Don Lemon Urges Queer People to Stand Up to Bullies

The CNN anchor calls for journalists and LGBTQ+ individuals to be "fearless" in the face of political hostility.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a speech at the GLAAD Media Awards, CNN anchor Don Lemon encouraged queer people and journalists to stand up to bullies and not be afraid, even going so far as to say they should "punch them in the nose" metaphorically. Lemon, who was recently arrested while covering protests in Minneapolis, emphasized the importance of the First Amendment and urged reporters to continue doing their jobs without fear.

Why it matters

Lemon's comments come amid a broader climate of political hostility and attacks on press freedom, particularly towards LGBTQ+ individuals and journalists covering contentious issues. His call for courage and defiance in the face of intimidation is seen as an inspiring message to marginalized communities and the media.

The details

During his speech at the GLAAD Media Awards, Lemon condemned fascism and expressed gratitude for the support he received after his arrest in Minneapolis. He told the audience, "Don't be afraid! They want you to be afraid. The way that you combat a bully is to stand up to them. The metaphorical thing is to punch them in the nose. If someone is trying to intimidate you, you have to take a stand and show them you're not afraid." Lemon also emphasized the importance of the First Amendment, saying "It's the bedrock of our constitution. Without the First Amendment, everything else crumbles."

  • In January 2026, Lemon was arrested by federal agents after his coverage of the Minneapolis ICE protests.
  • On March 9, 2026, Lemon spoke at the 37th GLAAD Media Awards.

The players

Don Lemon

A CNN anchor known for his fearless reporting and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

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What they’re saying

“Don't be afraid! They want you to be afraid. The way that you combat a bully is to stand up to them. The metaphorical thing is to punch them in the nose. If someone is trying to intimidate you, you have to take a stand and show them you're not afraid.”

— Don Lemon, CNN Anchor (Out)

“I know that folks think I'm brave. I don't know what that means. I'm just doing what I believe is right. The First Amendment is extremely important to me. It's the bedrock of our constitution. Without the First Amendment, everything else crumbles.”

— Don Lemon, CNN Anchor (Out)

What’s next

Lemon's speech at the GLAAD Media Awards has inspired many journalists and LGBTQ+ advocates to continue speaking out against political intimidation and defending press freedoms.

The takeaway

Don Lemon's defiant message to stand up to bullies and not be afraid in the face of political hostility has resonated with marginalized communities and the media. His unwavering commitment to the First Amendment and his call for courage in the face of adversity have made him a symbol of resistance against the erosion of civil liberties.