GLAAD Decides to Include LGBT Media in Annual Media Awards

In a significant policy shift, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation will allow LGBT media to submit nominations for its annual GLAAD Media Awards. GLAAD President Neil Giuliano stated his organization's board approved the change in their June meeting as a way to reflect continued changes within media.

"With the expansion of cable channels and niche programming, LGBT created and consumed media is more readily available than ever before," he said. "Our Board has decided to incorporate LGBT media submissions into the existing competitive categories. We welcome the opportunity for LGBT media to submit their journalism and programming for consideration."

Giuliano's statement further details GLAAD's rationale behind its decision to exclude LGBT media in the late 1990s but fails to acknowledge here! Senior Vice President of Corporate and Marketing Communications Stephen Macias' very public criticism of the organization's previous policy earlier this year. This brouhaha significantly tarnished GLAAD's credibility among many activists and benefactors within the movement for LGBT rights. The organization remains hyper-sensitive to its perception and image within its various constituencies. The board's decision is a direct attempt to repair GLAAD's damaged reputation among these various stakeholders.