GLAAD, the world’s largest media advocacy organization for the LGBTQ+ community, held its second pre-annual GLAAD Media Awards celebration on March 30, 2023. Dubbed #GLAADHonors, the star-studded event took place at Grandmaster Recorders in Hollywood, California and brought together an impressive collection of black LGBTQ+ talent from the world of media and entertainment.
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Guests included actors Javicia Leslie, Jerrie Johnson, Brandon Black, Angelica Ross, Tian Richards, Nicco Annan, Brian Michael Smith, Philemon Chambers, and Nic Ashe. Directors and filmmakers like Elegance Bratton, James Bland, Dewayne Perkins, Nneka Onuorha, and Jussie Smollett. Writers such as NY Times best-selling author George M. Johnson and history-making rapper Kidd Kenn. Models, artists, and musicians also graced the guest list, making for a truly diverse gathering of talent.
Upon arrival, guests enjoyed cocktails, networking, light bites, and music by DJ DarJar. However, the highlight of the night was the surprise announcement made by GLAAD’s Communities of Color and Media Director, DaShawn Usher. Usher revealed that GLAAD will launch its first annual Black Queer Creative Summit in Los Angeles from September 14th to 17th, 2023. The three-day summit will bring together Black LGBTQ+ creators for workshops, networking, and opportunities for personal and professional development.
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GLAAD has long been at the forefront of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. As a dynamic media force, the organization tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love.
The event was a huge success, drawing attention to the diverse voices within the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to media and entertainment. For more information about GLAAD and their ongoing efforts, visit www.glaad.org or follow them on social media @GLAAD.
