Good evening everyone.  I am David Bohnett, Chairman of the David Bohnett Foundation.  For over 20 years, the Bohnett Foundation has been passionately committed to fighting the epidemic of gun violence, and we’re thrilled to sponsor this year’s Brady National Action Award.

The National Action Award honors those who make their voice heard, resulting in national impact, truly an embodiment of Brady’s Take Action Not Sides mantra.  It also reminds me of words I spoke 5 years ago when I was honored at this same event – the only chance we have of defeating gun violence is a greater level of personal involvement and civic engagement.  It is necessary now, more than ever, that those with the power to move our nation toward social good, use their voice and wield that power to engage and inspire others to be part of making a better tomorrow a reality.

I’m honored to introduce the incomparable Julia Louis-Dreyfus who will present this evening’s National Action Award to Stacey Abrams.

It’s fitting that one of the most decorated women in American Television history, and a recipient of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people, presents this honor to Ms. Abrams. Julia unabashedly speaks out on behalf of her beliefs and by sheer determination works to make our country a better place. It’s that same indomitable will to bring about change that is part of Brady’s DNA, as well as the very core of this evening’s National Action honoree, Stacey Abrams. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming Ms. Julia Louis-Dreyfus — one-time Madame President on our TV screens, but always a shining star in the American entertainment industry.