Anderson Cooper to be honored at GLAAD Media Awards in New York City on March 16

How nice it is to have Anderson Cooper be an out and proud gay man.

We knew he was gay, sure, but there was kind of a vagueness to his public persona that is no longer there.

He is now out and proud and we know it  and he’s never seemed more relaxed or confident on the air.

And now that he’s publicly out, Anderson can be properly feted by LGBT organizations like GLAAD which announced this morning that it will be presenting The Silver Fox with an award next month in New York City.

He will receive the Vito Russo Award on March 24 at the 24th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York. Anyone who has seen the superb documentary, Vito, knows how meaningful this award is.

GLAAD notes that Anderson has reported on a range of subjects that includes the bullying of LGBT youth, families supporting their transgender children, and the dangers of the so-called “ex-gay conversion therapy.” For his coverage of issues relevant to the LGBT community, he has received seven GLAAD Media Award nominations, and has been awarded the trophy three times

“By sharing his own experiences as a gay man, Anderson has reminded millions of Americans that LGBT people are part of their everyday lives and an integral part of our cultural fabric,” said GLAAD President Herndon Graddick. “He continues to raise the bar and set a new standard for journalists everywhere, and I’m proud to call him a friend.”

The Vito Russo Award is presented to an openly lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equality. Previous honorees include Ricky Martin, Rosie O’Donnell, and Elton John. The Award takes its name from legendary HIV/AIDS activist Vito Russo, who was also one of GLAAD’s founders.

Good Morning America anchors Lara Spencer, Josh Elliott, and Sam Champion will host the GLAAD Media Awards in New York.

The GLAAD Media Awards ceremonies will be held in New York on March 16, 2013 at the New York Marriott Marquis; in Los Angeles on April 20 at the JW Marriott; and in San Francisco on May 11 at the Hilton San Francisco – Union Square. Additional Special Honorees for each city will be announced in coming weeks.

For ticket information visit: glaad.org/mediaawards