Chefs for Equality: A New Vision for Unity and Support

In times like these, when things feel uncertain, coming together with others becomes even more important—especially when it involves sharing delicious meals. That's exactly why, given everything happening nationally and politically, Chefs For Equality, an event by Human Rights Campaign, decided it was time shake things up a bit. Known as a cornerstone event advocating LGBTQ rights, this culinary celebration in our region promises an exciting new twist this year.

Chefs For Equality 2023: A culinary celebration you can't miss

This year marks a special 13th edition called "Everything Everywhere All at Once," and it's happening on Monday, October 27, across some top-notch restaurants in Washington, D.C. By targeting local restaurants, this event aims at capturing what makes our community tick. Here, you'll find five incredible collaborative dinners featuring some famous chefs, mixologists, and restaurant owners from across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

Resilience and solidarity through food

David Hagedorn, who's behind this whole gala, really believes in its power. "Chefs For Equality highlights what makes our local restaurant scene strong and united," he says. The new format not only pushes creativity in culinary arts but also stands as a powerful message about resilience and equality. Given tough economic times, Hagedorn and his team wanted a more down-to-earth version, by utilizing local eateries. It helps keep that collaboration alive while they continue raising funds and awareness through HRC Foundation. This year, it's about empowering our restaurant community's commitment, especially when certain government policies threaten hard-won rights.

D.C. dining like never before

Each dinner starts with a splashy cocktail reception, then moves onto a fantastic multi-course meal with dessert. Plus, there're even more chances this year! From October 27 through November 2, a special "Chefs For Equality Promotional Week" kicks off. Various places across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia will offer specials and donate part their sales directly back HRC Foundation. Although main dinners happen one night only, it expands chances citywide support causes in varied ways.

The magic food brings

Kelley Robinson from HRC Foundation talks about food's magical ability unifying people: "Food connects us no matter our differences—it reminds me we're all human after all." Collaborating again with top chefs from D.C., they imagine a future where everyone feels safe being true selves wherever go day-to-day. Quite inspiring, don't you think?

Remembering Chefs For Equality's roots

Looking back on its beginnings, Hagedorn shares how back in 2012, Chefs For Equality started as single event raising funds Maryland's marriage equality push. He recalls those pivotal years during AIDS crisis, underscoring lesson learned: we must never take rights granted.

Support from chefs who care

Chef Johanna Hellrigl, co-owner Northern Italian joint Ama, loves backing this event and HRC Foundation. At The Duck and Peach dinner, she'll serve up Ligurian Fügassa Focaccia among other tasty bites. She says having events right inside restaurants this year showcases how deeply they support community, even when challenges arise. "We always find ways come together," she shares, "it's about spreading love where we can."

Meet your chefs: a night culinary collaboration

CUT by Wolfgang Puck

Famous Chef Wolfgang Puck teams up with Chefs Andrew Ho, Ligia Barros (both from CUT), Amy Brandwein (Centrolina), Harley Peet (Bas Rouge), and Bryan Voltaggio (Wye Oak Tavern).

Moon Rabbit

Chefs Kevin Tien and Susan Bae partner with Chefs Rob Rubba (Oyster Oyster), Ryan Ratino (Bresca, Jont), Ellinn Yin (A.Kitchen+Bar), Satang Ruangsangwatana, Prapavadee Limvatana (Six Ways Sunday), Seng Luangrath (Baan Mae), and Paolo Dungca (Kaya).

The Duck and Peach

Chefs Katarina Petonito, Rochelle Cooper join forces Chefs Johanna Hellrigl (Ama), Matt Adler (Caruso's Grocery), Carlos Delgado (Causa), Jova Urriolla (Colada Shop), Mike Friedman, Robert Cain (Red Hen), Simon Lam (Tiger Fork), Ria Montes (Fish Shop Bar & Restaurant), Kareem Queeman (Mr. Bake).

Acqua Bistecca

Chef Colin Clark connects with Chefs Tatiana Mora, Miguel Guerra (MITA), Ruben Garcia (Casa Teresa), Tony Chittum (Iron Gate, Vermillion), Matt Conroy, Isabel Coss (Pascual), Scott Drewno (Fried Rice Collective).

Perry's

Chef Masako Morishita, plus Audrey Angeles (Forrest & Flourish), David Guas (Neutral Ground), presents “Drag Brunch Dinner”— a lavish buffet curated by James Beard-award winner Morishita, complete performances D.C.'s top drag superstars.

This year's reimagined Chefs For Equality event promises something special. It celebrates community, culinary brilliance, and ongoing fight-for-equality all rolled one.