BWW Pride Essay: Representation Is Essential

We all understand the power of media well. It's impact on our daily lives is undeniable. The influence it has on adults, teenagers, and even children is immeasurable. The right kind of representation in television, film or music can be substantial for people growing up LGBTQA. The importance of representation in mainstream media is definitely not something that should be ignored or forgotten.

We live in a time where LGBTQA representation in media is at an all-time high. We have gay, bisexual, and transsexual actors in leading roles. Telling stories that must be told in a way that not only entertains, but informs. This is most essential. Not only is representation important to people in the community, but also those who might have a false perspective. It's in TV, and films where stories are told that follow lives of people unlike themselves that love, and fight, and overcome adversity just as anyone does.

The impact of representation can be seen all across the country, and the globe. People are discovering their strengths, and speaking out. They're allowing themselves to realize who they truly are, and what they truly want, and what they rightfully deserve. It's a wonderful time in our history. Where pride is largely present, and difficult to ignore. People of any gender, or sexuality on the spectrum can now marry. Not only is that a result of representation, but the confidence, and power it instills in all who need it. The conversations are only becoming bigger, and more precise. The voices demanding representation are being heard. We have big, bright voices like Orange Is The New Black's Laverne Cox talking proudly about her life, and the importance of representation in media. It's absolutely encouraging to know that people of any sexuality, gender, and race can rise above and succeed wherever they wish to. It's truly beautiful.

Representation is important across all forms of media. Not just film, and TV. Seeing musical artists speak out, and having plotlines and characters in literature to relate to is also of vast importance. Many of us don't realize the importance representation. Whether it be for those in the LGBTQA community or their allies. It encourages us all to speak out for what's right, and speak against what's wrong. Representation can save lives. It can change perspective. It has the power to start a conversation, and the power to insight big change. There's no telling where we'd be as a society now if it weren't for important representation in our media.

Always be prideful. Always be strong.