Russell Simmons, Ricky Martin, and Essence.com were among the honorees at this year’s GLAAD Media Awards.

The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation held their awards ceremony on Saturday in New York.

Simmons received the award for excellence in media. The Def Jam co-founder, author, and fashion designer recently took part in advertisements for the Human Rights Campaign in support of the organization’s Marriage Equality Campaign.

Martin was given the Vito Russo Award for promoting equal rights. The Oprah Winfrey Show also received honors for Martin’s appearance in which he discussed his homosexuality.

Essence.com was paid honors in the field of Outstanding Digital Journalism – Multimedia for “Bridal Bliss: Aisha and Danielle.”

(Photo:  Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)