Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images via ABCBritney Spears has long been an ally of the LGBTQ community, and now GLAAD is going to thank her for it.
At the 29th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, scheduled for April 12 in L.A., Britney will receive the Vanguard Award, presented to celebrities who’ve made a difference in promoting equality and acceptance of LGBTQ people. Past honorees include Cher, Janet Jackson, Demi Lovato and Jennifer Lopez.
In a statement, GLAAD President Sarah Kate Ellis says, “An irrefutable icon, Britney Spears has entertained the world while also embodying the spirit of GLAAD’s Vanguard Award by speaking out on significant issues that face her fans — from the Dream Act to anti-transgender bills in Texas.”
Adds Ellis, “She is a force in the music world who has used her global platform to share messages of love and acceptance, something that the world needs today more than ever.”
GLAAD also provided some examples of Britney putting her money where her mouth is:
–In 2015, she promoted the anti-bullying campaign Spirit Day by having a meet-and-greet for LGBTQ fans in Las Vegas. She also distributed anti-bullying materials to the audience.
–In 2016, Britney was one 20 music artists who appeared on the charity song “Hands,” released in the wake of the Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting.
–Britney was one of 140 entertainers to sign an open letter against two anti-LGBTQ bills targeting transgender youth in Texas; they were later defeated.
–During LGBTQ Pride Month last year, Britney wrote a letter to the community, published on Billboard, that said, in part, “…it’s actually you that lifts me up. The unwavering loyalty. The lack of judgment. The unapologetic truth…Your stories are what inspire me, bring me joy, and make me and my sons strive to be better people.”
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