Whether you’re like me — endlessly searching — or new to exploring queer media, here’s a carefully selected, colourful, Pride media care package from your trusted rainbow dealer.
- She-Ra and the Princesses of Power (2018-2020)
We’ll take a minute to show respect for series like Steven Universe (2013-2019), The Owl House (2020-2023), and even Harley Quinn (2019-). They’re all great, and you should write them down. Regardless, my standout pick is this revamped, very gay reboot of the OG She-Ra: Princess of Power (1985-1987).
Featuring multiple queer characters, this reboot tells the story of Adora, a soldier from the evil Horde who realizes she might be on the wrong side of the war upon discovering a magical sword. Forgiveness and much-needed compassion are at this show’s core. This is the series I wish I had while growing up — gay love saving the world? Sign me up!
Could I have chosen Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way”? Absolutely. Was I tempted by Queen’s legendary discography and Erasure’s sultry “A Little Respect”? Without a doubt. Countless queer anthems and music artists deserve recognition — past icons like Ma Rainey, Sylvester, Elton John, and modern ones like Lil Nas X, Sam Smith, and Dove Cameron. Ultimately, I want to recommend this queer classic about a smalltown boy escaping his homophobic town in search of a better, freer life. Released in 1984, this song highlighted the struggles, resilience, and survival of the queer community. More than 40 years later, it remains an essential pride anthem, and yes, it holds a permanent spot in my Just Dance 2022 Pride playlist.
- The Sims 3 (2009)
When The Sims introduced same-sex marriage, my sister was so excited that she showed our equally enthusiastic cousins about this progressive feature. This elation was not shared by one of our family members, who threatened to cut us off from the lives of our cousins, lest we demonize their souls.
The Sims franchise has never been my kind of game. Yet, undoubtedly, it deserves a spot on this list, because small things, such as a simple variation of the code, allowing you agency to choose love and let be, can mean the world to a marginalized community. Any video game that can spark such outrage from the public needs to be recognized (Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023), I’m also looking at you).
Shoutout also to independent video game developer Don’t Nod who constantly makes queer-inclusive games and has mega queer hits, like Life is Strange (2015), Tell Me Why (2020) and Lost Records: Bloom & Rage (2025).
- Sense8 (2015-2018)
This is a TV-MA show, and if you’re going to watch next to your mom, brace yourself for the occasional awkward comment when many orgies grace your screen. Sexy stuff aside, this piece of art tells the story of eight strangers from all over the world who find out they’re all linked —which puts a target on their backs. Culturally relevant, and unapologetically queer, this series explores empathy and celebrates human connection, undoubtedly making it the pinnacle of the legendary Wachowski sisters’ 2SLGBTQIA+ storytelling.
Despite cancellation after two seasons, the love was such that fans rallied for closure and were given a finale special that wrapped the story — heartfelt thanks to the fans.
- Pride (2014)
I’ve seen a myriad of queer films — I sobbed to Philadelphia (1993) and Boys Don’t Cry (1999), laughed at the utter nonsense of But I’m a Cheerleader (1999), and Booksmart (2019), and my heart was on the line throughout Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019). I’ve cherished and reflected the queer experience along each one of them — choosing one was painful.
Based on real events, Pride (2014) tells the story of queer activists supporting British miners during their 1984-85 strike — sparking an unlikely allyship. A once-in-a-lifetime film that challenges preconceptions about Pride and encourages conversation and tolerance. It showcases the struggles of activism in a profound way and I can’t think of a better film to represent this colourful season.
I know things are hard, but our community has moved forward with less than we have now. We are strong, we won’t give up. We’ve overcome and we will keep doing so — that’s why we are proud. Pride does not end in June for us. Pride is forever in our souls, hearts, and our fight. May you cherish the benefits reaped by those who came before, and ramp it up for those who come next.
