It highlights the significance of gay men and lesbian women participating and positioning themselves equally in society.
On 12 June 2008, the Municipal Council of The Hague granted a motion[1] to annually present a ‘gay emancipation award’.
It would signify the intention of The Hague to profile itself as a gay-friendly city and therefore, this annual gay emancipation award was created.
Therefore, on 13 January 2009, the council of the Mayor and Municipal Executives of the city of The Hague passed a bill[2] creating this unique award and named it after a famous Dutch citizen and sports figure - John Blankenstein.
"[6] The persons and institutions involved in deciding the winner and presenting the award are: a predetermined jury of well known gay, lesbian and straight people, COC Haaglanden and the city of The Hague.
To be nominated for the John Blankenstein Award, a candidate should contribute to a positive perception with regard to gay emancipation in the city of The Hague.
These rules where set in the bill passed by the council of the Mayor and Municipal Executives of the city of The Hague on 13 January 2009.
[8] This award shall continue to be given out each year to an individual or organization that promotes sexual diversity and understanding in both The Hague mainstream society and the local LGBT community.