Marcia Gay Harden to Receive Advocate Award During GLSEN’s Respect Awards in New York

LGBTQ advocate Marcia Gay Harden is being singled out for her work on behalf of the community.

GLSEN, the education organization dedicated to creating safe and inclusive K-12 schools and learning environments for LGBTQ youth, has zeroed in on the Oscar-winning actress to receive an advocate award at its upcoming Respect Awards.

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The fundraiser is set to be held at New York’s Gotham Hall on April 29. Performer and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Peppermint is booked to host the show, which will feature appearances by Billy Porter, Anthony Rapp and GLSEN board chair Wilson Cruz. Also during the event, community leader Brad Baumoel will receive a movement leader award, Republic Records will be presented with a visibility award and Sophia T. will receive a student advocate award.

In announcing the trophy for Harden, GLSEN detailed that Harden has shown a dedication to raising up LGBTQ voices and advocating for affirming legislation such as the Equality Act. Harden’s activism is traced back to her role as a supportive mother to three children, all of whom identify with and advocate for the LGBTQ community.

“I owe this award to my children, who drive me every day to be a public force for change,” Harden said in a statement. “In watching them bloom into the vibrant individuals they have become, I have gained a redefined perspective on my own life. GLSEN’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ students comes at a crucial time when our LGBTQ+ children are under attack. We must now advocate for their freedom to form their own identities and perspectives, which must be cultivated with utmost care.”

The benefit raises funds for GLSEN’s student programs, such as the Rainbow Library, which provides LGBTQ-affirming texts to students experiencing book bans. Guests will be treated to performances by the Scarlet Opera and DJ Bright Light Bright Light. The Respect Awards — produced by Los Angeles-based live event and entertainment agency JJLA — are supported by Hollister, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Republic Records, NBA, WNBA, Meta, CBS, DeutscheBank and TransLash. Additional sponsors include Nickelodeon and Pair Eyewear.

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