Daniel Franzese, the host of the 2015 GLAAD Gala San Francisco, has been a tremendous asset in the journey for accelerated LGBT acceptance over the past few years. Whether it be through his role as Eddie in the hit TV series Looking or his activism with The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, he has taken it upon himself to advance the acceptance of an entire community through various channels.

Earlier this month, GLAAD was honored to have Franzese as the host of the annual GLAAD Gala San Francisco. The event hosted many members of the LGBT community and their allies as a night to celebrate the advancement of the community over the past year. Watch the video below to see some of the highlights of the night.

As an ambassador for The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, Franzese has assisted the organization in their work towards the elimination of HIV and AIDS once and for all. By raising awareness of the still-prevalent disease, he has helped lessen the stigma that surrounds HIV and AIDS as a means of moving towards a cure. Many have recognized his activism in his roles as well, specifically in Looking, where he played one of the only HIV+ characters to be represented in television in the past few years.

Franzese has said the following about his ambassadorship with The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation: "To be given this great position as ambassador is a gift. Once I realized all there was to learn I became eager to teach others. One of the most incredible things I've found is how far Ms. Taylor's legacy has reached. Her unwavering voice and tireless hours of commitment and dedication have lit a fire still burning around the world. Movies made Elizabeth Taylor an unforgettable legend but her work for HIV and AIDS has made her an undeniable hero."

For more information on HIV and AIDS, read GLAAD’s media resource kit or visit www.glaad.org/HIV to watch the latest PSA.