When Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers step onto a stage, you know it’s going to be a moment. But this time, at the 2026 GLAAD Media Awards, they didn’t just give an acceptance speech. They delivered a masterclass in both activism and generosity—throwing $10K at Equality Kansas in the process. All while keeping things as witty as you’d expect from the Las Culturistas hosts.
Transphobia? Not on Bowen Yang & Matt Rogers’ Watch
Receiving the Stephen F. Kolzak Award for their tireless advocacy, the dynamic duo took the stage with a burning message for Kansas. The state’s recent decision to revoke trans people’s driver’s licenses? Unconscionable and inhumane, according to Rogers. And trust us, when he says something is unconscionable, you best believe it’s a problem.
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@glaad GLAAD’s Stephen F. Kolzak Award is presented to LGBTQ media professionals who have made a significant difference in raising visibility and promoting acceptance of LGBTQ people and issues. It is named in honor of the Los Angeles casting director who devoted the last part of his life to fighting homophobia and HIV stigma within the entertainment industry.
“We can’t accept this award without condemning the rampant, active transphobia from this administration,” Rogers said, making it clear they wouldn’t sit pretty in the face of such hate. And just in case anyone doubted their commitment, they also dropped a $10,000 donation to Equality Kansas. They weren’t just talking the talk—they were walking the walk, in stilettos and fabulousness.
We’re Fighting for You, Always
Then, in true Matt and Bowen style, they got personal. “If you’re in this room tonight, you are a leader in our community of LGBTQ+ people and allies,” Bowen said. And we’re all just sitting here nodding, like, yes, Bowen, we are leaders. The hosts reminded everyone that privilege comes with responsibility. “You are one of the fortunate ones who can enjoy a room like this while so many are not.” And those who aren’t in the room? “You are not alone. You are not left behind by us. You are our family, and everyone here will fight for you and alongside you.”
Queer solidarity? Check. And don’t you dare forget it.
Laverne Cox’s Standing-Ovation-Worthy Speech: The Real Tea
If the night was a symphony of activism, Laverne Cox was the star soloist. As she accepted her award for Outstanding TV Journalism Segment, the crowd erupted into a standing ovation that could probably be heard all the way to Kansas. Cox didn’t mince words, warning the room that if the political landscape keeps going in this direction, “we are on our way to a genocide of trans Americans.” Her no-holds-barred speech on the rise of American fascism, and the political agenda to “systemically dehumanize trans people,” was not for the faint of heart.
And then she dropped the mic (figuratively), hitting back at the right-wing narrative: “If conservatives actually believed they were ‘protecting women and children,’ they would prosecute the motherfuckers who are in the Epstein files.”
@glaad take five minutes and fifty six seconds of your day today to listen to @Laverne Cox’s #GLAADawards speech
Queen. Unstoppable. We are not worthy.
Sarah Kate Ellis’ Pep Talk: Gay Pride Unleashed
But the awards weren’t all hard truths. GLAAD’s CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis, took a moment to remind the crowd of what we’re all fighting for—and why we’ll win. “We know who we are,” Ellis declared. “We believe in freedom. We believe in letting people be who they are. We believe in love.” And then she went full ‘we’re the original influencers’ on us. “We are rebels. We are undeniable.” Someone cue the Drag Race sound effects, because we’re officially inspired.
So, What Did We Learn?
Bowen and Matt gave us all a powerful reminder that you can be funny, fabulous, and fight for what’s right. Meanwhile, the entire night reinforced that the LGBTQ+ community isn’t backing down, and we’re going to keep fighting for each other, no matter what. Whether it’s slinging donations to Equality Kansas, getting a standing ovation, or throwing the best birthday party ever for Liza Minnelli—this is how you use your platform for good.
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And if you’re wondering how to end an awards show, just take a page from this night: with a little activism, a lot of love, and more than a dash of fabulousness.
Source: Advocate