The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) has awarded Lady Gaga as their Outstanding Music Artist.

The singer, who stirred up controversy with a lesbian kiss during her Telephone video, received the honor during the 21st Awards show for both her music as well as increasing visibility and promoting equality for the LGBT community.

Lady Gaga beat Adam Lambert, her friend and former American Idol contestant, as well as Otep, The Gossip and Brandi Carlile, during the final installment of the GLAAD Awards held in San Francisco.  Earlier this year two ceremonies were held in Los Angeles and New York.

Another big winner was director Lee Daniels for “Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire.”  Daniels revealed he had to overcome some very big issues regarding his sexuality starting at a very young age.

My dad beat me daily because I was gay.  There were bullies after me and I wanted to commit suicide.

Winning the Golden Gate Award was Cybill Shepherd for her Phyllis Kroll portrayal, a lesbian character on The L Word.    Shepherd’s two daughters presented her with her award.

Shepherd said,we stand on our elders’ shoulder.  I would like to thank everybody who has work so hard and made this possible.  I am quite humbled.  I don’t know if I can be even more dedicated to the cause, but I never could thank GLAAD enough for educating me.

Chely Wright, country singer, and Sam Sparro, Australian dancer singer, were also in attendance.  Sparro also performed.