GLSEN, a trailblazer in championing LGBTQ+ inclusive education, marked another milestone with its annual Respect Awards at Gotham Hall in New York City on April 29, 2024.
The event celebrated individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. The evening was hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Peppermint and featured a dazzling array of special guests including Billy Porter of “Pose”, Wilson Cruz from “Star Trek: Discovery” who also chairs the GLSEN Board of Directors, and Luxx Noir London, another “Drag Race” star. Oscar and Tony Award-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden, received the Advocate Award. In a poignant acceptance speech, Harden humorously and effectively conveyed the divine love for the LGBTQ+ community, using personal anecdotes to underline the message of acceptance and love.
Wilson Cruz shared reflections on his groundbreaking role as the first openly gay teen on television, emphasizing the political significance of LGBTQ+ visibility and education. His advocacy underscored the ongoing need for inclusive educational environments that embrace all identities. The evening not only served as a fundraiser but also as a platform to reaffirm GLSEN’s vital role in fostering educational settings where every student can thrive.
Located at the heart of New York City, the event also drew other notable attendees such as Anthony Rapp, David Burtka, Nathan Lee Graham, Bradley Bredeweg, Lee Rose, and Imara Jones, each bringing their unique influence and support to the cause. GLSEN continues to lead the charge in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in K-12 education amidst increasing national challenges, ensuring that the future for these students is not only secure but vibrant.