Kim Petras

By Kerry Jary

A German singer and songwriter living in the USA, Kim Petras has been recording music since being a teen. Starting off writing for other stars, she soon realised she wanted to share her voice with the World.

She made history at the 2023 Grammy awards, with her duet with Sam Smith and taking home the best Duo/group performance award becoming the first ever trans woman to win in that category. She was also only the second trans woman to win a Grammy in its history. Due to its historic relevancy, Sam Smith stepped aside for Kim to accept the award on their behalf. Afterwards tweeting “OMG I’m a tranny with a Grammy” and praised Madonna who is well know for her activism in the LGBTQIA+ space.

Prior to her historical Grammy winning success, Kim performed in Australia at Mardi Gras and was even spotted at Co-op’s hometown of Manchester for Pride – the first time she had performed to such a large crowd!

By Lindsay Robinson

A very proud Transgender artist, Kim is much more than that and while she is keen to use her platform for good, she also doesn’t want this to be all she is known for. At the age of 30 we will see a lot more of Kim and she has definitely earned a new fan base over at Respect.

By Sean Walsh

Cherilyn Sarkisian was born on May 20th, 1946. She went by many names with her singing partner and ex husband Sonny, including Caesar and Cleo, and Sonny and Cher, before breaking out as a solo artist under the name Cher. She is often referred to as 'the Goddess of Pop'.

Cher has been an icon for the LGBTQ+ community for decades, thanks to her fabulous and daring outfits on the 'Sonny & Cher Show' during the 60s and 70s, as well as her powerful voice and passionate songs. In addition to being a wonderful singer, she is also an Oscar-winning actress, winning for her role in 'Moonstruck', as well as commanding performances in 'Silkwood', 'Mask', 'The Witches of Eastwick', 'Burlesque', and most recently 'Mamma Mia'. The LGBTQ+ community loves everything she does!

However, Cher is not infallible. Before her son Chaz Bono came out as trans, she infamously kicked him out of the house when he came out as a lesbian. She later expressed regret for her reaction and has since been an outspoken supporter of his journey as a trans man.

Cher is also known for being a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ and women's rights, animal welfare, racial equality, and a critic of those who would take people's rights away. Check out her Twitter for her hilarious put-downs! Her one-liners are brilliant, such as when she replied to her mum who had suggested that she should settle down with a nice, rich man: "Mom, I am a rich man!"

Cher has been in the public eye for 60 years this year and has had number 1 hits in every decade since the sixties. She says this longevity is the reason why the LGBTQ+ community loves her so much, and this is a big part of it. Despite facing near bankruptcy, failed marriages, and media scrutiny about every aspect of her life, she has always come back even stronger and more fabulous than before, which is certainly something that resonates strongly amongst the LGBTQ+ community. Long live the 'Goddess of Pop'!

Marsha P. Johnson is an iconic figure in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, especially for the trans and non-binary community. Her activism and advocacy for marginalized communities continue to be an inspiration to many still.

Born in 1945 in New Jersey, Johnson moved to New York City's Greenwich Village in the 1960s, quickly becoming a fixture in the city's LGBTQ+ community and a founding member of the Gay Liberation Front and Street Transvestite (now Trans) Action Revolutionaries - STAR.

Johnson's activism in support of the LGBTQ+ community was fuelled by her own experiences as a trans woman of colour. She faced discrimination and violence throughout her life, but she never gave up on fighting for justice and equality.

In 1969, Johnson was present at the Stonewall Inn during the riots which are widely considered to be when the modern-day LGBTQ+ rights movement began. She played a key role in the uprising and continued to be a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

In addition to her activism, Johnson was also a well-known figure in the New York City drag scene. She often performed under the name "Black Marsha" and was known for her colourful outfits and lively personality.

Sadly, Johnson's life was cut short when she was found dead in the Hudson River in 1992. Her death was initially ruled a suicide, but many believe she was murdered. Despite this, she is remembered as a trailblazer and an icon for the LGBTQ+ community, with her fearless advocacy and commitment to social justice continuing to inspire.

In recent years, there’s been a renewed focus on her legacy, with the 2017 release of "The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson" documentary, and a monument honouring her being unveiled in Greenwich Village in 2019. Both helping to cement Johnson's story, so her contributions to the LGBTQ+ rights movement aren’t forgotten.

Marsha power standing inspiration and allies, and empower

Demi Lovato is a singer, songwriter, and actor who has become a powerful voice for the LGBTQ+ community. Through their music and advocacy work, Lovato has become an icon and inspiration for many young people.

From a young age, Lovato has been open about her struggles with mental health and addiction. Both their honesty and vulnerability have helped to break down stigmas and raise awareness about these important issues. In recent years, she has also become an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

In 2016, Lovato publicly identified as queer and began using their platform to speak out in support of LGBTQ+ equality. She has been a vocal advocate for the community, speaking out against the discrimination they have experienced within their industry.

In addition to her advocacy work, Lovato's music has also been a source of empowerment for many LGBTQ+ fans. Their song "Cool for the Summer" was hailed as a bisexual anthem, whilst continuing to create music which celebrates diversity and encourages self-love and acceptance.

Lovato's activism and advocacy work have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, she was honoured with the GLAAD Vanguard Award for their commitment to LGBTQ+equality. They have also been recognized

Marsha P. Johnson's life is a testament to the power of activism and the importance of standing up for what is right. She remains an inspiration to generations of LGBTQ+ activists allies, and her legacy will continue to inspire empower people for years tocome.

By Rebecca Smith

for their work with The Trevor Project, an organization providing crisis intervention and

Lovato has been an inspiration to many, through her advocacy work and by sharing their own discovery and acceptance. By being so willing to share her struggles and triumphs, she has helped to create a more supportive and understanding environment for those who may be going through similar experiences.