Pop icon Madonna has brought in the New Year by celebrating the LGBTIQ+ community, surprising fans at New York City's historic Stonewall Inn for a speech and performance.
The appearance on New Year's Eve was of special significance, with 2019 marking the 50-year anniversary of the Stonewall riots.
“I stand here proudly at the place where pride began, the legendary Stonewall Inn, on the birth of a new year," the singer and advocate said.
She continued: “We come together tonight to celebrate 50 years of revolution, 50 years of freedom fighting, 50 years of blood, sweat, and tears...
“50 years of sacrifice, 50 years of standing up to discrimination, hatred and, worst of all, indifference. And it all started here, at Stonewall."
Madonna added: “Let us never forget the Stonewall riots and those who bravely stood up and said, ‘enough.’ Enough brutality. Enough violence inflicted on this community. Enough stigmatism. Enough pain and suffering.
“Stonewall has become a critical turning point in history, catapulting LGBTQ rights into public conversation, and awakening gay activism.”
The star then performed her hit 'Like A Prayer' as well as an Elvis Presley cover, for which she was accompanied by her son David.
