"Ugly Betty" Star Vanessa Williams To Be Honored For LGBTQ Support

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"Ugly Betty" Star Vanessa Williams To Be Honored For LGBTQ Support

Monday, 07 June 2010 11:44

The Trevor Project, the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, today announced that it will honor multi-faceted entertainer Vanessa Williams and premier retailer Macy's, Inc. at Trevor New York, the organization's 10th annual East Coast fundraising gala. The event will be held on Mon., June 28 at Capitale in New York City.

Williams, who was recently announced as the newest addition to the cast of ABC's television series, "Desperate Housewives," and also portrayed Wilhelmina Slater in the "Ugly Betty" series, has leveraged both her professional and personal influence in support of the LGBTQ community. Her role on "Ugly Betty" helped foster diversity and LGBTQ-inclusiveness on a major American television show, and she has spoken out in favor of marriage equality and adoption rights for same-sex parents. Because of this, Williams will be presented with The Trevor Hero Award, which annually honors an individual who, through his or her example, support, volunteerism and/or occupation, is an inspiration to LGBTQ youth.

"I believe strongly in the lifesaving mission of The Trevor Project and I am honored to be recognized by an organization that provides such vital programs for our youth," said Williams. "If any part of my career or the example I've set in my life had a positive impact on even one young person struggling to find acceptance and support of their sexual orientation or gender identity, then I am happy to have played even a small part in that."

Macy's, Inc. has earned an unequaled reputation not only as an iconic American retailing brand, but also as a corporate advocate of diversity leadership and multicultural marketing. Ad headlines including "Pride + Joy," "Agents of Change" and "Out and All About" convey messages to youth that shattering stereotypes and being true to oneself is not only brave, but also in vogue. Macy's, Inc. will receive The Trevor Commitment Award, which annually recognizes a company or organization that, through its policies, initiatives and other efforts, demonstrates a commitment to LGBTQ causes and is a prominent, public example of corporate acceptance of individuals regardless of sexual orientation.

"Receiving this honor from The Trevor Project validates our commitment to maintaining a brand and a shopping experience that is welcoming to all," said William Hawthorne, Macy's, Inc. senior vice president of diversity strategies. "Macy's remains a steadfast supporter of inclusiveness in all aspects of our business. We will continue to celebrate the diversity of our workforce and our customers and to support organizations that align with our company's core values."

"Vanessa Williams and Macy's, Inc. serve as prominent examples of how an individual or corporation can be a part of creating more accepting and inclusive environments for all youth, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity," said Charles Robbins, executive director and CEO, The Trevor Project. "We are proud to honor them both and are grateful for the support they have given to the LGBTQ community."

Trevor New York annually brings together top entertainers and supporters of The Trevor Project for an evening of comedy, musical performances and special honorees. This year, the Empire State Building will be lit on the evening of the event in honor of The Trevor Project. Trevor New York helps raise the financial resources necessary to fund The Trevor Project's work toward saving lives, building communities and changing society.

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