Members of the LGBT Bar NY attend the annual gala in New York.
Photo by Lorenzo Ciniglio/OCA
The LGBT Bar NY association gathered to celebrate its progress and honor those leading the way toward a more just future at its 2026 Annual Gala on May 12.
Held at City Winery on Pier 57 in Manhattan, the event recognized legal professionals and community members who have shown a strong commitment to justice, equality and the advancement of members of the LGBTQ+ community.
(L-R) Eric J. Wursthorn, Judge and President, LGBT Bar Association and Foundation for Greater New York (LeGaL”), and Rowan D. Wilson, Chief Judge of the State of New York, attend the LGBT Bar NY annual gala in New York City.Photo by Lorenzo Ciniglio/OCA
The honorees were Susan L. Bender, an attorney and partner at Bender & Crane, LLP; the Hon. Cynthia S. Kern, a retired Justice of the NYS Supreme Court Appellate Division; and Miss Peppermint, an artist and community activist.
Bender, who won the Community Vision Award, is recognized as one of the top matrimonial attorneys in the Empire State and is often listed as one of the “Best Lawyers in America.” According to LGBT Bar NY, she received a preeminent rating for legal ability and ethical standards in the Martindale Hubbell directory of attorneys.
Honoree, Susan L. Bender, Esq, speaks at the LGBT Bar NY annual gala in New York City.Photo by Lorenzo Ciniglio/OCA
The Bar group said Kern, recipient of the Community Excellence Award, is a recognized leader and advocate within the legal community and described her as a champion for diversity. Miss Peppermint, who won the other Community Vision Award, made history as the first out trans woman to orginate a lead role on Broadway in the Go-Go’s-inspired show, “Head Over Heels,” according to the organization.
The annual gala honors the leaders advancing equality and justice for the LGBTQ+ community. For over 35 years, the LGBT Bar NY Foundation has provided a safe harbor for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, regardless of their legal issue.