GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ media advocacy organization, hosted their annual GLAAD Media Awards celebration, known as #GLAADHonors, at Irving Plaza in New York City on Friday, May 10th. This event, created by GLAAD’s Communities of Color and Media Department, aims to amplify Black queer voices and representation in entertainment and media. By celebrating Black LGBTQ nominees of the annual GLAAD Media Awards, #GLAADHonors recognizes their work and significant contributions to the Black LGBTQ+ community.
Launched in 2022, #GLAADHonors began as an intimate dinner dedicated to honoring Black queer storytelling. Due to overwhelming support and enthusiasm from the community, the event has since expanded beyond its original vision. This year’s celebration featured an array of influential Black LGBTQ figures, highlighting their impactful stories and achievements. The growth of #GLAADHonors is a testament to the community’s desire for more inclusive and representative media.
Throughout the night, attendees enjoyed performances by members of GLAAD’s second Equity in Media and Entertainment Initiative (EMEI) Cohort. These performances showcased the incredible talent within the Black LGBTQ community and emphasized the importance of diverse representation in media. In addition to the performances, the evening featured heartfelt speeches and presentations from award recipients, further underscoring the significance of the event.
Looking ahead, GLAAD plans to continue #GLAADHonors as a commitment to the community, celebrating the richness and diversity of Black queer stories. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that Black LGBTQ voices are heard and that their contributions to media and entertainment are recognized and celebrated. As #GLAADHonors grows, it will remain a vibrant showcase of talent and resilience, reinforcing the importance of representation and inclusion in media.
The evening was not just a celebration, but also a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality and representation for all members of the LGBTQ community.
