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Aired Sep 7, 2023

The Power of Media for Bi+ Youth

Youth-focused queer media is often seen as a taboo, with representations of bisexuality+ being especially rare. But in 2023, shows like Heartstopper, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and more are showing us that bi+ representation in shows for younger viewers is possible.

Join us live Thursday, September 7th at 4:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM PT for our monthly episode of Something to Talk About Live! where we will be discussing “’‘I’m bi, actually’ | The disappointing biphobia at the heart of the Heartstopper fandom,” by Eleanor Noyce which appeared in Why Now. We are excited to have Mackenzie Harte, Vincent Paz-Macareno, and Percy Sobera joining the conversation.

Article: ‘I’m bi, actually’ | The disappointing biphobia at the heart of the Heartstopper fandom

Source: Why Now

Author: Eleanor Noyce

Questions for Discussion:

  1. How have you discussed LGBTQ+ issues with young people in your life? Has there been any media that has assisted you in those conversations?
  2. Why do you think there has been so much hesitation to include bisexual+ representation in youth programming? How can creators overcome that hesitation?
  3. What LGBTQ+ topics do you want to see explored more in youth programming? How do you think creators could explore some storylines to be more inclusive?

Bonus Resources: Check out “L.G.B.T.Q. Teens on ‘Heartstopper’: ‘I’m Fine With It Not Being Perfect’” from The New York Times by Simran Hans, and “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series Ends With an Adorable Sapphic Romance” from Autostraddle by Heather Hogan.

About Our Guests:

Mackenzie Harte, Learning & Inclusion Manager, PFLAG National

Vincent Paz-Macareno, Board Member, Bisexual+ Resource Center

Percy Sobera, Digital Content Coordinator, PFLAG National

 

Something to Talk About Live is a series designed by PFLAG National’s Straight for Equality program to create conversation about LGBTQ+ issues. Each month we offer an article on LGBTQ+ topics and suggest a few questions you can use to lead a discussion with your ERG, community group, or PFLAG chapter.