WASHINGTON – Grammy and Emmy award-winning artist and advocate Cyndi Lauper today visited Capitol Hill to speak on behalf of homeless LGBT youth and advocate for programs that provide needed housing and support services.

About five years ago, I had an opportunity to do a photo shoot for Interview magazine and wanted to include some young gay and transgender people to help spread a message of diversity and acceptance. So, I went down to the Christopher Street Pier here in New York City, where they tend to hang out. What came next opened my eyes to a problem that for far too long has not received the attention, the money, the resources and the focus that is desperately needed.

LOS ANGELES -- Cyndi Lauper, fresh from a whirlwind world tour, is headlining "An Evening With Women" at the chic Beverly Hilton Hotel on April 16. We recently caught up with her to ask about why she loves her LGBT fans; her new album, “Memphis Blues”; what's next for the True Colors tour; and what we should expect when she takes the stage at "An Evening with Women."

Center: We’re incredibly excited that you’ll be performing at this year's "An Evening With Women.". What made you decide to accept the invitation?