She’s being recognized for her lifelong advocacy for the LGBTQ community, including with True Colors United, the nonprofit organization she co-founded in 2008 to work toward ending homelessness among LGBTQ youth.

Of the 4.2 million youth and young adults who experience some form of homelessness in the U.S. every year, up to 40% of them are LGBTQ, according to a 2019 report from True Colors United. The nonprofit offers an array of resources including training and education, technical assistance, advocacy and youth collaboration programs to prevent youth homelessness, while focusing on the unique experiences of LGBTQ young people.

The award was created by producer David Clark, founder of The High Note Global Initiative celebrating artists who fuse music with human rights, of which UN Human Rights is a global partner. Clark has also worked on social justice campaigns like Nelson Mandela’s 46664 HIV/AIDS benefit concert series between 2003 and 2008, Muhammad Ali’s HEALING initiative promoting racial tolerance and the Anne Frank 75th Birthday Tribute in New York in 2005. Emmy-nominated TV producer Chantel Sausedo serves as executive producer for the High Note Global Initiative.

“We are delighted to recognize and honor Cyndi Lauper as the 2019 High Note Global Prize Laureate,” Clark commented. “For decades she has promoted human rights, been a voice and active participant for change, and inspired people around the world to be tolerant and true to themselves. She is most deserving of this award, and we look forward to celebrating her achievements during our inaugural High Note Global Prize award ceremony.”