Authentic Voices: 2SLGBTQI+ Representation in Film and TV

When art imitates life: 2SLGBTQI+ Representation in Film and Television, By Dylanna Fisher

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“[Representation] creates a gentler challenge of our idea of what is normal. I really hate that word for applying to humans in any way. But representation creates a sense of normalcy in the fact that sexuality is diverse, gender is diverse, bodies are diverse. People come in all shapes and colours and sexualities,” shares Angel Sumka, President of ASPECC (Alberta Sex Positive Education and Community Centre). These words encapsulate the essence of why representation is critical—not only for inclusivity but also for dismantling the societal constructs of what is considered “normal.”

According to GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), a prominent 2SLGBTQI+ advocacy group, major film studios have seen a decline in inclusive representation over the past year. However, smaller studios and television networks have made significant strides, demonstrating that representation is not merely a numbers game but a commitment to authenticity.

This visibility matters deeply. By depicting 2SLGBTQI+ stories, media fosters a connection between the audience and characters who might otherwise feel excluded from mainstream narratives. As Laurie Hansen reflects, “I was always envious of the people around my age that were straight. Things were just easier for them. Not perfect, but easier.” Straight relationships and characters dominate media, offering endless role models for straight youth. In contrast, 2SLGBTQI+ representation remains limited, leaving many without figures to identify with or look up to.

Challenging Norms: The Call for Representation

For 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, representation in media goes beyond entertainment; it is a lifeline. It challenges the entrenched notion that being cisgender and straight is the default or superior identity. “I don’t think it’s too much to ask to have other identities acknowledged in film,” remarks Ada Szulski, an asexual university student. Yet, this simple ask often meets resistance cloaked in complaints like, “I don’t like it being rubbed in my face,” exposing the hypocrisy of a culture inundated with heteronormative content.

Sumka underscores the transformative power of representation: “It allows people to know about the community and realize that it’s an option.” Representation fosters understanding, acceptance, and validation, helping to dismantle prejudice and ignorance. However, while strides have been made, the community still faces hurdles—particularly in battling tokenism and stereotypes.

Breaking Free From Harmful Stereotypes

The 2SLGBTQI+ community has seen a surge in visibility over the past decade, partly due to advocacy for equal rights. However, much of this representation remains superficial and rooted in stereotypes. From lesbians in flannel to effeminate gay men with lisps, these depictions fail to capture the nuance and breadth of the community. While easily recognizable, such portrayals oversimplify identities and perpetuate harmful clichés.

Hansen shares her personal experience with stereotypes: “There were several times when people told me I didn’t look like a lesbian. I wore my hair long and didn’t adhere to the ‘butch’ or ‘lipstick lesbian’ stereotypes.” This narrow framing reinforces restrictive boxes, leaving individuals who don’t fit these molds to feel unseen and invalidated.

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These stereotypes not only limit the community’s representation but also obscure its diversity. The 2SLGBTQI+ population encompasses a wide range of ages, ethnicities, gender identities, relationships, and personalities. Failing to reflect this diversity reduces complex, multifaceted individuals to a single trait: their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Toward Authentic Representation

Authentic representation means creating characters who reflect real people—not exaggerated caricatures. It requires moving past token inclusion and embracing narratives that highlight the humanity and individuality of 2SLGBTQI+ characters. As Josh, a university student, aptly notes, “Representation matters, of course. Especially in a period of humanity where we’re allowed to talk about that and be open and not be offended.”

The importance of representation resonates across all marginalized communities. Szulski points to the success of Black Panther, observing, “Part of the reason it got so huge, apart from being a heckin’ awesome superhero film, was that black kids could finally look up to a superhero that looked like them. People want to be represented.” The same principle applies to 2SLGBTQI+ media representation—visibility affirms identity, fosters pride, and nurtures a sense of belonging.

Looking Forward: A Brighter Future for Representation

The media holds immense power in shaping societal perceptions and norms. By prioritizing diverse and authentic stories, creators can challenge existing prejudices and pave the way for greater understanding. Representation is not merely a checkbox to tick; it is a call to humanize and celebrate every facet of our collective diversity.

Sumka’s words echo with hope and urgency: “This is a great time to expand upon the 2SLGBTQI+ discussion.” By embracing this challenge, the media industry can create a world where everyone, regardless of identity, feels seen, valued, and inspired.

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