Both Beyoncé and JAY-Z are well-known for using their platform to help those in need, and now they'll be receiving the Vanguard Award at the 30th Annual GLAAD Media Awards. The Beverly Hilton-based event will take place in Los Angeles on Mar. 28, 2019, and while it's unclear if Bey and JAY themselves will make an appearance, the award will celebrate their allyship to the LGBTQ community.
"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 said as Variety reports. "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." Both of the artists are being celebrated for their outspoken stance on marriage equality as well as their continued efforts for inclusivity in their work.
JAY previously received a Special Recognition Award from GLAAD in 2018 for his song "Smile," which featured his mother Gloria Carter coming out as a lesbian. She accepted the award that year for sharing her story in the song and video. Beyoncé, meanwhile, notably dedicated one of her performances during her Formation World Tour to the victims of the Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting. She also featured transgender actress Laverne Cox as one of the models for her clothing line Ivy Park.
Previous winners of the Vanguard Award include Cher, Janet Jackson, Whoopi Goldberg, Demi Lovato, Elizabeth Taylor, Antonio Banderas, and Jennifer Lopez.
