Yannick Nézet-Séguin has received the Laurent-McCutcheon Award from Fondation Émergence.

The conductor and Music Director of the Metropolitan Opera shared on social media, “I am deeply honored to receive the Laurent-McCutcheon Award from Fondation Émergence! This award is presented annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to advancing LGBTQ+ rights or combating phobias against these communities, and sadly, this fight continues. I consider myself fortunate: I grew up in a loving family where my identity was never a barrier, and I have worked in environments with orchestras that allowed me to be my true self. I was able to marry my partner, Pierre Tourville, thanks in large part to the advocacy of Laurent McCutcheon. I am indebted to the activists and allies who paved the way for me, and I hope to continue supporting those who come after me. I firmly believe that the best way to combat prejudice and hatred is to embrace our identities, to express ourselves, and to love openly. In times of darkness, let us be a source of light!”

Past recipients of this award include Pete Buttigieg, Élise Gravel, Debbie Lynch-White, Pierre Lapointe, and Christiane Taubira.

Laurent McCutcheon was the founding president of Fondation Émergence and the initiator of the National Day Against Homophobia, which evolved into the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. He has played a vital role in promoting recognition of sexual diversity and gender identity.