Kany García Honored with Spirit of Change at Billboard Latin Women in Music 2024, Dedicates Award to Pride Month

Kany García, a lifelong champion of change and social justice, was honored with the Spirit of Change Award at the 2024 Billboard Latin Women in Music gala, which aired Sunday from Miami's Telemundo Center.

Accompanied by an eight-piece pop/rock band, the Puerto Rican singer-songwriter performed her new autobiographical song 'García' and her hit 'Te Lo Agradezco'. García, who is experiencing a particularly successful moment, coming off a major tour and about to embark on another, received the Spirit of Change Award from her compatriot and friend Tommy Torres, who introduced her as “a great artist and a great man”. “Whom I consider a great friend.”

A visibly moved Garcia responded in her own words: “How nice to receive any award at the hands of someone I love deeply, like my dear Tommy Torres,” she said.

Garcia then elaborated on the meaning of his award: “It's time to talk more,” he said. “It's time not only to sing and dance and have a great time. It's time to talk more. It's time to use the microphone not just for fun. We women have experienced such a brutal and incredible imbalance, which is why we fight for something that comes so easily to us. That's why as a woman, standing hand in hand with each of the people I see sitting here, receiving this award [is so important].

“I dedicate it to LGBQT+ month, our community month,” added García.

In its second annual edition, Billboard Latin Women In Music also honored Karol G as Woman of the Year, Gloria Estefan as Legend, La India as Pioneer, Ana Bárbara with the Lifetime Achievement Award, Ángela Aguilar with the Musical Award Dynasty, Camila Cabello for Global Impact and Kali Uchis as Rising Star.

The ceremony is broadcast Telemundo and live streaming via the Telemundo app and Peacock.