One important aspect of queer culture is its representation in media formats such as podcasts, immersive audio, virtual reality experiences, and global networks. Over the last decade, there has been an increase in these types of media platforms that feature stories and perspectives that are specific to the LGBTQ+ community. These platforms have enabled individuals from all walks of life to connect with each other and find acceptance in their own identity while also providing them with access to resources they may not have had before.
With this growth comes new challenges that marginalized voices must navigate. The way these media formats shape identity will be crucial in determining how successful they are in creating spaces for those who identify as queer to thrive within. This essay explores the ways in which queer media formats can influence identity formation over the next decade and what issues will arise due to increased accessibility and representation.
Representation
One of the biggest impacts of queer media formats is their ability to provide a platform for underrepresented voices to share their stories and experiences. By increasing visibility for these individuals, it allows others who identify as queer to feel seen and heard in a society where homophobia still exists. Queer people face discrimination in many areas of their lives, including employment, housing, healthcare, education, and public accommodations.
Transgender people experience higher rates of violence than cisgender individuals (Bell). According to research by GLAAD, only 14% of characters on television are LGBTQ+, despite making up 37% of the population (GLAAD). Immersive audio experiences like podcasts, virtual reality experiences, and global networks can provide a space for these individuals to tell their stories without fear of judgment or prejudice.
Access
While immersive audio has created opportunities for queer individuals to connect, there are also new barriers that prevent some from accessing these platforms. One such obstacle is lack of financial resources. Podcasts require internet access, which can be expensive if data plans are not available or affordable. Virtual reality experiences may cost money to purchase headsets or require powerful computers with updated software.
Access to these technologies may not be equitably distributed across communities. This could result in marginalized queer people being excluded from participating fully due to their socioeconomic status. To address this issue, creators should ensure they offer free content options for those who cannot afford subscriptions or purchases. They should also partner with organizations that serve low-income populations to ensure everyone has equal access to these formats.
Representation Issues
As more queer media formats become popular, there will likely be an increase in representation issues that arise. Some of these include stereotyping, tokenism, misrepresentation, and erasure.
When LGBTQ+ characters appear on TV shows or films, it often involves tropes such as coming out stories or struggles with sexuality or gender identity. These narratives can perpetuate harmful ideas about queerness rather than showcasing its diversity (Friedman). Tokenism occurs when a person from a marginalized group is added solely for the sake of inclusivity without any real depth or complexity in character development (Gray). Misrepresentation happens when portrayals fail to accurately reflect the lived experiences of individuals within that community.
Erasure occurs when individuals feel invisible because they do not see themselves represented in the media.
Queer media formats have had a significant impact on how identity is shaped within the LGBTQ+ community over the last decade. As these platforms continue to grow, so too must our understanding of what they mean for identity formation. Creators need to consider how they represent these communities while also ensuring their work is accessible to all. By doing this, we can create spaces where marginalized voices are elevated and celebrated, leading to greater visibility and acceptance for everyone.