“Why is LGBTQ+ Representation In The Media Important?” Ask Me Anything
In this week’s Ask Me Anything the question is another important one. While less personal than our previous questions, it touches on something that impacts all of us in a way that we are unlikely to even be fully aware of. I am not an expert in this particular field, it does impact me and so I hope my answer adds something of value to the conversation:
Dear Jamie,
Some people complain that entertainment shouldn’t be a commentary on politics or culture but I disagree. Why do think LGBTQ+ representation in TV shows and film is so important?
Sara
Hey Sara,
This great question has been on my mind a lot lately. As your very question demonstrates, we can look at two aspects of this issue. On one hand, we can unpack why so many would resist such representation. And on the other, why such representation is so important. I’ll try to touch on both but I suspect most of my energy will be focused on the latter.
So much of popular media has served to reflect (or play off of) the thoughts, ideas, assumptions, and expectations of those at the center of social power. While some of that has been done intentionally- such as the…