When I meet gay kids and they know who we are, I remember that's amazing because literally every gay person in every gay story I knew growing up was doomed to die. There weren't any positive gay stories and it's incredible that has changed.
Interpretation
The quote reflects the significance of positive representation of gay stories for the LGBTQ+ youth.
Olly Alexander highlights the transformation in the portrayal of gay individuals in media over time. In the past, LGBTQ+ narratives were often tragic, denoting a sense of hopelessness for young gay people. However, the emergence of positive representations serves as a monumental shift, providing hope and affirmation to today's youth, showcasing that their stories can be filled with joy and triumph rather than tragedy.
In practice
In a speech at a pride event, I could use this quote to emphasize the importance of representation.
What the woman who labors wants is the right to live, not simply exist — the right to life as the rich woman has the right to life, and the sun and music and art. You have nothing that the humblest worker has not a right to have also. The worker must have bread, but she must have roses, too. Help, you women of privilege, give her the ballot to fight with.
Courage is the most important attribute of a lawyer. It is more important than competence or vision. It can never be an elective in any law school. It can never be de-limited, dated or outworn, and it should pervade the heart, the halls of justice and the chambers of the mind.
It is my birthright, it is my political right, it is my democratic right, it is my constitutional right... that I must open my mouth... my voice... I can raise my voice.
If a fear cannot be articulated, it can't be conquered.
Hong Kong people do not keep silent and I urge people around the world to keep their eyes on Hong Kong and the passion with which people are fighting for basic rights. We never give up and we will not be silenced.
Wait for the Lord. Behave yourself manfully, and be of good courage. Do not be faithless, but stay in your place and do not turn back.
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