From Madonna to Beyoncé: The most powerful messages of LGBTQIA+ support from pop icons

Every LGBTQIA+ person remembers the moment they discovered – and pledged allegiance to – their favourite pop music diva. Whether it was watching one of their iconic music videos for the first time or spotting them on the cover of a magazine, these fated awakenings have become a glittering rite of passage for queer people everywhere. But our connection to these artists runs far deeper than fandom or a single unforgettable fashion moment.

For decades, queer and trans people have looked to these talented women in music for solace and support amid a world filled with anti-LGBTQIA+ hate. Fortunately, our adoration has not been in vain, as many of these divas have reciprocated our love – such as Judy Garland, who is considered one of the first celebrities to publicly support the LGBTQIA+ community. After earning international acclaim for her performance as Dorothy Gale in 1939’s The Wizard of Oz, Garland’s impeccable voice, complex personal life and resilience in navigating an unforgiving industry inspired LGBTQIA+ people to stay strong and never give up – especially during a time when oppression of the queer community was at its peak.

In the decades since, artists like Madonna, Beyoncé and Lady Gaga have carried that legacy forward; amplifying queer voices, celebrating LGBTQIA+ culture and using their platforms to speak out in bold, unmistakable ways. With that in mind, we’re celebrating the pop icons who have not only embraced our community, but championed it – loudly, proudly and without apology.