“There was always just so much more than Naya could see with her eyes.”
At GLAAD Media Awards last night, the cast of Glee – as well as Demi Lovato, who was once a guest star on the iconic TV show – reunited to pay tribute to their beloved former co-star, who played the character of Santana.
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Lovato, who portrayed friend Dani of Santana, said she’l always cherish the chance [she] got “to play the role and praised Rivera’s actions as” pioneering work for queer girls in the closet, like me at the time “:” Her ambition and achievements have inspired Latina women around the world. “
Michael Becker / Fox / thanks to Everett Collection
Heather Morris said Rivera’s death “hit everyone so incredibly hard” and said: “As an ally, Naya was so honored to represent the LGBTQ + community.
Eddy Chen / Fox / thanks to Everett Collection
A written statement from Rivera’s mother, Yolanda Previtire, was also included in the broadcast: “Naya is delighted to receive this recognition. When Naya announced that Santana would be a lesbian, she called me to let me know and I asked her how she felt about it and she said, ‘I feel good about it!’
Adam Rose / Fox / thanks to Everett Collection
“Little did we know that she would influence so many people in the LGBTQ community.” Her desire was to always be an advocate for those who do not have a voice. I do not believe she realized how important she was to this world. ‘
Justin Althaus / Fox / thanks to Everett Collection
“I’m grateful that my oldest daughter helped change the landscape of how we see and see each other.”
Michael Yarish / Fox / thanks to Everett Collection
And Rivera’s legacy will undoubtedly live on and inspire others.
Dee Cercone / courtesy of Everett Collection
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