The overarching theme for the evening was "strengthening numbers," with the event serving as a fundraiser to support organizations actively addressing issues related to violence against women. The gala featured a live auction with the iconic Lydia Fett at the helm, offering a range of items and experiences from renowned names like Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Brian Peta, Yori, and others.
Original artworks by Emily Yang, WAMU, and Cindy Sherman were also up for auction. Journalist Lisa Ling took on hosting duties for this year's event, with co-chair positions held by luminaries such as Gloria Steinem, Salma Hayek, Francois-Henry Pinault, Cindy Sherman, Christy Turlington, Olivia Wilde, Oprah Winfrey, Zoe Kravitz, and Malala Yousafzai.
The proceeds from the gala were directed towards supporting organizations actively combating gender-based violence, including the Malala Fund, the National Network to End Domestic Violence, and the New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault.
Notably, Meghan Markle, despite having close friends among the past attendees, including Oprah, Gloria Steinem, and Kim Kardashian, was conspicuously absent from the guest list. According to a source, Meghan's absence from the event was attributed to her recent collaboration with Gloria. When Meghan mentioned in a Vogue article that she had crossed paths with Gloria, it raised questions about her authenticity within the feminist movement. A genuine feminist, as the argument goes, doesn't engage in behavior that bullies other women into submission.
Gloria Steinem, a prominent writer and advocate in the feminist movement with a well-established position, made Meghan's association seem more opportunistic, partly driven by her royal title. The breakdown in their working relationship subsequently led to Meghan being denied the privilege of attending such a significant event in support of women's causes.
It is believed that Meghan may be using Gloria, a woman who is approaching her 90s, for her own ends. Gloria is a respected figure in the feminist movement, and people come to her; she doesn't need to be summoned. Meghan's approach seemed to thrive on positive commentary, even going so far as to praise Gloria's kindness and commend her, which, in the eyes of some critics, appeared somewhat inauthentic.
Gloria confirmed that Harry was indeed an advocate for women's rights and referred to the Sussexes as a chosen family. She emphasized the importance of their advocacy, citing trust as the key factor. Gloria stated, "It's very, very important because what they both have is trust. We trust them, and nothing but nothing replaces trust. It's the most important quality or attribute." In essence, she commended their role as trusted voices in advocating for important causes.
