Writer, producer, director, and philanthropist Roland Emmerich will receive the Stephen F. Kolzak Award at the 26th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles at the Beverly Hilton on March 21, 2015, it was announced today. Channing Tatum will present the award. E! Online broke the news.
The Stephen F. Kolzak Award is presented to an openly LGBT media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equality. The award is named after a successful casting director, who devoted the last part of his life to raising awareness in the entertainment industry about the discrimination faced by LGBT and HIV-positive people. Previous Stephen F. Kolzak honorees include Laverne Cox, Wanda Sykes, Rufus Wainwright, Melissa Etheridge, Bill Condon, Todd Haynes, Alan Ball, Ellen DeGeneres, and Sir Ian McKellen.
Emmerich is one of the world's most talented and sought-after directors. His films include the blockbusters 2012, Day After Tomorrow,Stargate, Independence Day, The Patriot, and White House Down. Emmerich recently completed filming Stonewall, a drama about the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City, a major turning point in the struggle for LGBT equality.
In addition to his work in film and television, Emmerich has significantly contributed to several non-profit organizations, including but not limited to, Outfest's Legacy Project, dedicated to preserving LGBT film history; The Los Angeles LGBT Center; Freedom to Marry; and the Cambodian Children's Fund.
“As one of Hollywood’s most sought-after film directors, Roland Emmerich has entertained audiences across the globe. His generosity has touched the lives of countless LGBT people, bringing shelter to homeless youth and preserving culture-changing stories that help close the gap to full acceptance,” said GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. “Now, with the upcoming release of ‘Stonewall,’ millions of moviegoers all across the world will see the harms of anti-LGBT discrimination and learn about the historic riots that forever changed equality in America.”
The 26th Annual GLAAD Media Awards is presented by Delta Air Lines, Hilton, Ketel One Vodka, and Wells Fargo; and Official Presenting Partners Amazon and Bud Light. Check out a complete list of nominees and buy your tickets here.