In his acceptance speech at the GLAAD Media Awards, Anderson Cooper (wiping Madonna’s lipstick from his mouth) tells the story of how he became a journalist and credits the “heroes” of LGBT journalism–Vito Russo, Harry Hay, Frank Kameny, and Audre Lorde, to name a few – for his presence on stage for the 24th annual ceremony. “I’ve benefited from what they and so many others have done; what they have spoken up for…been arrested and fired for; been beaten and bloodied and bruised for.”
On a less rosy note, see Dustin Goltz’ piece on InTheseTimes.com criticizing how gay elders are portrayed–including in shows that earned GLAAD awards. It’s not all tragedy and martyrdom in the world of LGBT journalism, however, Anderson made sure to state: “I’ve had so many blessings in life, and being gay is certainly one of the greatest blessings.”
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Amien Essif is a regular contributor to Working In These Times and maintains a blog called The Gazine, which focuses on consumerism, gentrification, and technology with a Luddite bent. His work has also appeared on the Guardian and CounterPunch. You can find him using Twitter reluctantly: @AmienChicago
