Long-time LGBTQ ally Cyndi Lauper will be honored by United Nations Human Rights (UN Human Rights) as the first recipient of The High Note Global Prize.
The High Note Global Prize honors and celebrates recording artists for their outstanding achievement in using their music and social influence to advocate for social justice. On UN Human Rights Day (December 10), the iconic pop star will be presented with the award by UN Human Rights and LGBTQ singer Kesha at Lauper’s “Home for the Holidays” benefit concert in Los Angeles.
Lauper will receive the award for her lifelong advocacy for LGBTQ rights. Lauper co-founded True Colors United in 2008, a non-profit dedicated to ending homelessness among LGBTQ youth. She also gave a testimony to the U.S. Senate Sub-Appropriations Committee on Transportation and Housign and Urban Development in 2015, which played a role in securing about $250 million in new annual funding to invest in preventing and ending homelessness.
“The High Note Global Prize celebrates artists that have leveraged their musical gifts to create a platform to promote social justice,” said David Clark, the creator of The High Note Global initiative and the CEO of David Clark Cause. “We are delighted to recognize and honor Cyndi Lauper as the 2019 High Note Global Prize Laureate. For decades she has promoted human rights, been a voice and active participant for change, and inspired people around the world to be tolerant and true to themselves. She is the most deserving of this award, and we look forward to celebrating her achievements during the inaugural High Note Global Prize award ceremony.”
Lauper’s High Note Global Prize will be displayed at the Grammy Museum after the concert, which will benefit True Colors United. Along with Kesha, other LGBTQ and allied celebrities that will be at the event include Billy Porter, Brandi Carlile, King Princess, and Carson Kressley.