GLAAD Media Awards New York

GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ media advocacy organization has announced that filmmaker, director & screenwriter Ava DuVernay will be honored at the 29th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in NYC at the New York Hilton Midtown on Saturday May 5th. GLAAD previously announced that Samira Wiley will receive the Vito Russo Award for her LGBTQ advocacy. DuVernay will receive GLAAD's Excellence in Media Award which is presented to media professionals who have made a significant difference in promoting acceptance of LGBTQ people. Previous Excellence in Media Award honorees include Robert De Niro, Kelly Ripa, Patti LaBelle, Debra Messing, Tyra Banks, Julianne Moore, Glenn Close, Barbara Walters, Joy Behar, Billy Crystal, Vanessa Redgrave & Diane Sawyer. Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD President & CEO stated, “Ava DuVernay is a tireless & outspoken advocate for inclusion in Hollywood for all marginalized groups – not to mention a personal hero of mine. She is truly changing the entertainment industry for the better & we could not be more pleased to be honoring her.” Ava DuVernay is an Academy Award nominated, Emmy-winning & critically-acclaimed filmmaker & powerhouse whose efforts are moving the needle for inclusion in Hollywood. Through her commitment to inclusion, DuVernay has supported the careers of LGBTQ talent in front of & behind the camera, including on her hit OWN drama Queen Sugar, where she created a storyline featuring a trans character portrayed by a trans actor & has worked to include LGBTQ directors from day one.
For More Info & Tix: glaad.org
LISTEN: ClexaCon Celebrities Talk Media LGBTQ Inclusion & More