The Luisa Diaz Foundation Celebrates 9th Annual MAG Gala at the Iconic Plaza Hotel

Now this is a celebration Eloise would approve of!

From a fashion show and dance party to signature cocktails and a live auction, The Luisa Diaz Foundation celebrated its 9th annual Mi Amor Graciousness (MAG) Gala at The Plaza Hotel on May 18. The MAG Gala is in support of survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. This year’s theme was “a Celebration of Kindness,” and included an official proclamation from New York City marking May 18 as “Kindness is Cool Day.”

The event kicked off with an empowering “Runway of Hope.” Survivors of domestic violence, who have completed the Luisa Diaz Foundation program, strutted down the runway in beautiful gowns by designers Jovani, Anne Fontaine and Chiara Boni. The organization’s founder, Luisa Diaz, worked directly in coaching and helping the survivors build their self-esteem. According to the foundation, their walk on the runway signified “the transition from a place of darkness to one of hope and light.” The powerful moment was greeted by a standing ovation by those in attendance.

The night continued with host Ernie Anastos, Hall of Fame broadcaster, WABC radio and “Positively America” host, as well as influencer Johnny Drinks shaking up the event’s signature “Kindness is Cool” martini.

Ernie Anastos, Luisa Diaz and Alan Brown attend Luisa Diaz Foundation 9th Annual MAG Gala on May 18, 2023. (Photo by Mark Sagliocco/PMC)

Notable attendees included comedian Seth Herzog, philanthropist Jean Shafiroff, Deborah Hung, Alan Brown, Nikki Haskell, Alan Brown and former professional athlete Bryan Griffin.

The night concluded with impressive performances by Sarina the Violin Diva and DJ Show N Tell, as well as a live auction hosted by Herzog. The auction items included a beach getaway and tickets to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon as Herzog’s personal guests. The lucky bidder will also get to hang out with Herzog and his fellow comedians after the show. A chance to meet Jimmy Fallon? Take our money!

On May 23, Diaz took to Instagram to reflect on the evening. “The atmosphere was filled with love, compassion, and a shared mission to make a difference,” Diaz wrote. “From breathtaking fashion to heartfelt speeches, it was an evening that touched our souls.”

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Funds from the 2023 event will benefit three charities: Safe Passage Heals, Hope’s Door and Team TLC NYC. To learn more about The Luisa Diaz Foundation and how you can help, click here.