32nd GLAAD Media Awards Celebrate Transgender Youth

The 32nd Annual GLAAD Media Awards took place virtually April 8. The award show honors the best media representation for LGBTQ community.

The virtual show was hosted by Niecy Nash and featured musical performances by Rebecca Black, Jessica Bet’s, and Chika. The show also featured famous LGBTQ presenters to announce the winners.

The show celebrated representation in media, but there were times where the guests and recipients gave impassioned speeches about the discrimination the community faces. Stars specifically spoke out in support of trans youth during a year that has seen a slew of anti-trans bills being put up by conservatives all over the U.S. These bills aim to take rights away from trans youth by denying them healthcare, denying their opportunity to compete in sports, and banning them from using their own restrooms.

During her acceptance speech for Outstanding Documentary Feature for Disclosure, Laverne Cox spoke in support of the trans youth, and gave a message of resiliency.

“We are looking for people to move beyond acceptance to radical acceptance, to radical self-love. To the trans youth watching right now, we want you to know that you’re anointed, that despite all of the attacks that might be happening against you, you are divine. You deserve to be. You are here for a reason. You must survive to fulfill that divine purpose. I love you!” Cox said.

Presenting the award for Outstanding Film, athletes Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger, both of the U.S Women’s Soccer Team, gave messages of support for trans athletes facing discrimination.

“As LGBTQ athletes and new, super tired moms, we really wanted to stand up for the youngest members of our community,” they said. “The two of us—and Uncle Kyle—are speaking out on behalf of all of the trans student athletes out there. Trans students want the opportunity to play sports for the same reason other kids do: to be a part of a team where they feel like they belong. We shouldn’t discriminate against kids and ban them from playing because they’re transgender.”

Also during the show was a tribute to Glee star Naya Rivera, who passed away last year. The entire cast of Glee reunited to pay homage to her.

Winners at the GLAAD Media Awards include Sam Smith for Outstanding Musical Artist, Lilly Singh for Outstanding Variety or Talk Show Episode, Happiest Season for Outstanding Film, and Schitt’s Creek for Outstanding Comedy show. You can watch the full awards show below.

Image Courtesy of GLAAD