Gay Officers Action League
Annual Awards Gala
2026 Honorees
Detective Brian Downey
Laurel Hester Award
For a decade, Brian Downey led GOAL through growth, visibility, and institutional impact. His leadership strengthened the organization internally and elevated its voice externally. This award recognizes sustained vision, steadiness, and service.
Detective Dominick Martorelli
Charles H. Cochrane Award
As the Department’s LGBTQIA+ Liaison, Dominick Martorelli has advanced equality through practical engagement and institutional partnership. His work bridges policy and people — and reflects the courage embedded in this award’s legacy.
Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch
Sam Ciccone Community Service Award
Commissioner Tisch is recognized for her leadership and commitment to community partnership. Her engagement with issues affecting LGBTQIA+ public safety professionals reflects a broader dedication to service and institutional progress.
2026 Annual Awards Gala
April 17 · Sony Hall
Join GOAL for a night of honor, community, and sparkle. On April 17 at Sony Hall, we come together to celebrate standout leadership, trailblazing service, and the power of LGBTQIA+ visibility in law enforcement.
This year’s honorees:
Detective Brian Downey — former President of GOAL — for a decade of visionary leadership and unwavering service.
Detective Dominick Martorelli — the Department’s LGBTQIA+ Liaison — for his partnership and impactful work advancing equality within law enforcement.
Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch — for her leadership, community partnership, and extraordinary commitment to service.
And hosting the evening — with glamour, wit, and just the right dose of camp — is drag entertainer Countess Mascara, as Master of Ceremonies.
Expect glamour. Expect applause. Expect drag — because this is how we celebrate. And yes, we tip our queens.
The Gala is GOAL’s primary fundraiser of the year. Proceeds directly support our advocacy, programming, and member services.
Dress well. Show up proud. Celebrate with us.