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Katy Perry has been rightfully honored with the Human Rights Campaign’s National Equality Award, an award dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond to dedicate their lives and efforts to the LGBTQ+ community and its causes.
Moments Leading up to the Award
Katy Perry has always been an advocate of the LGBTQ+ community and it’s made evident over the years with her many generous contributions, whether it be through her many visits to activist facilities or her powerful pro-LGBTQ+ lyrics such as in her hit single “Firework” where she encourages people to “be a champion” and show their true colors.
In addition to her public contributions and involvement, Katy Perry has personally used her fame and platform to encourage support and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. Back in 2015, she issued an official statement apologizing for her past insensitive comments and behavior, proving that she has consistently used her voice to further the advancement of human rights.
Impact of Her Contribution
Katy Perry’s actions prove that true change comes from within. Not only does her recognition as the first recipient of the Human Rights Campaign’s National Equality Award recognize her immense efforts and accomplishments, but it also serves as a statement for Perry herself, motivating her to continue pushing for change.
Moreover, Perry’s involvement has helped shine light on the LGBTQ+ community in an age that desperately needs such advocacy. In an increasingly divided society, acceptance and support of the LGBTQ+ community helps bring light to human rights issues that exist on a much wider scale.
Actions We Can Take
In order to effect positive change, it is important to recognize that true progress is a cumulative effort. Here are a few ways that we can use our individual impact to make a difference in the LGBTQ+ community:
- Educate yourself and those around you. Stay up to date on the many human rights issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community by reading literature and researching online.
- Speak up. Challenge biased views and stereotypes and respond to unhelpful or hurtful comments with small acts of kindness.
- Support LGBTQ+ businesses and organizations. Donate your time or money to efforts that are working to support the LGBTQ+ community.
- Use your platform. Share stories about LGBTQ+ causes and share messages of kindness and understanding online.
Katy Perry’s contribution to the LGBTQ+ community is an inspiring example of the power of change. By understanding the importance of the Human Rights Campaign’s National Equality Award, we can all strive to do our part in furthering the cause of human rights throughout the world.
