OutBermuda revamps Icon Awards during Pride Month
A charity that supports members of the LGBTQ+ community is celebrating Pride Month throughout June and has revamped its Icon Awards.
OutBermuda said it was an opportunity to celebrate progress, while the awards spotlight the contributions of role models, allies and trailblazers.
A spokeswoman for the charity said: “OutBermuda is excited to celebrate the rich history and ongoing fight for equality that Pride represents.
“Pride Month, recognised globally in June, stems from the earliest protests for LGBTQ+ rights, such as the Stonewall riots.
“It is a time to reflect on our past, celebrate the progress we've made and plan for the future we hope to shape.
“We see this month as a crucial period for strengthening community, enhancing visibility and promoting the fundamental rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.”
The Icon Awards were introduced in a new format as part of the Pride festivities.
The spokeswoman added: “This initiative is designed to honour the heroes of our community — those who advocate tirelessly for LGBTQ+ rights, offer support to our community and lead by example.”
Taj Donville-Outerbridge, a board member of OutBermuda, added: “As co-chair of the programmes committee, I am super excited about the relaunch of the Icon Awards with all-new categories and to be accepting nominations from the community.
“To me the awards represent a crucial opportunity to recognise and celebrate those unsung heroes who work tirelessly for LGBTQ+ Bermudians all year round, and I hope the community will see the value and participate through submitting a nomination or attending the awards.”
Each nominee will be evaluated based on visibility, compassion, integrity and alignment with OutBermuda’s vision of creating an environment on the island where LGBTQ+ individuals are free from discrimination and stigma.
The nominees will also be assessed on category-specific criteria.
Role Model of the Year: this award recognises an LGBTQ+ individual who significantly inspires and supports the local community through their actions, presence and leadership. The recipient serves as a prominent example for young queer people in Bermuda, living openly and proudly and demonstrates motivation, support, visibility and leadership
Ally of the Year (Individual): awarded to a non-LGBTQ+ individual who has shown exceptional support and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community over the past year. If the nominee is LGBTQ+, they are recognised for their allyship to a sector of the community they do not identify with. Criteria include active support, advocacy, engagement in LGBTQ+ initiatives and a significant positive impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals
Ally of the Year (Organisation/Company): this category honours an organisation or company that has demonstrated outstanding support for the local LGBTQ+ community through donations, community engagement or advocacy. The winning entity provides financial or logistical support, creates safe and welcoming spaces, engages in advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and actively participates in LGBTQ+ events and initiatives
Trailblazer Award: given to an LGBTQ+ person or group that has made significant, pioneering progress for the local community, either over a substantial period or through undeniable impact. This lifetime achievement award celebrates groundbreaking achievements and leadership in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. The recipient is recognised for pioneering firsts, long-term impact, leadership and inspiration
Nominations are open and will be accepted until July 31 at pride.bm/nominate.
A panel of judges will then review the submissions, and winners will be announced during a gala and Icon Awards on August 30.
Tickets for the award ceremony and gala are available at www.pride.bm, which also has details on the awards, nominations and Bermuda Pride event.
The spokeswoman added: “As we embark on this exciting Pride Month with our Pride festivities just a couple of months away, we invite everyone to nominate their LGBTQ+ heroes and allies for the OutBermuda Icon Awards and get their tickets for the gala with a Pride month discount.
“Let's honour those who have paved the way and those who continue to advocate for a more inclusive and accepting society.”
Bermuda Pride 2024 will run from August 28 to September 1.
This year's theme is “Family Affair” to “bring awareness to the concept of chosen family and to explore the bonds of blood family”.
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