Lady Gaga Says 'The Rage of Art Will Empower You' in MTV VMAs Acceptance Speech

This means a lot to me. It means more to me than you probably even realize. I've been making music since I was a little girl, and even though I had really,
really big dreams, I truly never could have imagined that someday I would be given an award like this that honored me for so many of my passions.

I want you to know I failed over and over again as an actress and as a musician when I was young, and though I gave back to the local community through service as a young woman in New York, philanthropy became a much bigger part of my life as a star, and I started the Born This Way Foundation with my mother, Cynthia, once my record broke. I want to share this award with everybody at home tonight. Everybody at home, that is their own form of a TriCon.

I wish for you to think right now of three things that define who you are, and take a moment to reward yourself for your bravery. This has not been an easy year for a lot of people. But what I see in the world is a massive triumph of courage.

I also hope that people at home that have big dreams, I hope they see me here today accepting this award and hope they know how grateful I am. And I want you to know that you can do this, too. Just 'cause we're separated right now, and culture might feel less alive in some ways, I know a renaissance is coming. And the wrath of pop culture will inspire you. And the rage of art will empower you as it responds to hardship with its generosity and love. That is what I believe.

I want nothing more than to be your artist in 2020. It's a total privilege. I love you. Stay safe, speak your mind, and I might sound like a broken record, but wear a mask: It's a sign of respect. Thank you.

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