On September 24, IANGEL gathered with gender justice advocates, attorneys, and supporters for our 12th Anniversary gala, Seeing the Stars, in the sparkling Crystal Ballroom of the Marines Memorial Club in San Francisco. Inspired by the night sky and the courage of those who light the way toward justice, the evening was a celebration of community, resilience, and commitment to advancing women’s rights worldwide.
The program began with a warm welcome from IANGEL board member Emily Charley, who reflected on the power of community in advancing gender justice, thanked our wonderful sponsors, and recognized three young girls in attendance as the feminist advocates of the future. Attendees were then delighted by musical guests Jennie and Mark Walstrom, who sang the beautiful song Dark Skies Again, by Sarah Yanni.
In her opening remarks, IANGEL Founder and CEO Nancy Newman spoke to the theme of the evening, noting that when the skies are darkest, we can see the stars. This indeed is an apt metaphor for the times, as dark forces are rejecting human rights, history, science, and truth. And yet, we are inspired by Afghan women and girls, enduring suffocating oppression by the Taliban, yet determined to resist and find hope in the darkness. IANGEL is proud to work with them, and proud of all who work for justice and are in the struggle no matter what. She urged the attendees not to despair, reminded them that they are more powerful than they think they are, and thanked them for seeing, and being, the stars of the evening.
Honoring Leaders of Courage The evening centered on the presentation of the 2024-2025 Amel Zenoune-Zouani Rights & Leadership Award to Zubaida Akbar and Hafidha Chekir . Board member Mahwish Moazzam introduced Ms. Akbar, who was unable to attend due to having a sick child, but who sent her warm acceptance comments via video, reminding all of the extreme hardship endured by Afghan women and girls and the urgent need for a robust international response. Board member Jaime Touchstone introduced the honoree Chekir, who came from Tunisia to accept the award. Her story, of being a lifelong advocate for equality and justice, and noting the intersectionality of protecting all rights – for women, disabled people, LGBTQI+ people, to build a world of justice. Professor Chekir delivered her comments in French, with a translator; here is a translation of her comments: Click here to read Professor Chekir’s comments.
Inspiration and Artistry
The highlight of the evening was the premiere of IANGEL’s video, the
Commitment in Action The evening included a call to action by IANGEL board member Kawser Amine, and more wonderful singing from Jennie and Mark Walstrom. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the gala raised over $60,000, surpassing our goal and helping sustain and expand IANGEL’s unique and impactful projects, including support for underground schools and our BRIDGE project for Afghan women lawyers, and so much more. Even in dark skies, the impact of this support will provide hope for a better future.
It was an inspiring, joyful, and deeply meaningful night. IANGEL extends heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, honorees, Gala Host Committee, volunteers, and every guest who joined us to light the night sky with justice.
