![YouTube: ABC](https://www.gaytimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Dove-Cameron-AMAS-590x370.jpg)
Dove Cameron delivered an emotional tribute to the victims of the horrific Colorado Springs LGBTQ+ nightclub shooting.
On 20 November, music enthusiasts flocked to their TVs to watch the 50th annual AMAs – which took place at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California.
Like previous years, the night was full of showstopping performances and appearances from the music industry’s biggest stars, including Taylor Swift, P!nk, Anitta and more.
However one of the most impactful moments from the show was during Cameron’s acceptance speech for New Artist of the Year.
During her time on stage, the Boyfriend singer paid tribute to the victims of the recent Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs – which occurred hours before the award show.
“I want to start by saying that every award that I ever win will always, first and foremost, be dedicated to the queer community at large,” she said.
“You guys carved out such a space for me to be myself and to write music about it, and I have never felt safer or more loved or more supported, and I hope I can give you some semblance of that feeling in my music,” she said.”
Cameron went on to express the importance of queer visibility and having more community after the tragic incident at Club Q.
“I want to direct your attention toward organisations like GLAAD and The Trevor Project for what you can do right now,” she continued.
“I want to remind you that you are made absolutely right, and you are so loved, so held, and I want to thank you for supporting me and thank you for holding this space, I’m holding it for you too.”
A beautiful acceptance speech by @DoveCameron #AMAs pic.twitter.com/aDuyNIG6DB
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 21, 2022
Shortly after her speech, fans took to social media to praise Cameron for her passionate words.
One fan wrote: “This is why I love @DoveCameron so much.”
Another fan tweeted: “DOVE CAMERON’S SPEECH AT THE AMAs… I LOVE HER SO MUCH.”
Cameron wasn’t the only celebrity to address the tragic incident in Colorado.
Before presenting the award for Best Pop Song, Kim Petras sent her love to the victims and their families in a brief statement.
“I can’t stop thinking about Colorado today. Gay clubs raised me, basically. And I can confidently say that no one loves pop music more than gay clubs. So, my heart goes out to you,” the Grammy-nominated singer said.
On 19 November, a gunman – who was later identified as 22-year-old Anderson Lee Aldrich – entered Club Q at 11:57 pm and opened fire on the establishment’s patrons.
The devastating attack, which occurred minutes before Transgender Day of Remembrance, resulted in five innocent people killed and 18 individuals wounded.
You can watch Cameron’s full speech here or below.