WATCH: Kesha Fights Back Tears While Receiving the Human Rights Council Visibility Award For LGBT Rights

Kesha tearfully thanked her supporters as she picked up the Visibility Award from Human Rights Council for her work campaigning for support of LGBT youth.

Speaking as she picked up the prize in Nashville, which was given in recognition of her for using her spotlight to speak out against bullying of LGBT youth, she said,

 “As many of you know I am going through some personal things that have been really intense and hard lately and I just want to say thank you for the support I have received.”

Following a court ruling last month that forces her to remain in a contract with producer Dr. Luke, despite claims that he abused her, Kesha remains strong. The audience cheered as she began to choke up and had to step away from the microphone to compose herself.

The 29-year-old star spoke of how she was a “misfit” growing up and still feels like an outsider. Explaining the inspiration behind her vocal efforts to encourage individual freedom, she said,

“That’s why my message has always been about being yourself, and we really have to love each other and support each other.

“Believe me, when I sing these words I’m talking to myself as much as I’m talking to anyone else.”

Kesha went on to urge others never to feel “afraid” to speak up about injustice or “shamed” into changing to suit other people.

“Don’t let people scare or shame you into changing the things about you that make you unique.

“We can’t be afraid to fight for our dignity. These are our basic human rights.”

Watch the full acceptance speech below:

KESHA ACCEPTS THE VISIBILITY AWARD FROM THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

NOTE: to skip through to Kesha’s acceptance speech, head to 08:50