broadway performances, powerful storytelling, and meaningful impact. Proceeds from the gala directly support Family Equality’s work to protect and advance the rights of LGBTQ+ families across the country.

Last year, Night at the Pier, which honored Jason Weinberg and Merritt Johnson, sold-out with over 1,000 guests and raised $1.5 million – a record for Family Equality. The 2025 evening featured musical performances by Nicole Scherzinger (Sunset Boulevard), Megan Hilty (Death Becomes Her), and Darren Criss (Maybe Happy Ending), along with special appearances by Demi Moore, Cole Escola, Debbie Harry, Bill T. Jones, Jim Obergefell, and Marlo Thomas. 

The 2026 performers and special guests will be announced closer to the event date. 

EVENT DETAILS:

To purchase tickets and see more details, visit familyequality.org/night-at-the-pier. 

TO COVER THE EVENT AND RED CARPET CONTACT:

Family Equality is the only national nonprofit dedicated to protecting and advancing the freedoms of all LGBTQ+ families through bold advocacy, powerful community building, and transformative education. 

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