Southern Charm New Orleans' Jared Sampson Is Getting a Major Award, with Some Help from Tamica Lee

Big things are happening for Southern Charm New Orleans pal Jared Sampson. You see, he's just days away from receiving an award from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) on July 14 at the 2018 HRC Louisiana Gala Dinner & Auction in New Orleans. And to make the prize even sweeter, his cousin, Tamica Lee will be on hand to present the award to him. 

“I knew that being a part of Southern Charm New Orleans would change my life, but I never anticipated my role on the show changing the lives of so many other people. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share my story and in the process give a voice to many who face the same struggles that I have. While I have always persevered and made the most of every opportunity, including being a part of such a profound show, it has not always been easy! I have overcome so much adversity in my life based on my race and sexual orientation,” he told The Daily Dish in a statement.

Last season on Southern Charm New Orleans, Jared discussed his sexuality and being gay, leading to a rather emotional moment with the group after Barry Smith used offensive language about his sexuality previously (clip above). About the upcoming honor, he added, “Now that I have found my voice I want to continue speaking out for equality for all who suffer in silence because the world does not always celebrate who they are. I am grateful for the Human Rights Campaign as they are providing me with an opportunity to continue a conversation that has been a long time in the making for me. I am humbled by their recognition of my strength to publicly let the world in. I want to continue being strong as there is still much work to be done to bring about real change for those who face discrimination based [on] race, sexuality, and any other unjustified reasons.”

Ahead of the event later this month, the HRC Board of Directors have also applauded Jared for his openness. “By coming out so publicly in response to such a deeply offensive slur, Jared Sampson sparked a conversation enabling a greater understanding about the discrimination and marginalization LGBTQ people face far too often in their daily lives," Lester Perryman, a member of the HRC Board of Directors who lives in New Orleans, said in a statement to The Daily Dish. "By living his truth openly and authentically, he is helping to break down barriers and give people the opportunity to grow and learn how to be a better ally to the LGBTQ community. We are proud to welcome Jared Sampson to the 2018 HRC Louisiana Gala Dinner in New Orleans.”

Check out more from the NOLA crew, below.

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