Misogyny & Mainstream Media

In recent years, LGBTQIA+ representation in media has seen significant progress, with more stories featuring queer characters and experiences entering mainstream platforms. This shift has brought increased visibility, fostering a sense of belonging for LGBTQIA+ viewers and allowing broader audiences to connect with stories outside their own experiences. However, while progress has been made, challenges remain. For authentic and meaningful representation to continue evolving, it’s essential to address current limitations and work toward more inclusive, diverse storytelling that reflects the full spectrum of LGBTQIA+ lives.

The Importance of Representation

Representation matters because it shapes how society perceives different identities. Media plays a powerful role in defining social norms, and when LGBTQIA+ characters are depicted authentically, they help break down stereotypes and foster understanding. For queer youth especially, seeing themselves in the stories they consume can be life-changing by offering a sense of validation and belonging that might otherwise be lacking. It can also serve as an educational tool for those outside the community, promoting empathy and acceptance by providing a window into LGBTQIA+ experiences.

Progress in LGBTQIA+ Storytelling

The past decade has brought various landmark moments in LGBTQIA+ media representation. Notable shows such as The L Word, Sense 8, Orange Is the New Black, and more recently, Agatha All Along, have highlighted diverse aspects of queer culture. Additionally, films like Call Me by Your Name and Moonlight have gained critical acclaim for their portrayal of LGBTQIA+ relationships and identities. These works mark a shift from stereotypical portrayals of queer characters, like the “sassy gay friend” or “tragic LGBTQIA+ character,” toward more nuanced, humanized roles.

Additionally, more queer actors, writers, and directors are getting involved in the production of LGBTQIA+ stories, leading to a more authentic portrayal of their experiences. These stories cover a wide range of themes, from love and joy to complex struggles with identity, and resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.

Remaining Challenges

Despite this progress, there are still areas where LGBTQIA+ representation falls short. Transgender and non-binary characters remain underrepresented, and when they do appear, they are often portrayed by cisgender actors, which can dilute the authenticity of these stories. Additionally, bisexual and asexual characters are frequently misunderstood or misrepresented, reinforcing harmful stereotypes or erasing their identities altogether.

The persistence of “bury your gays,” a trope where queer characters are often killed off, especially in mainstream media, also highlights a troubling trend. This pattern not only reflects biases in the industry, but also deprives LGBTQIA+ audiences of narratives that allow them to envision happy, fulfilling futures. Furthermore, queer characters of colour face additional erasure and stereotyping, with stories often lacking the intersectional lens needed to capture their unique experiences.

Moving Toward Inclusive Storytelling

To advance LGBTQIA+ representation, the media industry must actively prioritize diversity in storytelling. This includes hiring LGBTQIA+ writers, directors, and actors who can bring their own experiences into their work. Authentic representation also requires moving away from stereotypical narratives and exploring LGBTQIA+ lives as multifaceted, full of joy, love, struggle, and resilience.

Advocating for better queer representation means demanding stories that reflect the full range of LGBTQIA+ identities, with particular attention to trans, non-binary, and queer people of color. These voices are crucial to capturing the complexity of the queer experience and helping audiences—both LGBTQIA+ and allies—connect with a broader understanding of identity.

As media continues to expand and evolve, the opportunity to create powerful, inclusive narratives is greater than ever. With each new, authentic portrayal of LGBTQIA+ lives, we move closer to a media landscape that honours and celebrates the diversity of the human experience.