The Red Shoes Gala is an event that sparks excitement and support for the FASD community, and, as our largest fundraising event of the year, for the work of FASD United. As we give FASD a seat at the table we want to emphasize building a supportive community and how it feels to be around the table as a unified group. People from all walks of life, including self-advocates, politicians, professionals, and caregivers, join in person for a meaningful and dazzling night. 

Last year’s gala helped celebrate and acknowledge the 50th year of FASD advocacy in the United States, and we heard from policymakers involved in the FASD Respect Act 2.0 (H.R. 3946/S.1800), bi-partisan legislation co-sponsored in the Senate by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R–Alaska)and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) and in the House of Representatives by Representative Betty McCollum (D-Minnesota, 4th District) and Representative Don Bacon (R- Nebraska, 2nd). FASD United’s Media Director Casidee Gonzales expresses, “The previous Red Shoes Gala was a beautiful and powerful gathering of all kinds of people, to join in recognizing and raising support for FASD. It was an honor to attend, and although my red heels were swapped out mid-night for comfort, I felt the spirit of advocacy and what red shoes mean in the air and in passionate conversations. 

In 2013, a FASD self-advocate decided to wear red shoes to stand out, catch someone’s eye, and therefore start conversations about FASD. Since then, red shoes have been adopted as an international symbol of FASD advocacy. This gala is incredibly important in furthering FASD United’s mission of creating a united movement that fulfills the promise of prevention and meets the needs of the courageous and deserving children, adults, and families living with FASDs.

Our social media associate, Olivia Gargiulo, stated, “I was fortunate enough to join the FASD United team this spring as an intern and got to be involved in finding some of our wonderful sponsors for the live auction. Throughout my time at FASD United, I gained so much knowledge about FASD, the FASD community and more. I hope that you join us in a celebration of the FASD community and to support the mission of FASD United.”

This year’s gala will be held in Washington, D.C. at the National Press Club during FASD Impact Week, and offers the community the amazing opportunity to spend time “Together Around the Table” with experts, policy advocates, organization supporters, and people with living experience. The Red Shoes Gala is a time of connection and exhilaration that features a silent auction, delicious dinner, engaging speakers, and a live auction you don’t want to miss! Plus, black tie optional means you can wear your gaudiest dress clothes or take the comfy route and wear your favorite red tennis shoes. Whatever you decide, we’re here to engage around the table with you. 

We know “fundraiser” can mean many things to different people. While we are, as always, thrilled to have any support from our community, we do not expect it. Come as you are, ready to have enthralling conversations with passionate people together around the table and know FASD United has saved you a seat.