Lia Thomas Accepts LGBTQ+ Award, Advocates for Trans Rights

Former University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas received the prestigious Voice of Inspiration Award at a recent LGBTQ+ event in Los Angeles. The ceremony, held on March 15, 2025, celebrated Thomas’s journey as a transgender athlete and his advocacy for transgender rights in sports.

As Thomas took the stage at the Serra on Vine, he wore a striking purple dress and stilettos, standing at approximately 6-foot-5. His appearance followed two drag performances and a video montage that depicted his transition from competing on the men’s team as William Thomas to his current status as a competitor in women’s sports. The event portrayed Thomas as a figure embodying both resilience and the ongoing struggle for acceptance in the athletic community.

In his acceptance speech, Thomas expressed his gratitude to Rainbow Labs, the event’s sponsor, saying, “Incredible shout out to everybody at Rainbow Labs for bringing me here and everybody and putting this all together.” He reflected emotionally on his journey, recalling the challenges he faced at age 18 when he first realized he was transgender. “Being open and out in myself felt like this impossible mountain to climb,” he said, emphasizing the fear and uncertainty he experienced during his early transition.

Thomas credited his support network of transgender mentors for helping him navigate his identity and ultimately encouraging him to pursue a career in women’s athletics. “It’s only because of so many amazing, amazing trans mentors that I was able to find that strength and that courage,” he noted.

The event highlighted the broader context of transgender rights in sports, a topic that has sparked significant debate in recent years. Thomas’s presence as a competitive athlete has made him a focal point in discussions surrounding the inclusion of transgender individuals in women’s sports. He acknowledged the backlash he has faced, including receiving “messages of violence” on social media. Despite this, he described his platform as an influential transgender person as “my purpose.”

In his speech, Thomas articulated the importance of representation for transgender youth, stating, “I wish there was an organization like Rainbow Labs when I was a child to give me the knowledge and language to describe my transness.” His remarks resonated with many at the event, underscoring the need for supportive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Other speakers at the event echoed Thomas’s sentiments, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ+ Americans. Daisy Chavez, a representative from the LA Football Club, spoke about the importance of community support for queer individuals in sports. “And if you don’t know, we follow sports because we’ve always been here,” she said, emphasizing the historical presence of LGBTQ+ individuals in athletics.

As the ceremony concluded, the atmosphere remained celebratory. Attendees were treated to performances and entertainment, reflecting the vibrant culture within the LGBTQ+ community.

Thomas’s award acceptance was more than a recognition of his achievements; it served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. “To be able to be that next light for people is an honor I can’t describe,” he concluded, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to inspire others in their journeys.

The event not only celebrated Thomas’s achievements but also fostered a sense of community and solidarity among attendees, reinforcing the importance of advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights in all areas, including sports.