Beyoncé and JAY-Z Accept GLAAD Media Award

Beyoncé dedicates the 2019 Vangaurd Award to the “most fabulous gay man” she ever knew, her late uncle who passed from HIV complications.

“Beyoncé and JAY-Z are global icons and passionate defenders of human rights and acceptance for all people.”

GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis

The 30th Annual GLAAD Awards were held Thursday March 28, 2019 in Los Angeles. The power music couple were honorees of the Vanguard Award, which GLAAD says “is presented to allies who have made a significant difference in promoting acceptance of LGBTQ people.”

“When Beyoncé and JAY-Z speak, the world becomes inspired and when it comes to LGBTQ people, their voices of acceptance have been heard loud and clear. We could not be prouder to stand with them to send a message of love during the biggest LGBTQ event in the world and to honor their work to bend the arc of justice forward for LGBTQ people, people of color, and marginalized communities everywhere.”

GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis

During her awards speech, Beyoncè recognizes her late Uncle John and shares the story of his remarkable life saying he was “living his truth” in a time “when this country wasn’t as accepting” (as compared to today). She says, “witnessing his battle with HIV was one of the most painful experiences I’ve ever lived.”

Beyoncè pressed through tears saying, “I’m hopeful his struggle served to open pathsways for other young people to live more freely. LGBTQI rights are human rights” erupting the The Beverly Hilton audience in applause.

“I’m hopeful his struggle served to open pathsways for other young people to live more freely. LGBTQI rights are human rights.”

Beyoncé, accepting GLAAD Media Award’s 2019 Vanguard Award with husband JAY-Z

Congratulations to Beyoncé and JAY-Z! And hat tip to GLAAD for honoring these icons with this special recognition and award.

According to GLAAD, previous Vanguard Award honorees include Jennifer Lopez, Kerry Washington, Cher, Janet Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor, Antonio Banderas, Demi Lovato, Whoopi Goldberg, Eric McCormack, and Britney Spears.