Are You In Queer Media?

Although queer representation has come a long way in the media, it's no secret that the struggle to properly portray authentic representation persists. While TV and films have improved in recent years, incorporating more queer storylines and characters, progress still seems to remain slow and flawed.

 Is it worth it to include a queer character if their only role is to reinforce harmful stereotypes? Many shows and movies have successful queer representation, giving many a sense of belonging and fulfillment; conversely, even through well-intended depictions, these films can still be emotionally exhausting for queer audiences. Samo Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA) President James Rezven (’25) discusses how representation must be sincere and authentic — including a queer character just to seem “representative” doesn't cut it. 

“Emila Perez, for example, was actually insane. I don't know how it won any awards. It's a French man writing about Mexican trans women, and the way it equated being trans to surgery was insane. One of the worst pieces of queer media I've seen,” Rezven said. 

The power of media representation is undeniable. According to The Pepperdine Journal of Communication Research, exposure to gay characters on TV increased acceptance of LGBTQ+ equality among viewers. Additionally, studies also found that positive queer representation boosted societal acceptance dramatically. For queer audiences, as Revzen statees, representation is more than visibility: it's validation. Seeing characters share either struggles or joys can affirm to someone that they are not alone. Contrarily, the absence of representation or harmful queer portrayals reinforces isolation and stigma whithin the community. 

Some of the most damaging portals stem from long-standing stereotypes. These stereotypes don’t just misrepresent but also dehumanize individuals. Common stereotypes include the portraying of queer characters as evil or villainous; furthermore, it is all too common to witness the “bury your gays” trope, where LGBTQ+ individuals are killed off without proper exploration and depth to their storylines. Another persistent issue is the common cancellation of queer-led shows such as Everything Sucks, First Kill and Warrior Nun. 

“A lot of these shows forgot that people in the LGBTQ community are human and have feelings," Revzen said. "Sapphic stories constantly get canceled after one season, it's actually devastating… if you're in the closet, queer representation in the media can be such a comfort and safety. It's a really important thing to have.”