It is well established that representation of minority groups is hugely important. Productive representation is an effective tool in promoting understanding and debunking stereotypes. For members of a particular group, seeing positive representation of themselves is a bolster to self-confidence and spirits. There has been increasing dialogue about the lack of representation of POC’s in shows, movies, and books, and LGBT+ representation is even worse. Oftentimes when LGBT+ characters are present, they are little more than caricatures of stereotypes; we may see iterations of the sassy gay friend or the masculine flannel-wearing lesbian, or maybe a drag queen. So what are some representations that move beyond these tropes?

Senior Izzy Wheeler says, “I started watching Sense 8; it is so good and  has a lot of queer representation. There is a gay couple, a lesbian couple, and a trans character.” Sense 8, available on Netflix, is a great option for those interested in sci-fi. The Netflix original Orange is the New Black is also a good choice because of how it deals with lesbian relationships, bisexual erasure, and the unique struggles of transgender women of color. One show that is making waves for  positive LGBT+ representation is Steven Universe, an animated series on Cartoon Network. This show is unique because it exposes a younger audience to gender and sexuality concepts in a casual way. It uses cartoons as a medium to normalize these often controversial topics. Another unexpected TV pick that features positive LGBT+ representation is Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which featured one of the first mainstream lesbian couples in the characters of Willow and Tara.

Books are another form of media where positive LGBT+ representation can be lacking. Oftentimes, the young adult genre recycles the same old tired character tropes and heteronormative romantic subplots. For those that like to read and would like to see better LGBT+ representation, there are definitely some good books out there.  Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz is a deeply poignant novel that explores what it means to be gay in the hispanic community and how a young man struggles to reconcile his sexuality with his masculinity.  A Love Story Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily Horner is a tear-jerker of a coming of age story that delves into themes of grief and acceptance. Lastly, for those who prefer a more historical read, The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller is an epic retelling of the Greek myth of Achilles from the perspective of his best friend, confidante, and, according to some historians, lover Patroclus.

Positive LGBT+ representation in media is important for individuals to feel accepted and to push society into tolerance. Junior Quentin Merritt says, “Queer representation is important because for many kids in many different parts of the US, they don’t get to identify with anyone, but having queer people on television allows them to feel like they are normal and they get to look up to people.” Everyone deserves to have stories they can relate to, and the LGBT+ community is no exception.