Eva Longoria feted for political activism

Actress Eva Longoria has been feted for her work as a political activist at the Women of Distinction Awards in Washington, D.C.

The former Desperate Housewives star was presented with the Dorothy I. Height Racial Justice award on Friday (07Jun13), in recognition of her philanthropy and her work to promote equal rights for all.

The glitzy event was hosted by the Young Women's Christian Association at the Hyatt Regency Washington and the organisation's CEO, Dara Richardson-Heron, has heaped praise on the actress.

A statement reads: "At a time when women are growing as a powerful force in American culture and politics, we are delighted to honor Eva Longoria for her activism, especially for her efforts to encourage all women to exercise their right to vote."

Longoria later took to her Twitter.com account to post snaps from the gala alongside the message, "Thank you for the kind and beautiful comments for the YWCA Dorothy I Height Racial Justice Award! It was an honor to be among incredible women!"