At the 35th annual GLAAD Awards, held in New York City, host Ross Matthews was interrupted by a pro-Palestine protester who accused GLAAD of complicity in genocide. Matthews awkwardly addressed the situation, highlighting the need to fight for everyone’s rights. The evening honored LGBTQ+ media and personalities, with awards going to Orville Peck and Jennifer Hudson. While the event was star-studded, many attendees were constrained by their affiliations, leading them to remain silent on current political issues.
Matthews expressed frustration at having to navigate the current divisive political climate, where sharing an opinion risks alienating half of the country. Despite this, he acknowledged the importance of using his platform to speak out when necessary. During the awards show, both Matthews and actress Jennifer Lawrence took jabs at prominent Republicans, including references to conversion therapy and the actions of some Supreme Court justices. LGBTQ+ rights are intertwined with broader social justice issues, and several guests used the event as an opportunity to subtly advocate for equality.
GLAAD, as a political organization, uses the glamour of its awards show to raise funds for initiatives supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and promoting voter engagement. Attorney General Letitia James received a particularly enthusiastic response from the audience, as she emphasized the importance of inclusivity and celebration of LGBTQ+ history. The event also featured appearances by Uma Thurman, Don Lemon, and musical performances, but the focus remained on fundraising efforts and supporting advocacy work.
The tension between maintaining neutrality and using one’s platform for advocacy was evident throughout the GLAAD Awards. While some guests, such as former “RuPaul’s Drag Race” winner Sasha Velour, emphasized the role of LGBTQ+ activists in social justice movements, others like Jaida Essence Hall highlighted the universal importance of human rights. With political issues such as the conflict in the Middle East and the upcoming election looming large, many attendees were cautious in their public statements, balancing personal beliefs with professional obligations.
Despite the challenges of navigating a politically charged atmosphere, the GLAAD Awards served as a platform for promoting LGBTQ+ visibility and advocating for equality. The event raised significant funds to support grassroots organizing, voter outreach, and ad campaigns during the election season. With a mix of celebrity appearances, powerful speeches, and moments of humor, the evening underscored the ongoing importance of LGBTQ+ advocacy in shaping social and political discourse. Attorney General Letitia James’s impassioned speech resonated strongly with the audience, highlighting the continued need for inclusive policies and celebration of diverse communities.
