GLAAD’s 36th Annual Media Awards Nominations: Celebrating Diversity in Comics and Graphic Novels
The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) has announced the nominees for this year’s 36th annual Media Awards, honoring media that portrays the LGBTQ+ community and their stories with fairness, accuracy, and inclusivity. This year’s list includes a vibrant assortment of comics and graphic novels from heavyweights like DC and Marvel, as well as independent publishers.
From DC Comics, "The Nice House by the Sea" and "Poison Ivy" have received nods, while Marvel has been recognized for "NYX" and "Captain Marvel." BOOM! Studios’ "I Heart Skull-Crusher" and DSTLRY’s "Spectregraph" are among the independent titles making waves.
In the graphic novel category, notable titles include "Bad Dream: A Dreamer Story" from DC, and "Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans" from A Wave Blue World.
GLAAD’s Media Awards also celebrate television, film, and podcasts. Marvel’s "Agatha All Along" was nominated for Outstanding New Series, while "Heartstopper" and "Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur" received nods in their respective categories.
Here are the full lists of nominees in the comic book and graphic novel categories:
Outstanding Comic Book
- "Alan Scott: The Green Lantern", DC Comics
- "Avengers Academy: Marvel’s Voices", Marvel Infinity Comics
- "Captain Marvel", Marvel Comics
- "I Heart Skull-Crusher", BOOM! Studios
- "The Nice House by the Sea", DC Comics
- "NYX", Marvel Comics
- "The Oddly Pedestrian Life of Christopher Chaos", Dark Horse Comics
- "Poison Ivy", DC Comics
- "Spectregraph", DSTLRY
- "Suicide Squad: Dream Team", DC Comics
Outstanding Original Graphic Novel/Anthology
- "Ash’s Cabin", First Second
- "Bad Dream: A Dreamer Story", DC Comics
- "Becoming Who We Are: Real Stories About Growing Up Trans", A Wave Blue World
- "Deadendia: The Divine Order", Union Square & Co.
- "The Deep Dark", Graphix
- "The Fox Maidens", HarperAlley
- "Lunar Boy", HarperAlley
- "My Fairy Godfather", Fantagraphics
- "The Ribbon Skirt", Graphix
- "The Science of Ghosts", Legendary Comics
GLAAD’s 36th Annual Media Awards will take place in Los Angeles on March 19, 2023. The list of nominees is a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of comics and graphic novels, reflecting the diverse stories and voices that enrich our media landscape.
A Milestone in Visibility
GLAAD’s 36th Annual Media Awards nominations showcase a powerful turning point in the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals within comics and graphic novels. This year’s diverse shortlist,spanning established publishers and emerging voices,proudly reflects the growing inclusivity and acceptance within the industry. From explorations of family and identity in titles like “The Nice House by the Sea” to empowering journeys of self-discovery in “NYX” and “Poison Ivy,” these nominated works demonstrate the boundless possibilities of storytelling through the medium. As readers engage with these narratives,they’ll encounter authentic and multifaceted LGBTQ+ characters who challenge stereotypes and inspire understanding. GLAAD’s recognition not only celebrates these powerful stories but also shines a light on the vital importance of continued progress toward full and inclusive representation in all forms of media.
The breadth and depth of this year’s GLAAD Media Award nominees in the comics and graphic novel categories demonstrate a clear and exciting trend: LGBTQ+ inclusion is no longer just a niche interest,but a vital and celebrated part of the storytelling landscape. From mainstream giants like DC and Marvel to innovative autonomous publishers,creators are increasingly embracing diverse voices and pushing the boundaries of representation. This recognition is not just a victory for LGBTQ+ individuals and their stories, but a testament to the power of storytelling to foster understanding, empathy, and a more inclusive world. As these nominated works reach wider audiences, we can hope to see continued progress towards a future where all identities are celebrated and reflected in the narratives we hold dear.
