Beyoncé said she was overwhelmed. “I would say that one of the most beautiful memories of my tour was looking out from the stage every night and seeing the hardest gangsta trappin’ right next to the most fabulous queen,” she said. “Respecting and celebrating each other.”
Someone from the audience shouted “That’s how we do!” – a sentiment Beyoncé then echoed back.
“We’re here to promote love for every human being,” Beyoncé continued. “And change starts with supporting the people closest to you. So let’s tell them they are loved. Let’s remind them that they are beautiful, let’s speak out and protect them. And parents, let’s love our kids in their truest form. … I’d like to request that we continue to shift the stigmas in this community, especially the stigmas in black families towards queer black and brown men and women.”
She dedicated the award to her uncle Johnny, who she called “the most fabulous gay man I’ve ever met.” “He lived his truth, he was brave and unapologetic during a time when this country wasn’t as accepting. And witnessing his battle with HIV was one of the most painful experiences I’ve ever lived,” she said, her voice choking up.