Trans Kids Jazz and Coy Honored at the NYC GLAAD Awards

GLAAD President Herndon Graddick focuses on Trans issues at the GLADD Awards

At the 24^th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York this past weekend, GLAAD President Herndon Graddick spoke about the evolving mission of the organization, and the importance of the transgender community in his vision for the future of equality. During his opening speech, Graddick was joined onstage by transgender model and advocate Lauren Foster, as well as film director and GLAAD Ally Award recipient Brett Rattner. “If I could get five things done as the head of GLAAD, one of those would be make life better for transgender people across the country,” said Graddick.”And I don’t think we’ve done enough. And so, that’s why I’m getting up here to say that, the new GLAAD is making transgender equality a priority, and a priority in a way that it’s never been before.”

Later in his speech, Graddick invited two transgender young people, Jazz and Coy, to join him on the stage with their families. “Jazz fought tirelessly to be treated like any other girl,” Graddick said. “And 12-year-old Jazz, by owning her own power, is winning.”

Speaking about the story of 6-year-old Coy Mathis, who was denied access to the girl’s bathroom at her school, Graddick added, “Thanks to GLAAD, Coy’s story has been seen on the Katie Couric Show and CNN, and tens of thousands have already signed a Change.org petition, demanding her school take her out of harm’s way and do the right thing.” He then urged those attending the show to sign the petition and support Coy.

For additional photos and to read the full article visit Gladd.org