Sabrina Carpenter Champions Trans Rights at the 2025 VMAs

Singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter took center stage at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) last night not just to collect awards, but to deliver a powerful message of support for transgender people and the wider LGBTQ+ community. Carpenter’s actions—both in her performance and in her acceptance speech—were met with applause and celebration from LGBTQ+ advocates, allies, and fans around the world .

Carpenter’s performance of her hit single "Tears" was not only musically compelling but also a deliberate act of visibility and solidarity. Sharing the stage with multiple drag and trans performers, including stars from "RuPaul's Drag Race," Carpenter orchestrated a vibrant spectacle that foregrounded LGBTQ+ artistry. During the performance, members of the ensemble held up signs advocating for trans rights, making the message of inclusion unmistakable .

This visual display was broadcast live to millions of viewers, amplifying the call for trans rights at a time when anti-trans legislation and discrimination remain pressing issues globally. The presence of drag and trans performers underscored the importance of representation, especially on such a visible and influential platform as the VMAs.

After her performance, Carpenter accepted the award for Album of the Year for her chart-topping release "Short n’ Sweet." She used her acceptance speech to double down on her message of support and gratitude—not only to her fans but also to the "queens on stage with me tonight," directly referencing the drag and trans performers who shared her spotlight .

Carpenter addressed the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities, stating, "This world, as we all know, can be so full of criticism and discrimination and negativity. So to get to be part of something...that can bring you light, make you smile, make you dance, and make you feel like the world is —I am so grateful" . Her words resonated as a reminder of music’s power to unite and uplift, especially for marginalized communities.

Carpenter’s public advocacy was widely praised by LGBTQ+ organizations and social media users. Many highlighted the significance of such a statement on a global stage, noting that the VMAs have historically been a space for artists to challenge norms and advocate for social change.

By including trans and drag performers and centering their voices, Carpenter contributed to an ongoing shift in mainstream music culture. Her actions align with broader efforts by artists and activists to foster greater acceptance and visibility for transgender people, particularly at a time when trans rights are the subject of political and cultural debate in numerous countries .

The VMAs have long been known for headline-making moments, but 2025’s ceremony stood out for its affirming representation of LGBTQ+ identities. Representation remains vital for trans youth and adults who continue to face discrimination, violence, and erasure in many societies. By choosing to spotlight trans and drag performers, Carpenter sent a message of validation and hope to viewers who may rarely see themselves reflected in mainstream entertainment.

Advocates also pointed out that such displays of allyship can have ripple effects across the industry, encouraging other artists and media figures to use their platforms for positive change .