GLAAD to honor Martin, Chenoweth

NEW YORK, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- The U.S. Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation says it will honor singer Ricky Martin and actress Kristin Chenoweth at its upcoming prize presentations.

Martin will receive the Vito Russo Award at the New York award ceremony March 19 at the Marriott Marquis Times Square.

"Ricky coming out was a game changer for many gay and transgender Latino children, who for too long, did not have many out gay people to look up to," GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios said in a statement Wednesday. "Through his music, videos and interviews, Ricky has sent an important message that our community wants the same things all people do: an equal chance to raise our families and take care of our loved ones."

Chenoweth will be presented with the Vanguard Award in Los Angeles April 10 at the Westin Bonaventure.

"When allies like Kristin take such powerful stands against anti-gay sentiments in the media, it sends an important message of equality," Barrios said. "It is a privilege to honor such a talented and conscientious advocate for fairness towards the LGBT community."

GLAAD also announced that Andy Cohen, Bravo's executive vice president of original programming and host of "Watch What Happens: Live," will preside over the New York portion of the 22nd Annual GLAAD Media Awards presentation.

Additional honorees and special guests will be announced soon, the organization said.