The Elton John Impact Awards: Honoring LGBTQ+ Icons and Allies
Renowned musician Elton John has inspired the creation of a new awards program called The Elton John Impact Awards, which aims to honor influential members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. The awards were established by iHeartMedia and P&G and will debut on June 1 as a podcast series on the iHeartRadio app and major podcast platforms, as well as an audio special on iHeartRadio PRIDE stations. The Elton John Impact Award was initially introduced in 2022 at the "Can't Cancel Pride" virtual benefit concert, where Elton John was the first recipient. The award has since evolved into the Elton John Impact Awards, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights and the fight against AIDS.
The inaugural group of honorees for the expanded awards includes Jonathan Bailey, Laverne Cox, Melissa Etheridge, Billie Jean King, Orville Peck, and Chappell Roan. Each honoree will receive a gold-plated trophy inspired by Elton John's iconic eyewear. The Elton John Impact Awards aim to acknowledge individuals whose work has inspired change and shaped culture, while also supporting LGBTQ+ organizations that uplift their communities. The awards special will be hosted by Billy Porter and Elvis Duran, featuring personal conversations with Elton John, David Furnish, and this year's honorees, who will share their personal stories and challenges.
The program's goal is to raise awareness and funding for frontline organizations supporting the LGBTQ+ community, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation and other organizations like CenterLink, GLAAD, and the Trevor Project. The Elton John Impact Awards highlight the vital work of these organizations in protecting LGBTQ+ communities and advancing health equity globally. The awards also aim to celebrate cultural icons and community organizations that inspire and support people worldwide, promoting equality and inclusion for all.
The Elton John Impact Awards website provides more information about the honorees and the organizations supported by the program. A panel of leaders, including Elton John, David Furnish, Billy Porter, Brandi Carlile, and others, selected this year's honorees. The charitable foundation partners for the event are the Elton John AIDS Foundation and the Looking Out Foundation, which have been instrumental in providing support and care for the LGBTQ+ community and addressing the stigma surrounding AIDS. The Elton John Impact Awards aim to recognize the contributions of individuals and organizations that have made a positive impact on LGBTQ+ communities and society as a whole.
For more information about The Elton John Impact Awards and to listen to the trailer for the awards program, visit eltonjohnimpactawards.com.