Oprah Winfrey and Niecy Nash-Betts Honored at the 35th Annual GLAAD Media Awards

Oprah Winfrey, Niecy Nash-Betts and others were honored Thursday at the 35th annual GLAAD Media Awards, celebrating LGBTQ+ representation in media over the past 12 months and beyond.

The stars descended on the Beverly Hilton on Thursday GLAAD Media Awardswhich since 1990 has honored “media for fair, accurate and inclusive portrayal of LGBTQ people and issues.” One of the evening’s biggest winners, Winfrey, took the stage and delivered a strong and moving speech to the audience, stuffed with emotion in honor of her brother Jeffrey Lee, who died of AIDS 35 years ago.

“Growing up at that time, in our community, we didn’t know the language that would allow us to understand and talk about sexuality and gender in the way we do now,” she explained, accepting the Vanguard Award. “At the time, I didn’t understand how deeply my brother had internalized the shame he felt about being gay. I wish he could have lived to see these liberated times and be here with me tonight.

She then recalled how she has used her platform throughout her profession, particularly on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” to coach and make clear the lives of the LGBTQ+ community on this country.

“I know for sure that when we can see each other, when we are open to supporting the truth about another person,” she concluded. “It gives us all full, rich and vibrant lives. This is what I want my brother Jeffrey to experience – a world that could see him for who he was and appreciate him for what he brought to this world. I am proud of this honor.”

While accepting the Stephen F. Kolzak Award, Nash-Betts spoke about her journey along with her sexuality, saying, “To be honest, I’ve never seen life like this with my own eyes. I have always been an ally, but now I am a card-carrying member!”

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She then added that they often ask her what it was like when she got here out, to which she replies, “Where did she come from, honey”? I never had anywhere to go! I have never lived a lifetime of sexual repression. I mean, I loved boys until I did this! I loved them until I met the most beautiful soul I even have ever met.

Finally, she thanked everyone for giving her a spot until she “set her terms.” She added: “I do know for a proven fact that my name is Niecy Nash-Betts and I’m a lover. I won’t ever hide what I used to be created to do.

Other big winners of the night included “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” which won outstanding reality competition show. The acclaimed Showtime series “Yellowjackets” won Best Drama Series, and the teen film “Bottoms” starring Ayo Edebiri won Best Picture – Wide Theatrical Release.

Read more about GLAAD and the media awards, including more of the night’s winners, Here.