About

Paul Katami and Jeff Zarrillo began their journey together in 2001.

Having wanted to marry each other since 2008, they considered options including traveling to other states for a civil union, but felt any alternative fell short of full marriage equality. Jeff and Paul took a very private thing like their love and made it very public by filing a federal lawsuit against Proposition 8 in California. They took the case all the way to the United States Supreme Court and won a landmark decision that restored marriage rights for same-sex couples in California. On June 28, 2013, Paul and Jeff were married at Los Angeles City Hall by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. The couple’s journey has directly impacted the lives of millions of Americans who have battled for full federal recognition. Paul and Jeff motivate and inspire through countless speaking engagements as well as panel appearances for their award-winning HBO Documentary “The Cast Against 8,” which chronicles their journey to win marriage equality for the LGBT community.

Jeff and Paul continue to amplify the message of equality with numerous motivational speeches and media appearances including:

They recently received the Human Rights Campaign’s National Equality Award; were named “Californians of the Year” for 2013; received the Courage Campaign’s “Spirit of Courage” Award in 2013; named to the “OUT100” by OUT magazine in 2013; were in the top 10 candidates for The Advocate’s 2013 “Person of the Year” honor; and were honored by the LA City Council for advancement of LGBT rights for the Prop. 8 lawsuit.

Together they have shown that ordinary people can do extraordinary things with the help of family and community. They are working to advance equality in all aspects of life for the LGBT community and communicating the idea that having the courage to stand up is contagious.

Services

Paul Katami and Jeff Zarrillo have taken a singular fight and found the universal themes that touch every population. Speaking engagements are customized for time, theme and content. Paul and Jeff have a way with an audience that inspires, welcomes thoughtful interaction, and encourages lots of laughter and emotion.

Trusted by many to present and speak, Paul and Jeff have created programs that are insightful, moving, and motivating on many levels. Service list includes: