Cynthia Erivo Takes the Stage at the 2025 GLAAD Awards: A Powerful Message for the Non-Binary Community and Beyond

In an electrifying moment at the 2025 GLAAD Media Awards, Wicked star Cynthia Erivo boldly proclaimed her support for the non-binary community, delivering an impassioned speech that left the audience at the ceremony—and fans across the globe—speechless. As she received the Stephen F. Kolzak Award, Erivo used her platform to speak out about the importance of being true to oneself, offering a raw, honest reflection on the struggles faced by those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in Los Angeles, the 36th annual GLAAD Media Awards were a celebration of the best in LGBTQ+ media, and Erivo’s presence at the event was nothing short of monumental. As the host, Michael Urie, introduced her to the stage, it was clear that this was not just another award ceremony—it was a moment for an influential star to speak up about representation, identity, and the importance of accepting one’s authentic self.

Erivo’s Bold Speech and the Fight for Authenticity

Cynthia Erivo, known for her roles in Wicked and Harriet, received the prestigious Stephen F. Kolzak Award, an honor bestowed upon openly queer individuals in the entertainment or media industry who have worked tirelessly to combat homophobia. The award is named after a legendary Los Angeles casting director who dedicated his life to fighting homophobia and HIV stigma within the entertainment industry. In accepting this honor, Erivo shared her deeply personal journey as a bisexual woman and gave a powerful voice to those struggling to fully embrace their true selves.

“I have spoken about being your whole self and your true self,” Erivo said, pausing to reflect on the importance of these words. “I speak about the prizes that come from being you against the odds.” But Erivo didn’t sugarcoat her message. “But rarely do I acknowledge how hard it can be,” she continued, offering an honest and heartfelt acknowledgment of the difficulties that come with living as one’s authentic self.

Erivo’s words resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community and beyond as she touched on the challenges of living openly as a queer person. “I thought I would make some room for those of us who are trying to find the courage to exist as we want,” she stated, urging the audience to remember that the journey toward self-acceptance isn’t always an easy one. She highlighted the daily struggles of individuals who are constantly fighting for recognition and respect in spaces where they feel unwelcome.

A Call for Visibility: Supporting the Non-Binary and Marginalized Voices

In her emotional speech, Erivo didn’t just speak for herself—she amplified the voices of those who are often overlooked in mainstream conversations about LGBTQ+ rights. She acknowledged the immense difficulty of “proclaiming a space belongs to you when you don’t feel welcomed,” and emphasized the exhaustion that comes with constantly educating others about personal identity.

“There are so many people in this room who understand that frustration,” Erivo said, drawing attention to the everyday battles many face in trying to assert their identity, whether that’s in relation to gender or other facets of their sexuality. She went on to specifically address the challenges faced by non-binary individuals, stating, “Dealing with the frustration of reteaching people a word that has been in the human vocabulary since the dawn of time: they/them.”

By speaking out for non-binary individuals and others who do not fit neatly into the traditional binary framework, Erivo’s speech became a rallying cry for inclusion and acceptance. She celebrated those who have found the strength to live openly and proudly but also recognized the painful reality that not everyone in the LGBTQ+ community feels “seen,” even within their own circles.

Erivo’s Personal Journey and Relationship with Lena Waithe

In her acceptance speech, Erivo’s commitment to authenticity was also reflected in her own relationship. She is currently in a relationship with actress, producer, and screenwriter Lena Waithe, a powerful force in Hollywood in her own right. The couple has been together since 2020, having met at the 2018 Met Gala. Their relationship has been one of open admiration and support, and the two have become a beacon of representation for queer women of color in the entertainment industry.

Erivo’s vulnerability in sharing her personal journey, both professionally and privately, added a layer of authenticity to her speech that struck a chord with many. Her powerful words not only addressed the challenges that come with being openly queer in Hollywood but also offered hope and inspiration for others to embrace their true selves, regardless of the obstacles they may face.

The Importance of Representation and Fighting for Change

Erivo’s speech wasn’t just a reflection on her journey—it was also a call to action for others to continue the fight for equality and visibility. By accepting the Stephen F. Kolzak Award, Erivo not only celebrated her own success but also honored the legacy of those who have paved the way for greater inclusion and acceptance within the entertainment industry. The speech served as a reminder that there is still much work to be done when it comes to dismantling the barriers faced by marginalized communities, especially in media.

Her unapologetic stance and powerful message highlighted the ongoing need for fair representation, not just in terms of gender and sexual orientation but also in the way the entertainment industry handles stories about marginalized communities. By taking the stage and using her platform to speak truth to power, Erivo has shown that she is not only a brilliant performer but also a passionate advocate for change.

Conclusion: A Moment of Empowerment and Change

Cynthia Erivo’s powerful acceptance speech at the 2025 GLAAD Media Awards was a moment of empowerment that left a lasting impact on everyone who witnessed it. Her words about the difficulty of living as one’s true self, the challenges faced by non-binary individuals, and the need for greater visibility and respect for the LGBTQ+ community resonated deeply with those who have struggled for acceptance and equality.

Erivo’s bravery in speaking out for marginalized voices and challenging societal norms continues to make her a leading figure in both the entertainment industry and the fight for social justice. As her career continues to shine and her advocacy efforts grow, Erivo’s legacy will undoubtedly be defined not just by her artistic accomplishments but by her unwavering commitment to inclusivity, equality, and self-expression.

Her speech at the GLAAD Media Awards was more than just a moment of recognition—it was a bold declaration of support for a community in desperate need of visibility and understanding. With Erivo leading the charge, the conversation around representation in Hollywood is set to evolve, and the future looks brighter for those who, like her, dare to be unapologetically themselves.