Lesbian / Gay / Bisexual / Transgender Issues
These lessons and activities focus on issues of LGBT representation and portrayal in advertising.
LGBT Representation in Advertising
After examining ads, participants discuss the reasons representation is important to the LGBT community.
Negative and Homophobic LGBT Images in Advertising
Through examination and discussion of ads, participants explore negative LGBT images, and discuss possible effects of these images on individuals and society.
Positive LGBT Images in Advertising
Through examination and discussion of ads, participants explore positive LGBT images, and discuss possible effects of these images on individuals and society.
Targeting LGBT with Advertising
To learn to identify the targeting practices of advertisers, participants compare ads carried by the mainstream press to those aimed specifically at the LGBT community, or carry a strong gay subtext.
LGBT Portrayals in the Media
Participants will be asked to take a critical look at the portrayals of the LGBT community in recent movies, television shows and in the print media, and to examine how these images have affected their own views, and society’s.
Comparing Ads in “Gay” and “Mainstream” Magazines & Periodicals
Participants compare ads found in LGBT-targeted magazines and papers with those found in "mainstream" magazines and papers and make a comparison report to generate class discussion on target audiences.
What is “Gay Vague” and What Does It Mean?
An activity designed for youth to examine the term “gay vague” as it relates to LGBT subtexts in advertising. Participants examine and discuss images from CommercialCloset.org.
Civic Pride: Commercials for LGBT Destinations
After examining the message of the nation’s first widespread tourism campaign targeting the LGBT community, participants brainstorm ideas for a print or commercial ad advertising their hometown as an LGBT-friendly destination.
Selling Points: LGBT Representations in Popular Music
By conducting research on GLAAD’s praise of Christina Aguilera and condemnation of Eminem, participants explore how representations of the LGBT community affect cultural perception of musical artists and the sale of their work.
Queer Eye for the Advertising Guys
Participants examine how advertisers sell their products by associating them with the popular TV show, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. Product placement, sponsors, and celebrity endorsement are considered, as well as possible target audiences for these ads.
New Worlds, New Rules: Video Games and Social Tolerance
Participants read an article about the recent inclusion of LGBT themes and same-sex unions in video games, then examine and discuss how playing these games may encourage tolerance.
