Q.Digital Honored with Prestigious Media Award for LGBTQ+ Excellence

The esteemed LGBTQ+ media monitoring organization, GLAAD, is set to award the Barbara Gittings Award for Excellence in LGBTQ Media to Q.Digital, a prominent queer-owned and operated media company. This recognition highlights Q.Digital's significant contributions to LGBTQ+ media through its various platforms, including LGBTQ Nation, Queerty, INTO, Outsports, and GayCities.

"Barbara Gittings was a pioneer who understood the power of LGBTQ+ media to build community and inspire action," stated Scott Gatz, CEO of Q.Digital. "It is a profound honor to continue this legacy, especially in challenging times like these."

Barbara Gittings, a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ journalism, was the editor of The Ladder before the Stonewall era. She recognized the importance of sharing LGBTQ+ stories and fostering a sense of community. "My hope is that we’re doing the same thing for our readers," Gatz remarked, "and I am humbled that the GLAAD team acknowledges our efforts."

Commitment to Authentic Representation

Q.Digital's dedication to authentic representation in media is evident in its diverse array of platforms. As a queer-owned and operated entity, the company remains deeply committed to the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that their voices are both heard and amplified.

"Over the years, we've witnessed mainstream outlets attempt to launch LGBTQ+ specific sites," Gatz explained. "Unfortunately, these often falter due to a lack of genuine connection to the community. As an LGBTQ+ owned company, we are passionate about our mission and strive to reflect that passion in all our work."

Founded in 2008, Q.Digital's mission has always been to "create a world where everyone is free to be themselves and live life to the fullest." Their platforms have become vital resources for the LGBTQ+ community, offering news, advocacy, and cultural content.

Recognition of Inspirational Work

The recognition from GLAAD is not just for Q.Digital as a whole, but also for its individual platforms. One such platform, Outsports, has been nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for its online short-form video series, "Ballin' Out." This five-part series highlights the stories of LGBTQ+ athletes and coaches in Team USA's women’s wheelchair basketball team as they prepared for the World Championships.

The nomination underscores the importance of visibility in sports, showcasing the achievements and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ athletes. Through storytelling, Q.Digital continues to break down barriers and foster inclusivity, both on and off the field.

Building a Legacy

Past recipients of the Barbara Gittings Award for Excellence in LGBTQ Media include esteemed organizations such as the Washington Blade, the LA Blade, Curve magazine founder Franco Stevens, and the Windy City Times. Q.Digital is proud to join this illustrious list of honorees, each of whom has made significant contributions to advancing LGBTQ+ representation and advocacy.

"This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team," said Gatz. "We are committed to telling the stories that matter to our community, stories that celebrate our diversity and resilience."

Stay Informed and Engaged

As part of its mission to keep the community informed, Q.Digital offers newsletters that provide insights into the latest LGBTQ+ political news and cultural developments. Readers are encouraged to subscribe and stay ahead of the headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The recognition from GLAAD not only honors Q.Digital's past achievements but also sets the stage for future endeavors. With a continued focus on authenticity and community engagement, Q.Digital aims to inspire and empower its audience through impactful storytelling.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, Q.Digital stands as a beacon of hope and progress, championing the voices and stories of the LGBTQ+ community. Through innovative content and a commitment to excellence, they remain at the forefront of LGBTQ+ media, paving the way for future generations.