In a heartening moment for the LGBTQ+ community, renowned trans influencer and cultural icon, Dylan Mulvaney, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to making LGBTQ+ spaces safer and more positive. The Trevor Project, a leading LGBTQ+ human rights organization, proudly announced Mulvaney as the recipient of the 2023 Suicide Prevention Advocate of the Year award. This esteemed accolade, previously bestowed upon notable figures such as Lil Nas X and Janelle Monáe, pays tribute to Mulvaney’s unwavering commitment to fostering LGBTQ+ positivity.
Mulvaney, widely known for her captivating ‘Days of Girlhood’ vlogs, expressed her deep gratitude for this honor. In her statement, the trans actress, content creator, and activist underscored the significance of The Trevor Project’s life-saving work, especially for those grappling with their identity. She affirmed, “To anyone feeling lost or scared, I want you to know that you are so incredibly loved and there is light after the moment of darkness.”
At just 26 years old, Mulvaney has harnessed her immense influence on platforms like TikTok, where she boasts 10.5 million followers, to advocate for positivity within LGBTQ+ spaces. Kevin Wong, The Trevor Project’s senior vice president of communications, lauded her as a “source of light and hope” in these challenging times. Wong emphasized that through her advocacy and unapologetic celebration of her trans identity, Mulvaney serves as a role model for LGBTQ+ youth, inspiring them to envision a future where they can thrive openly and authentically.
In a touching TikTok video, Mulvaney acknowledged that some queer young people lack the support they desperately need. She expressed how knowing that they turn to her for positivity is “the greatest gift” and offered words of encouragement to those who may feel isolated or unsupported, reaffirming the worthiness of life.
The Trevor Project’s recent US National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People unveiled sobering statistics, with 41 percent of under-18s admitting to seriously considering suicide in the past year, including half of transgender and non-binary young people. Furthermore, the survey revealed that 86 percent of transgender and non-binary young individuals attribute their mental health struggles to legislative attacks on LGBTQ+ rights. In this challenging landscape, Dylan Mulvaney’s advocacy shines as a beacon of hope and resilience, making her a symbol of positive change within the LGBTQ+ community.
Dylan Mulvaney’s remarkable journey and dedication to LGBTQ+ positivity continue to inspire a new generation to embrace self-love and authenticity. Her recognition as the 2023 Suicide Prevention Advocate of the Year underscores the vital importance of supporting and uplifting those who work tirelessly to make the world a safer place for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
