Why LGBT Representation Is Important In Media
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Why LGBT Representation Is Important In Media

We need to change how we represent.

11624
Why LGBT Representation Is Important In Media
PCAR

In today's society, no one really thinks about the things we see, such as violence. What has become normal is heterosexual relationships and how they are the 'right' kind of relationship. Children as young as 2 are being blasted with this ideal on television and in social media. We are told at young ages that if we have a friend of the opposite sex, that means we have a crush on them or that we will end up married at some point in our lives.

However, some children figure out that they're transgender by three and some teenagers figure out that they like the same sex in middle school. They aren't shown on any platform that the same sex relationships they desire are okay to have and that they aren't wrong for liking the same gender or because they find it to be uncomfortable thinking of being with a boy or a girl.

We exclude these ideas when we write scripts for movies, TV shows and so much more. Homophobia is everywhere, which as ridiculous as it sounds, many members of the LGBT community are constantly under attack. If you do see representation in the media, it's usually a selling point, not an important plot point. And it doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon.

If we can normalize same-sex couples, transgender couples and other couples from the LGBT community, we as a society would lose a lot of the stigma we have surrounding LGBT. Many people claim that LGBT people are greedy and obnoxious for wanting these things, like representation, acceptance and safe spaces, but anyone who identifies as LGBT has to go through ridicule for coming out, harassment for who they are, the risk of being kicked out is very high in some cases and then they might not even have any safe spaces near them where they can be themselves. These all lead to depression, anxiety and sometimes even suicide. Many times, people come out in college because it's the first place they have to be themselves without risking being thrown out, but they then have to go back to being closeted once they get home.

With more exposure to same-sex couplings, the public can have more of an accepting view of LGBT couples. But not only that, any child who identifies as a member of the LGBT community would be able to finally see themselves in a character they love and to fee okay that they like the same sex, are transgender or don't like anyone at all because asexuality is a valid sexuality. By telling these children that they are okay and not broken for being different, we are creating a new generation that is more accepting of others differences and accepts one another.

From Your Site Articles
Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

96482
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments