Jim Parsons and partner Todd Spiewak accept award from Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN)

Congratulations to three-time Emmy winner Jim Parsons and his partner Todd Spiewak who were presented with the Inspiration Award at last night’s GLSEN Respect Awards which took place at the Beverly Hills Hotel to honor this year’s leaders in the struggle against bullying LGBT youth.

In accepting the award, Parsons said: “I’ve never considered myself an activist. I’ve never considered my relationship with Todd to be an act of activism. Rather simply, it’s an act of love, coffee in the morning, going to work, washing the clothes, taking the dogs [out]—a regular life, boring love.

“Now all this said, no one is giving us an award for activism. I realize this,” he added. “If we are indeed inspiration to others by simply being who we are and living our lives in the way that feels right to us then we have to thank the same people who help any other couple who continue a successful relationship—our friends and family. We are both surrounded by so many people who make our lives better and easier, friends we’ve had for many years and friends we’ve made since living in L.A.”

Other top honors this year went to Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to her by friend Lily Tomlin and Student Advocate Ari Segla. Also being honored this year was Student Advocate of the Year, Laila Al-Shamma who read past diary entries during her moving acceptance speech. Actress Chloe Grace Moretz was on hand to give Al-Shamma her award. The final award of the night, the Chairman’s Award, went to film studio Lionsgate. Co-Chairman, Rob Friedman accepted the award on behalf of the company.

Speeches were also given by GLSEN Board Chairman Kevin Brockman, sponsor Target’s VP of Marketing Daniel Duty, “Scandal’s” Dan Bucatinsky, NBA player Jason Collins, LA Galaxy player Robbie Rogers (pictured, above), and Executive Director of GLSEN, Dr. Eliza Byard.

Also present at the event were Matthew Morrison (“Glee”); Kirsten Vangsness (“Criminal Minds”); Peta Murgatroyd (“Dancing With The Stars”); Brant Daugherty (“Dancing with the Stars”); Niecy Nash (“Clean House”); and Peter Paige (The Fosters).