Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers Stand Against Transphobia at GLAAD Media Awards

At the 37th Annual GLAAD Media Awards held at the Beverly Hilton, Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, hosts of the Las Culturistas podcast, publicly condemned recent legislative actions in Kansas that revoked transgender individuals' driver's licenses. In response, they announced a donation of $10,000 to Equality Kansas, emphasizing their commitment to fighting transphobia. Yang and Rogers described the Kansas legislature's actions as "unconscionable and inhumane," highlighting the urgent need for solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community.

The Advocate

The Kansas legislature's decision to revoke driver's licenses for transgender individuals has sparked significant backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates. This legislative move is seen as part of a broader trend of anti-trans policies being enacted across various states in the U.S., which critics argue contribute to systemic discrimination and dehumanization of transgender people.

The Advocate

During the awards ceremony, Laverne Cox, who received a standing ovation for her acceptance speech, warned of the potential for a "genocide of trans Americans" if current political trends continue. She criticized the right-wing political agenda that seeks to undermine the rights and dignity of trans individuals, asserting that true protection for women and children would involve holding accountable those implicated in high-profile abuse cases.

The Advocate

Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, reinforced the importance of community in combating misinformation about LGBTQ+ individuals, stating, "We know who we are... We believe in letting people be who they are." This sentiment echoed throughout the event, as speakers called for unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

The Advocate

While the GLAAD Media Awards celebrated LGBTQ+ achievements and advocacy, there remains a significant divide in public opinion regarding transgender rights. Critics of the Kansas legislation argue that such policies are necessary for safeguarding women's rights, a perspective that has been met with strong opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates who view these measures as discriminatory.

The Advocate

• "We can’t accept this award without condemning the rampant, active transphobia from this administration and its supporters." — Matt Rogers, Co-host of Las Culturistas

The Advocate

• "Nothing that is going on should be normalized. Experts are saying we are on our way to a genocide of trans Americans." — Laverne Cox, Actress and Activist

The Advocate

• "You make me so proud because you're strong and you stand up for what you believe." — Liza Minnelli, Actress and Singer

The Advocate

The GLAAD Media Awards served as a platform for advocates to voice their concerns about the increasing anti-trans sentiment in the U.S. The donation by Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers to Equality Kansas symbolizes a commitment to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities. As the conversation around LGBTQ+ rights continues, the need for solidarity and advocacy remains paramount in the face of legislative challenges.

The Advocate