The fight for equality never stops.
Although Pride Month may be over, it's more important now than ever to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Many notable queer celebrities partook in this year's annual Can't Cancel Pride event last month in Los Angeles. From superstar performers to television royalty, the star-studded event brought important awareness to the current climate facing the community.
Speaking of royalty, reigning queen Sasha Colby is putting in the work since her historical win earlier this year on RuPaul's Drag Race.
"They are making us work for our Pride. When we're doing the right thing, we're met with a lot of resistance. Keep staying joyful. Keep being happy, because that's the biggest protest you can do," Colby says.
Sasha Colby Talks 'Drag Race' Reign & The Importance of Pride Monthyoutu.be
Can't Cancel Pride also serves as a fundraiser for notable LGBTQ+ charities including GLAAD, The Trevor Project, National Black Justice Coalition, SAGE, Centerlink, OutRight International, and more.
JoJo Siwa hosted this year's event for the second year in a row and brought back her signature style and energy to the stage.
"I wouldn't miss it for the world. Unfortunately in the world right now, it might be hard to come out. That is a very real thing," Siwa says. "Once you get the chance [to come out], you have to take it and run with it. We do only get this one life. There's never going to be a right time, there's just going to be a brave enough time. When that moment comes, take it."
JoJo Siwa Shares a Powerful Message for LGBTQ+ Youthyoutu.be
This year's lineup of performers included plenty of A-list singers who brought a ton of energy to the Can't Cancel Pride stage.
Billy Porter was one of the celebs who pulled out all the stops when performing his new single "Baby Was a Dancer."
"I have been out, loud and proud since the 80's. When I came out, we had to go straight to the frontlines to fight for our lives. I'm triggered by what's going on right now politically, not just in America, but in the world. It's time to show up again and get up in these streets. We must come together and make sure that we hold on to the rights that we fought so vigorously for," Porter says.
Billy Porter Calls on the LGBTQ+ Community to Unite & Stand Up for Equalityyoutu.be
Another out and proud singer, Adam Lambert, commanded the stage when performed his rendition of "Holding Out for a Hero" from his new album High Drama.
"I've been in the music industry now for about 13 years. When I first came out of American Idol, the landscape was so different. There weren't a lot of queer artists doing the pop music thing. I was proud and excited to be part of a wave of people making change, but it was confusing. We know now that you can be queer and be successful in the music industry. I know our country is going through some tough things right now and that's all the more reason to come out and to wave the Pride flag as hard as we can," Lambert says.
Adam Lambert Reflects on His Trailblazing Career Since 'American Idol'youtu.be
The queen diva herself, Big Freedia, also made an appearance at this year's special. Freedia teamed up with Ciara for an electrifying performance of their single "$100 Bill."
"[I'm here] to represent for our community and to let them know that they have voices and people here to represent them. Pride ain't going nowhere. Baby, we are here and here to stay, okay? Keep on holding on. Keep fighting for a great cause. We are fighting for you and with you. Things will change and turn around for all of us."
Big Freedia Teases Her Collaborations on New Album 'Central City'youtu.be
Rounding out the night included appearances from special presenters, Raven-Symoné and Miranda Maday.
The two just launched a brand new podcast called The Best Podcast Ever and are proudly showcasing their love to help others who may be struggling.
"When I was growing up, I didn't have anything that made me feel comfortable in being in my own skin, so it took me forever to come out. Once you start to live your truth, happiness comes [and] joy comes. Your mental health will balance out to be better," Symoné says.
"Live in your truth. Being courageous and brave is a very challenging thing, especially when it comes to standing in your truth, but I think that when people live in their authentic selves, good things happen. Stay safe," Maday adds.
You can watch Can't Cancel Pride now. To see the full interviews with the stars, just check out the videos above and below.
Raven-Symoné & Miranda Maday Open Up on Their Beautiful Marriageyoutu.be
