In an era where the LGBTQ+ community faces relentless challenges from the current presidential administration, GLAAD took a bold step to honor and uplift queer and trans creatives with a vibrant celebration on Thursday night, March 27, during the 2025 GLAAD Media Awards. This event was a beacon of hope and recognition for those who contribute to the diverse landscape of entertainment.
Hosted at the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, the evening celebrated an array of remarkable talents from the entertainment industry. Among the attendees were musical sensations such as Lil Nas X, Maren Morris, David Archuleta, Tanner Adell, and Jake Wesley Rogers. The highlight of the night featured Cynthia Erivo, who was honored with the prestigious Stephen F. Kolzak Award for her tireless advocacy and efforts to increase visibility for queer individuals in the entertainment sphere.
In her powerful speech, Erivo emphasized the importance of paving the way for future generations. “The real work is making the ground we leave in our wake level enough for the next person who finds their way to the path we have made,” she passionately conveyed. She encouraged all those present, stating, “This room is full of people who can and will … be lanterns to light up your journey and your path on your way to showing the world who you are.” Such words resonated deeply, highlighting the collective responsibility of the community to support each other.
Additionally, the acclaimed rapper Doechii, who is poised to be celebrated as Billboard’s Woman of the Year at the upcoming Women in Music event on March 29, also received accolades for her outstanding contributions as a music artist. In her acceptance speech, she boldly addressed the rampant anti-LGBTQ discrimination emanating from the White House. “Acceptance, inclusivity, and empowerment are the values I hold dear and advocate for with unwavering commitment, especially in these times where the hard-won cultural changes and rights for transgender individuals and the wider LGBTQ community are under threat,” she declared emphatically. “And I am disgusted. Disgusted. But I want to say that we are here and we are not going anywhere.” Her words served as a rallying cry for resilience and unity.
Below, explore a captivating gallery showcasing moments from the event, featuring icons like Erivo, Doechii, JoJo Siwa, and many more:
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Star Duo: JoJo Siwa & Kath Ebbs Shine at the GLAAD Media Awards
Image Credit: Christopher Polk JoJo Siwa and Kath Ebbs captivated the audience at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, held at The Beverly Hilton on March 27, 2025, in Los Angeles, showcasing their vibrant personalities and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
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Celebrated Ensemble: Sasheer Zamata, Patti LuPone, Joe Locke & Jac Schaeffer Unite for LGBTQ+ Visibility
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores The star-studded group, comprising Sasheer Zamata, Patti LuPone, Joe Locke, and Jac Schaeffer, made a striking appearance at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, held at The Beverly Hilton on March 27, 2025, in Los Angeles. Their presence highlighted the vital need for LGBTQ+ representation in the arts and entertainment industries.
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Dynamic Duo: Cynthia Erivo & Lil Nas X Celebrate LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Image Credit: Christopher Polk Cynthia Erivo and Lil Nas X shone brightly at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, which took place on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Their combined presence symbolizes the powerful impact of LGBTQ+ advocacy and artistry in shaping a more inclusive entertainment landscape.
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Spotlight on Michael Urie: Celebrating LGBTQ+ Representation
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores Michael Urie made a striking appearance at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, celebrated on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. His involvement underscores the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry, inspiring countless others to embrace their true selves.
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Spotlight on Doechii: A Rising Star in LGBTQ+ Music
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores Doechii made a memorable appearance at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, held on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Her presence further solidified her status as a rising star within the LGBTQ+ music scene, resonating with fans and advocates alike.
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Spotlight on Tanner Adell: Emerging Talent at the GLAAD Media Awards
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores Tanner Adell was a standout figure at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, celebrated on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. His presence highlighted the importance of emerging talents in the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to the vibrant tapestry of the entertainment industry.
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Championing LGBTQ+ Voices: Cynthia Erivo Takes Center Stage
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores Cynthia Erivo graced the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, held on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Her influential presence underscores the vital role of LGBTQ+ advocates in promoting diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.
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Spotlight on David Archuleta: A Voice for LGBTQ+ Rights
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores David Archuleta attended the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, celebrated on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. His participation highlights the importance of using one’s platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
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Cynthia Erivo: A Beacon for LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Image Credit: Christopher Polk Cynthia Erivo graced the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, held on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Her unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy shines a light on the ongoing struggle for equality and representation in the arts.
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Trailblazer Lena Waithe: Celebrating LGBTQ+ Excellence
Image Credit: Christopher Polk Lena Waithe attended the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, celebrated on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Her trailblazing efforts in the entertainment industry serve as an inspiration for many within the LGBTQ+ community.
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Dynamic Pair: Doechii & Jonathan Bennett Unite for LGBTQ+ Awareness
Image Credit: Christopher Polk Doechii and Jonathan Bennett made a memorable appearance at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, held on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Their collaboration emphasizes the collective strength of the LGBTQ+ community in advocating for visibility and equality.
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Spotlight on Doechii: A Rising Voice in LGBTQ+ Music
Image Credit: Christopher Polk Doechii was a standout at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, which took place on March 27, 2025, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. Her presence further solidified her reputation as a vibrant and influential voice within the LGBTQ+ music community.
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Celebrating Unity: Andy Short, Monét X Change, Crystal Methyd & Heidi N Closet at the GLAAD Media Awards
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