Photos: MFA’s 2012 Justice For All Celebration

7363261988_90a9b1ac94.jpgOn June 2, James Costa and John Archibald again graciously opened their beautiful Hollywood Hills home for MFA’s star-studded Justice For All event, celebrating our important legal advocacy efforts and initiatives.

Over 200 high-profile guests from the entertainment, business and philanthropic communities sipped champagne while treated to decadent vegan hors d’oeuvres and exquisite desserts provided by the incomparable Madeline Bistro, and enjoyed delicious organic vegan wines provided by Querciabella and Frey.

Skinny Bitch co-author Rory Freedman presented Bones actress Emily Deschanel with MFA’s Compassionate Leadership Award, honoring Emily for her farmed animal advocacy leadership and accomplishments, and continued dedication and support of MFA’s mission.

The Compassionate Leadership Award acknowledges visionary leaders who are committed to inspiring millions of people to make compassionate choices and positive changes in their lives and the lives of farmed animals. Emily joins an impressive list of changemakers, including last year’s honoree Bob Barker.The beautiful bronze award plaque was handcrafted by artist and sculptor Steve Worthington. Many thanks to Steve for creating such a stunning piece for our honoree again this year!

 

Honored guests included host committee members Mikko Alanne, Dr. Jenn Berman (Host, VH1’s Couples Therapy), Karen Dawn (Author, Thanking the Monkey), Cindy Landon, Shaun Monson (Director, Earthlings), Dan Piraro, Simone Reyes (Activist, star of Running Russell Simmons), Cherie Shankar, Ari Solomon, Susan Weingartner and Brian Wendel (Producer, Forks Over Knives), and celebrity guests Steve-O, Michaela Conlin, Dr. Mike Dow, Jackson Galaxy and Fiona Gubelman.

Silent auction items included a stunning art piece by the legendary Peter Max, a complimentary week’s stay at a beautiful vacation estate in Wisconsin’s North Woods, custom jewelry and clothing, and many other exquisite items generously donated by leading cruelty-free companies and compassionate individuals.

MFA’s General Counsel Vandhana Bala updated guests on MFA’s legal advocacy initiatives, which have led to landmark criminal and civil prosecutions of factory farms, increased animal protection laws, defeat of whistleblower-suppression bills, and policy changes that improve animal welfare and consumer protections.

Executive Director Nathan Runkle encouraged attendees to lend financial support for MFA’s mission and legal advocacy efforts. Thanks to the enormous generosity of our guests and supporters, proceeds from the event reached $100,000!

Thank you to all our members, guests, and sponsors, including Ady Gil and American Hi Definition, James Costa and John Archibald, Tatiana Freitas, Deborah Wolfe (Blood Chain), VegNews, The Veggie Grill, and Upton’s Naturals.

If you weren’t able to attend the Justice For All event, but would like to become a member or support our work, please consider making a tax-deductible donation today.