‘I have encountered a number of tragic stories about LGBT young people who have sadly felt unable to cope with the abuse they face in their lives’
The second-in-line to the British throne, HRH Prince William, has been given the Celebrity Straight Ally of the Year at this year’s British LGBT Awards.
The awards took place this evening at the Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden, London. Special guests included Caitlyn Jenner.
Prince William was unable to attend the event in person, but sent a video message for screening at the event.
The video is below:
‘I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone at the LGBT Awards for this incredible award. It’s a real honor to be recognized in this way,’ he says.
‘In recent years I’ve become passionate about what we can do to protect people from bullying, particularly online.
‘Through this work, I have encountered a number of tragic stories about LGBT young people who have sadly felt unable to cope with the abuse and discrimination they face in their lives. But this work has also led me to a number of inspiring people who are helping others to stand up to bullying, wherever it occurs.
‘It is 2017 and no-one should be bullied for their sexuality, or any other reason.
‘It’s so important to be proud of the person you are. I am very proud to receive this ally award. Thank you.’
In summer 2016, Prince William became the first member of the British Royal Family to grace the cover of gay magazine Attitude.
As part of his involvement, he hosted a discussion at Kensington Palace to hear more about the experiences of LGBT bullying.
In a statement, British LGBT Awards co-founder, Sarah Garrett MBE, said: ‘Prince William has used his position to promote diversity and speak out against homophobic bullying.
‘He is a very deserving winner of the ally award and it is wonderful that he took time out of his schedule to make this short video.’
Check out the other award winners here.
Gay Star News is a media partner of the Natwest British LGBT Awards.
