I believe in change - it’s not about judging, it’s about educating. I hope in the future that we will all grow beyond labels. Everyone has value; Everyone deserves respect; and Everyone deserves the chance to live their dream, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I hope all LGBTQ youth know that they are as valuable as anyone else. That they are amazing and unique, and make the world a more vibrant place. I want every young person to choose to have a tomorrow, and to dream for the future.

My mantra has been, “Be yourself, and you can be anything.”

-Katy Perry, 2012 Trevor Hero Award Honoree