Earlier today America’s LGBT media advocacy organization announced that it will be honoring Kerry Washington during the upcoming 26th annual GLAAD Media awards on March 21.
Emmy-nominated Kerry Washington will be receiving GLAAD’s Vanguard award, presented to people in the media industry who have significantly promoted equality. Past honorees include Jennifer Lopez, Kristin Chenoweth, Charlize Theron, Elizabeth Taylor, Antonio Banderas, Drew Barrymore, Janet Jackson, and Sharon Stone. The amazing Kerry Washington became the first woman to lead in a network TV drama since the 70s when she when she embarked on the show Scandal. Her performance on the LGBT-inclusive television series has earned her a NAACP Image Award for Best Actress as well as Golden Globe, and SAG Best Actress nominations. Along with appearing in other LGBT-inclusive projects like Peeples, She Hate Me, The Dead Girl, and Life is Hot in Cracktown, Kerry Washington actively speaks out for LGBT equality and rights and has even participated in GLAAD’s annual anti-bullying campaign, Spirit Day.
She has also spoken out against the unjust treatment of LGBTs in Russia and Africa and was appointed to the President’s committee of the Arts and Humanities in 2009 by President Obama. GLAAD CEO and President Sarah Kate Ellis said:
Throughout her illustrious career, Kerry Washington has consistently brought life to characters that encourage acceptance of LGBT people and her outspoken support for equality, both here at home and abroad, has sent messages of hope and empowerment to fans all over the world, fostering dialogue that builds understanding and helps move hearts and minds.
Washington truly is an inspiration and continues to be as she advocates for the equality of everyone regardless of sexual orientation.To get more updates about the GLAAD Media Awards visit here.
-Nishat Baig
