From the G word to the L word.

In "Advertising and the political economy of lesbian/gay identity," Fejes points out that some years back- many corporations were extremely reluctant to be associated with anything that was seen as being homosexual. Whereas today there are many open media advertisements or shows promote homosexuality, sort of like a brand.
Showtime, broadcasted a very popular series called "The L Word(2004-2009)," it portrays the lifes of a group of Lesbian and their lives, families and lovers in a trendy LA area in Hollywood. The opening credits celebrate these lesbians , an example of the lyrics-"Women who long, love, lust.. Women who give. This is the way It’s the way that we live." Many people (not just lesbians) watched this series through interest to learn how lesbians supposedly "live". To be gay has almost become a trend, as Fejes identifies, "as a group they were seen as more cutting edge" (216). Another close link to this point is the song I kissed a girl"-Katy Perry, it almost justifies that it's trendy and fun to be Gay, which totally blows aware previous beliefs.

Advertising and Homosexuality

The reading Advertising and the Political Economy of Lesbian/Gay Identity, by Fred Fejes, brought to attention some connections between consumerism and gay rights. I had never really made the connection between the influence gay men had in the consumer market and their progress towards equality. It makes complete sense to me now. When advertisers realized large the potential market of gay men in regards to things like the fashion industry and travel industry, they began to optimize on the possible money maker. By advertising and creating a market for gay demographics, the image of homosexuality began to change. Through advertisements and marketing opinions and views of homosexuality began to be seen in a more positive light. I find it ironic how the progression of gay equality moved faster through their role as consumers and as a large advertising target (pg. 213). I found an Image I feel relates to the issue brought to attention by this article. When the fashion industry began to realize the potential profit of marketing to gays, a few designers got around the early social problems by utilizing "gay window advertising" (214). I feel this image is filled with gay subtext.