Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin: Advocating for LGBTQ+ Rights Amid Political Concerns

Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin are set to receive the 2026 Nancy Pelosi Equality Ally Award from Equality PAC, which honors public figures for their dedication to LGBTQ+ rights. The award will be presented at the National Pride Gala in Washington, D.C., in June. Equality PAC co-chairs, Representatives Mark Takano and Ritchie Torres, praised Rinna and Hamlin for their significant contributions to affirming the dignity and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals over the years. Rinna expressed her admiration for Nancy Pelosi, stating that receiving the award holds personal significance for her.

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In a recent interview, Rinna articulated her concerns regarding the current political landscape, suggesting that the United States is experiencing an authoritarian shift. She emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, “Why aren’t people just talking about the authoritarian takeover that’s happening right in front of our eyes?” Hamlin echoed her sentiments, describing the situation as a “full-on Hitlerian authoritarian takeover” and highlighting the targeting of marginalized groups, particularly transgender individuals, as part of a broader strategy to instill fear.

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Rinna's advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community is deeply personal, as she considers many LGBTQ+ individuals among her closest friends. She believes that those in public positions have a responsibility to speak out against injustices. “I just try to speak out, speak my mind, support, and stand up for everyone that doesn’t have the same voice or is too fearful to do it,” Rinna stated, emphasizing her commitment to protecting those who are marginalized.

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Hamlin has been closely monitoring global political developments, citing the recent election in Hungary as both a cautionary tale and a source of hope. The ousting of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his anti-LGBTQ+ policies, has been viewed as a potential turning point. Hamlin remarked, “That shows us that we can reverse this trend, that we can take our country back,” while also acknowledging that such changes require time and sustained effort.

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Both Rinna and Hamlin stress the importance of vocal advocacy in the face of political challenges. Hamlin reflected on the long-term implications of inaction, asking, “When our kids or our grandkids ask, ‘What did you do at that moment when democracy was being stolen?’” He underscored that silence is not neutral and that active participation in the fight for equality is essential.

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• “We’ve ended up in a really bad place,” — Lisa Rinna

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• “If we can make enough noise so that people recognize that this is another step toward making the LGBTQ community completely accepted,” — Harry Hamlin

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As Rinna and Hamlin prepare to receive the Nancy Pelosi Equality Ally Award, their commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights reflects a broader concern about the political climate in the United States. Their voices serve as a reminder of the importance of allyship and the ongoing struggle for equality in the face of adversity.

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