The Playboy Foundation will honor Salt Lake resident Kelli Peterson for her contributions to the First Amendment during a ceremony in New York City Wednesday.
Founder of East High's controversial Gay-Straight Alliance, Peterson will join five others "who have made significant contributions to protect and enhance First Amendment rights for Americans," according to Playboy spokeswoman Angela DePaul.Peterson caused turmoil in the 1996 Utah Legislature after she founded the alliance during the 1995-96 school year. Some state senators held a secret meeting to discuss ways to curtail such activity.
Despite pressure from lawmakers and other East students, Peterson continued to fight for the rights of other gay students in Utah and other states. The 19-year-old now attends Salt Lake Community College.
The Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Award comes with a plaque and a $5,000 check. The Playboy Foundation established the award in 1979.