As we enter the last week of Pride month, we highlight significant voices in the entertainment industry whose expertise has contributed to some of the most iconic moments in Hollywood. 

From showstopping ensembles to unapologetic stances while performing for sold-out crowds, these fearless changemakers are on a mission to spread awareness of the queer community, despite the cost of standing on the front lines.

Here are seven figures whose strides continue to keep the flame in the queer movement ablaze.

Ru Paul

No one does it like Ru Paul, and that’s on period! This star is truly one of a kind, and his impact continues to shift the conversation about beauty standards in the LGBTQ  community and beyond. 

As the flamboyant host of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Paul’s message of inclusion has never been louder and prouder. 

Janelle Monáe 

This soulful singer doesn’t just sing; she uses her voice as a megaphone to drive representation in the queer community.

With her unapologetic lyrics and captivating melodies, Monáe's achievement in Hollywood isn’t self-serving. It’s the groundwork she laying to help the succeeding generation stand in their power and truth.

Sir John 

This makeup artist disrupted the beauty industry in the 2010s. Since then, he only looks back when he’s catching his client’s reflection.  

While climbing the Hollywood ladder, Sir John has secured a star-studded clientele that includes Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Gabrielle Union.

When he’s not using his skilled hands to make his clients look breathtaking on red carpets, he’s using his influence to advocate for the queer community.

Laverne Cox

While orange might be the new black, there’s no doubt that Laverne Cox has the “it” factor.  

Since her breakout role in the Emmy-award-winning drama on HBO, Cox has defied the odds while carving out her own path in Hollywood. 

To take her career to the next level, Cox didn’t follow the usual rule of thumb; she stepped out of the box while championing the LGBTQ+ movement. 

Sam Fine

This celebrity glam aficionado is who the big shots go to when they’re ready to step out and cause a moment. With over 30 years of making Hollywood look its finest, he knows beauty is beyond what can be seen. In 1998, he shared his secrets of achievement, a timeless look in his book, “Fine Beauty: Beauty Basics and Beyond for African American Women.”

With clients Queen Latifah, Cynthia Erivo, and Patti LaBelle, Fine’s expertise will be marveled at and studied for future generations.

Kil Prity 

As the sauce behind iconic supermodel Iman’s smug, Kil Prity, also known as Kita Moore, is nothing short of the real deal. 

From blockbuster red carpets to high-profile magazine cover shoots, Prity knows to be a top contender; it all comes down to the power of the blend, yet not blending in is what has led this innovator to forge his own path.

Now, he’s a partner with Maybelline and can often be seen doing simple-to-follow makeup demonstrations on social media.

Vernon Francois

Vernon Francois doesn’t just do hair; he slays while creating unforgettable works of art. 

As Lupita Nyongo’s trusted hair stylist, Francois’s creative instincts and bold choices have kept the hair industry on its toes and fans intrigued, too. As a zealous force in the LGBTQ+ community, Francois knows that with each style, he’s helping to spread awareness of the community and its resounding voice.