Seeing Ourselves on Screen: Why LGBTQ+ Representation Matters

We saw a recent article on U.S. News about growing LGBTQ+ representation on TV, and it got us thinking! Shows like Abbott Elementary, Hacks, Heartstopper, The Last of Us, and Yellowjackets are helping bring more queer characters into stories that millions of viewers enjoy. According to GLAAD’s “Where We Are on TV” report, LGBTQ+ representation on primetime shows has increased this season, which has been a small but meaningful step forward.

Is representation changing? 

Representation isn’t just about numbers. It’s about impact. Historically, LGBTQ+ characters were often invisible, sidelined, or shown through harmful stereotypes. Today, more shows are presenting queer characters as full, multi-dimensional people. For some people, being LGBTQ+ is a part of who they are, but it’s not the whole story. This kind of representation is powerful because it reflects real life and challenges outdated ideas. Movements like #queertok on tiktok will feature edits of queer media representation.

Representation matters for everyone 

For LGBTQ+ youth, seeing people like themselves on screen can be affirming, showing that their experience, struggles, and dreams are valid. It can also provide a sense of belonging, helping young people feel seen and understood. For non-LGBTQ+ viewers, these stories foster empathy and understanding, humanizing experiences that might feel different from their own. Studies show that exposure to LGBTQ+ media makes people more accepting of diverse identities and supportive of equal rights! 

It’s also worth celebrating that representation now appears across genres and platforms, from streaming hits like The Last of Us to comedies like Abbott Elementary! These characters are the lead in their own story.

There’s still work to do. Representation of transgender, nonbinary, and queer people of color remains limited, and many characters won’t return next season.  

But each new story sends a message: LGBTQ+ lives are worthy of being told, and more importantly, celebrated. And that’s something we can all watch, learn from, and support!!