Michelle Visage was awarded the Straight Ally Award at this weekend's first Icon Awards Gala in Glasgow, Scotland. The award goes to someone who represents diversity and inclusion in their support for LGBTI people around the world. Conchita Wurst was also honored at the event with the Special Rising Star award.
Event manager and organizer Michael MacFarlane praised Visage, stating:
"Michelle has long been a defender of gay rights, especially within the drag and transgender communities across the world, and is a role model to many globally. We believe her role has not only helped, but empowered so many people here in Scotland, and the rest of the U.K., she is a modern-day 'gay icon" and we can't wait to welcome her back to Glasgow."
Known for her roles on RuPaul's Drag Race and Celebrity Big Brother, Visage happily accepted the award, stating:
"I am truly honored that The Icon Awards have chosen to award me as their first ally winner, and I am truly excited to be coming to Glasgow for the final. The LGBTI community has been loyal to me since I started in this business in 1989 and has never left my side. I have so much love, respect, compassion and admiration for you all, across the globe. I will continue to not only support, but champion LGBTI rights across the world, in the hopes that one, day gay hate crimes and having to fight for equal rights is a thing of the past. We have come a long way, but have so much further to go and together we will succeed."