In a press release, HRC president Chad Griffin said HRC "recognizes Jennifer for her talent, style, compassion, philanthropy and generosity, but foremost for her public commitment to LGBT equality."

The organization also added that she knew how to "face pressure from anti-LGBT groups":

"Even facing pressure from anti-LGBT groups, Jennifer stands her ground as a strident equality supporter. Throughout her career, Jennifer Lopez has always stood for fairness, justice and equality, and that’s what being an ally is all about," he said.