Social media: A pro or a con for the LGBTQ community?

Virtual entertainment stages have turned into a fundamental piece of our lives, offering us the valuable chance to associate with others, share encounters, and investigate assorted networks. Social media has emerged as a potent tool for self-expression, support, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other) community. We'll look at how the LGBTQ+ community has found social media to be helpful and empowering in this blog post.

1. Representation and Visibility:

One of the main benefits of online entertainment for the LGBTQ+ people group is the

expanded perceivability and portrayal it gives. Mainstream media frequently ignored or

marginalized LGBTQ+ voices in the past, perpetuating stereotypes and discrimination.

Nonetheless, virtual entertainment stages have enabled people to share their accounts,

encounters, and viewpoints straightforwardly with the world. People who identify as

LGBTQ+ are now able to connect with others whose experiences are comparable to theirs, providing a sense of community and belonging that may not have been available in the past.

2. Building Support Networks and Communities:

Social media has made it possible to form virtual communities, which has helped LGBTQ+ people feel like they belong, especially those who may be alone or live in areas with few LGBTQ+ resources. Stages like Facebook gatherings, Twitter talks, and Instagram people group permit individuals to associate, share exhortation, look for help, and structure solid kinships with other people who grasp their excursion. These web-based encouraging groups of people can be especially important for the individuals who are scrutinizing themselves, emerging, or managing separation, giving a place of refuge to examine their considerations and feelings.

3. Information and resources:

Information and resources on LGBTQ+ issues can be shared effectively on social media

platforms. Platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and TikTok are used by activists, organizations, and individuals alike to educate, raise awareness, and provide resources on issues like LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, healthcare access, and gender and sexual diversity. People are empowered to comprehend and navigate their own identities through the use of social media, which also fosters social acceptance and understanding.

4. Activism and advocacy:

For LGBTQ+ activism and advocacy, social media has proven to be an effective tool. On

platforms like Twitter and Instagram, content's widespread reach and virality have

significantly contributed to raising awareness of LGBTQ+ rights and issues. Discrimination, harassment, and the need for equality have been brought to light through campaigns, hashtags, and viral challenges. Social media activism has the power to mobilize a large number of people, amplify marginalized communities' voices, and effect real-world change.

5. Creativity and expression:

Social media platforms offer a creative way for many LGBTQ+ people to express themselves authentically and celebrate their identities. Individuals can share their art, stories, fashion, and unique perspectives through personal blogs, YouTube channels, or Instagram profiles, resulting in a diverse tapestry of LGBTQ+ representation. The community is encouraged to be creative as a result of the platform that social media provides for showcasing talent, encouraging inclusivity, and challenging societal norms.

LGBTQ adolescents can connect, educate, and support one another through social media, which may benefit this underrepresented group. Discrimination against LGBTQ communities and others remain issues with social media (Berger et al.,2021). A study conducted by Randolph Chan in 2023 found that increased social media use in the LGBTQ community was associated with internalized stigma, poor well-being and loneliness.

The LGBTQ+ community has found social media to be an invaluable resource in this day and age of ever-increasing digital connectivity. It has helped people navigate their identities, build communities, and advocate for equality by providing visibility, support, information, and advocacy. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks of social media, such as the distortion of reality, online harassment, and concerns regarding mental health. The LGBTQ+ community continues to thrive, break down barriers, and build a more inclusive society by mindfully using social media and harnessing its power for positive change.

So, while using social media it is important to look at both the pros and cons of it and make the decision to use it accordingly. What do you think? Is social media a pro or a con for the community?

- Neha Deshpande, Intern