Lia Thomas Accepts Voice of Inspiration Award, Champions Trans Rights

Former University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas was honored with the ‘Voice of Inspiration Award’ at the Violet Visionary Awards in Los Angeles on March 15, 2025. The event celebrated Thomas’s journey as a transgender woman and her advocacy for transgender rights in sports. Dressed in a striking purple dress and stilettos, Thomas, who stands at approximately 6-foot-5, took the stage to share her experiences and express gratitude for the support she has received throughout her transition.

Thomas’s acceptance speech followed a video montage that traced her athletic career from competing on the men’s team under the name William Thomas to her current participation on the women’s team as Lia. The montage portrayed her as a trailblazer facing significant challenges in the pursuit of acceptance. During her speech, Thomas highlighted the influence of transgender mentors who encouraged her to embrace her identity and compete in women’s athletics.

“Being open and out in myself felt like this impossible mountain to climb,” Thomas stated, reflecting on her initial fears when she came to terms with her identity. She credited the guidance of trans mentors with helping her find the courage to reconcile her identity as a swimmer with her identity as a transgender woman. “It’s only because of so many amazing, amazing trans mentors that I was able to find that strength and that courage,” she added.

The event, which included performances and speeches from various LGBTQ+ advocates, underscored the ongoing fight for acceptance faced by transgender individuals in sports. Thomas specifically addressed the backlash she has encountered and the “messages of violence” that have been directed at her on social media. She expressed a desire for more supportive organizations like Rainbow Labs, which sponsored the event, to provide resources and education for young transgender individuals.

Thomas remarked on the importance of her role as a public figure, stating, “I owe so much to those mentors before me… to be that next light for people is an honor I can’t describe.” She emphasized her commitment to using her platform to inspire others and advocate for the rights of transgender athletes.

The ceremony also featured comments from other speakers who discussed the challenges facing LGBTQ+ Americans today. Daisy Chavez, a spokeswoman for LA Football Club, spoke about the importance of supporting “queer folks” within the community, emphasizing that LGBTQ+ individuals have always been part of sports culture. “Our presence with this club reminds not just the club, the community, but the world that we’ve always been here,” she stated.

After the awards, the evening continued with entertainment, including performances celebrating LGBTQ+ culture. The event not only highlighted Thomas’s achievements but also reinforced the importance of community support and visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals in sports and beyond.

As Thomas continues her advocacy work, she remains a significant figure in the fight for transgender rights, aiming to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive environment in athletics and society.