The driving idea behind GLAAD's "Where We Are on TV" (WWATV) report is to enhance LGBTQ representation and accountability within the television industry. By providing a detailed and quantitative analysis of LGBTQ characters across major networks and streaming platforms, GLAAD aims to push for fair, accurate, and inclusive storytelling that reflects the diversity of the LGBTQ community.
GLAAD seeks to hold networks and streaming services accountable for their commitment to inclusive storytelling, examining whether these platforms are effectively representing LGBTQ characters and issues. The report establishes historical benchmarks and identifies trends in LGBTQ representation, allowing GLAAD, industry professionals, and audiences to note progress over time and recognize areas needing improvement. Additionally, the WWATV study presents actionable insights and priorities, aiming to influence industry practices and policies. This helps guide creators and executives move toward prioritizing LGBTQ inclusion in their programming.
WWATV aims to raise awareness among journalists, academics, and entertainment industry leaders about the current state of LGBTQ representation on television. By increasing visibility and providing context for breaking news and ongoing developments in media storytelling, the WWATV report supports GLAAD’s mission to advance LGBTQ visibility and inclusivity, fostering a more representative and equitable media landscape.
Where We Are on TV (WWATV) is an annual study that provides a comprehensive analysis of LGBTQ representation in television. It was brought to fruition through a carefully crafted plan, precise execution, and attention to key details, all while navigating various challenges.
The process began with the methodology development to track and analyze LGBTQ characters across scripted primetime broadcast, cable, and streaming series. GLAAD defined the parameters of the study and identified key attributes to track such as sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, HIV status, and disability status. This groundwork ensured that the report would offer a detailed and nuanced view of LGBTQ representation.
Data collection was crucial and required extensive research and coordination with various media sources to compile information on series and characters. GLAAD engaged a team of analysts to meticulously review casting announcements and confirmed series, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Once the data was gathered, it was analyzed to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. The findings were then compiled into a comprehensive report, which was designed to be both informative and accessible. Key features of the report included detailed statistical breakdowns, trend analyses, and actionable insights for industry stakeholders.
One significant challenge was ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the data, given the vast number of series and platforms covered. To address this, GLAAD implemented rigorous verification processes and cross-referenced data from multiple sources. This helped to minimize errors and ensure that the report reflected an accurate picture of LGBTQ representation.
Another challenge was balancing the need for detailed analysis with the need for clear and engaging presentation. GLAAD worked closely with graphic designers and data visualization experts to create compelling visuals that highlighted key findings and trends. This made the report not only informative but also engaging for a broad audience.
Additionally, promoting the report and ensuring its impact required strategic outreach. We organized an exclusive event to present the key findings to industry changemakers, which helped to generate buzz and foster discussions around the study’s insights. The report was also featured in panels at industry festivals, further amplifying its reach and influence.
What makes the WWATV report unique is its comprehensive and methodical approach to tracking LGBTQ representation. Unlike other reports, it provides a detailed breakdown of representation across various categories, offering a nuanced view of diversity within LGBTQ characters. The study’s annual nature allows for tracking progress over time and setting benchmarks for future improvements.
The integration of actionable insights and the emphasis on influencing industry practices set the WWATV report apart. By using the data to drive advocacy and inform industry standards, GLAAD ensures that the report not only reflects current trends, but actively contributes to positive change in media representation.
The successful execution of the WWATV report involved detailed planning, rigorous data collection, and effective presentation, all while addressing challenges through strategic solutions. This approach ensured the report’s impact and reinforced its role as a vital tool for advancing LGBTQ visibility and inclusivity in television.
The results of the Where We Are on TV (WWATV) report delivered a comprehensive and actionable analysis of LGBTQ representation across television networks and streaming platforms. The report’s meticulous data collection and insightful analysis provided a clear picture of current representation trends, which directly aligned with the goal of holding networks accountable and driving progress in inclusive storytelling.
Broad media coverage amplified the findings, raising awareness among industry professionals, journalists, and the public. By presenting the data at an exclusive event and in panels at industry festivals, GLAAD engaged directly with key stakeholders, fostering important discussions about representation and influencing industry practices. Due to its leadership in the entertainment and media space, GLAAD was honored at the 2023 Emmy Awards with the Governors Award.
At the Emmy Awards, GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis spoke to the organization’s profound and long-lasting impact to television. She and executives from the TV Academy testified to GLAAD’s proven force for change within the industry, and how influential the organization is, both to television and to legislators.
The success of GLAAD’s efforts is evident in the report’s wide reach, significant media coverage, and the impactful discussions it generated. By meeting our objectives of accountability, influence, and awareness, the WWATV report has reinforced its role as a vital tool for advancing LGBTQ representation, demonstrating its effectiveness and marking our efforts as a notable success
