Between the gubernatorial debates regarding the legality of gay marriage vs civil unions and mainstream television shows touting main characters with a rainbow of sexualities, the gay community has received plenty of media attention of late. This is particularly important, because by emphasizing diversity on television, the media opens the eyes of the country to the realities of gay life.
This is particularly important because of the impact it has on the upcoming generation of LGBTQ youth. By exposing both youth and parents to a diversity of sexualities through the lives of their favourite television characters, it raises awareness and opens a dialogue between parents and their children. Regardless of whether these children identify as straight, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered, through gay chat with their family and friends about LGBTQ issues, they elevate their understanding and help perpetrate acceptance in their community.