BROOKLYN, N.Y. (Diya TV) — A comedy fundraiser hosted by Padma Lakshmi has sold out weeks before its scheduled June 17 show in Brooklyn, highlighting continued support for abortion access organizations across the United States.
The event will take place at The Bell House and will raise money for the National Network of Abortion Funds, a nonprofit coalition that helps people access abortion care and reproductive health services nationwide. Lakshmi announced the sold-out event as part of her ongoing advocacy work tied to women’s health and reproductive rights. The fundraiser combines stand-up comedy with political and social activism at a time when abortion rights groups continue pushing for legal protections and financial support following major changes in U.S. abortion law.
The lineup includes comedians and entertainers Michelle Buteau, Brett Goldstein, Hasan Minhaj, Larry Owens, Reeezy, and Sydnee Washington. Comedian Jay Jurden will return as co-host alongside Lakshmi. Lakshmi also teased additional surprise guests, adding excitement around the annual-style comedy event.
Lakshmi has hosted similar fundraisers in Brooklyn in recent years. The events regularly support abortion access groups and reproductive rights organizations. They have also become part of her broader activism focused on women’s health, civil rights, and immigrant communities.
Best known for hosting the television series Top Chef and Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi, Lakshmi has increasingly used her public profile to speak out on political and social issues. She often advocates for reproductive rights, immigration reform, and health awareness through public appearances, campaigns, and nonprofit work.
Lakshmi is also a co-founder of the Endometriosis Foundation of America, which raises awareness about endometriosis and women’s health conditions. She has publicly discussed her own experiences with the disease and has encouraged better access to diagnosis and treatment for women. In addition, she serves as an ambassador and supporter for several immigration and women’s rights initiatives.
The fundraiser comes as abortion rights organizations across the country continue mobilizing legal aid, financial assistance, and grassroots support following the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade. The decision ended federal protections for abortion rights and allowed states to set their own abortion laws. Since then, several states have imposed restrictions or bans, while others have expanded abortion protections.
Groups like the National Network of Abortion Funds have played a major role in helping patients cover travel, lodging and medical costs linked to abortion care. Advocates say demand for support services has increased as access becomes more limited in several parts of the country. Public figures and entertainers have also stepped up fundraising efforts in response to the changing legal landscape. Lakshmi’s comedy fundraiser joins a growing list of celebrity-backed events supporting reproductive rights organizations.
