LGTBQ representation is something all communities deserve. Superheroes are influential and role models for children. They stand for hope, justice, and love. We have heroes that are rich, like Batman and Green Arrow, and heroes who struggle financially (Billy Batson). Heroes with no parents, separated parents (Redhood), and single parents (Cyborg). DC has even brought in in Muslim heroes (Green Lantern), Arabic heroes (Damian Wayne), Asian heroes (Cassandra Cain). These characters exist because they are real. Children embody such diversity. And so, having LGTBQ characters is just as important and influential. There are days when things are difficult, but having heroes that represent who you are can be a beacon.
With this, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) will present DC Entertainment with their Visionary Award on October 20th at the 2017 GLSEN Respect Awards.
DC Comics has been iconic in their representation. Noting Batwoman, the first lesbian superhero to have her own comic series, and Alysia Yeoh, the first major transgender character in comics, and a strong character in the Bat-family. Not to mention, having Katherine Kane and Renee Montoya, along with Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy as lesbian power-couples. Noting as well Apollo and Midnighter as their gay power couple, having their own comic series as well.
[ Alysia Yeoh in DC Bombshells ]
[ Apollo and Midnighter ]
DC Comics has shown outstanding support. After the Orlando nightclub tragedy, DC joined with IDW Publishing during June 2016, Pride month, and released an issue titled Love in Love featuring stories of DC’s LGTBQ heroes. A portion of proceeds going to the family members of the victims in Orlando.
Eliza Byard, Executive Director of GLSEN says:
GLSEN is excited to honor DC Entertainment with the Visionary Award for their impact and innovation. Superheroes hold an incredibly powerful place in our popular culture. Equally powerful is for LGBTQ youth to see themselves in our world, and DC enables just that. DC’s commitment to representing LGBTQ characters in all forms of media is both incredibly important and empowering.
The president of DC Entertainment, Diane Nelson speaks on DC’s dedication:
We are honored to accept the Visionary Award at this year’s GLSEN Respect Awards. At DC, we are committed to telling stories that reflect and inspire our diverse audience and we look forward to celebrating with the LGBTQ students and activists from across the country.
Superheroes hold so much power. They guide us through childhood, and more often than noticed, through adulthood. We can be Superman or we can be Green Lantern, but not all of us. DC has more than that, and this award is a great honor to receive. It’ll let the youth know there are more than just a few heroes they can turn to, that they will have the world to support them!