Ellen Pompeo Receives the Inspiration Award at GLSEN Awards!

Ellen Pompeo is joined by Grey’s Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes at the 2018 GLSEN Respect Awards on Friday night (October 19) at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills.

The actress honored with the Inspiration Award, which was presented to her by Shonda.

Ellen gave an emotional speech in which she called out the names of those whose lives have been “senselessly taken due to an absence of love.”

In an exclusive statement that she gave to JustJared.com, Ellen opened up about the importance of attending events like this one.

“I have a day job with crazy long hours but I love going to events like these because they’re so important. They teach boys and girls people everyone to speak up. It’s just such a bad time in this country we need to be out there and be loud. LGBTQ, trans and gender non-conforming youth are experiencing extremely hostile climates across America. GLSEN is such an amazing organization for getting out there and helping!” she said.

“And how incredible are the kids are to be organizing and making GSA (gay/straight alliance) clubs at their schools. To spread awareness and start conversations. We know that the more schools with GSA programs, the less kids experience depression and have less stressful times learning. Kids are taking charge and leading and THAT is what inspires me-getting involved!” Ellen added. Go to GLSEN.org to learn more about the cause!

Also in attendance at the event were Sasha Lane and Judy Reyes.

FYI: Ellen is wearing a Naeem Khan jumpsuit, Jimmy Choo shoes, and Lana jewelry while carrying a Tyler Alexandra clutch. Sasha is wearing head-to-toe Tory Burch.