Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality, honored groundbreaking and critically acclaimed television series “Empire” for helping to change hearts and minds on LGBT equality at the HRC Los Angeles Gala Dinner on March 19 at the JW Marriott LA Live.  Accepting the awards was Executive Producer Lee Daniels and Empire cast including Jussie Smollett, Bryshere Yazz Gray, Gabourey Sidibe, Serayah, Estelle, and Ta’Rhonda Jones. A drama about a family dynasty set within the world of music, glamour, danger and power, Empire has dominated television ratings and was just renewed last month for a third season on Fox.

Also honored was celebrated film and television producer Nina Jacobson, whose work includes the blockbuster hit “The Hunger Games” and FX’s “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story”, who received the HRC Visibility Award.  The HRC Visibility Award recognizes the efforts of those who use their incredible talent and visibility to help better the lives of LGBT people. In the early 90’s, Jacobson co-founded an organization for openly LGBT entertainment personnel called “Out There,” and she has consistently used her voice to advocate for equality.

Jacobson was presented with the HRC Visibility Award by her “Out There” co-founder, acclaimed screenwriter, producer and director Ryan Murphy. Throughout his career Murphy has consistently brought the stories and struggles of LGBT people to the forefront, with groundbreaking programs like Glee and the Normal Heart. Earlier this month, he launched Half, a foundation that is committed to addressing the lack of diversity in Hollywood, by ensuring that fifty percent of director slots on his shows are held by women, people of color and members of the LGBT community.