When it comes to diversity in the media, pop culture has definitely changed the way it presents
society in the last decade. Body diversity, awareness of chronic health conditions, LGBTQIA+
representation, mental health and the normalization of the struggles of the human experience
have all slowly been displayed throughout the media. Specifically in 2021, pop culture has made
several advances towards diversity in the media on television shows, magazine covers, fashion
runways, red carpet events and even on the big screen. Check out some of the many diverse
strides made during 2021!
1. Jojo Siwa and Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy become the first same-gender dance duo on
ABC’s hit television show, Dancing With the Stars
After thirty seasons and being on the air for sixteen years, Dancing With the Stars allowed a
same-gender dancing duo on their lineup for season thirty. Jojo Siwa, an eighteen year old
singer, actor, and dancer, was paired with Dancing With the Stars veteran: Jenna Johnson
Chmerkovskiy. Although the pair placed second in the competition, they made history on the
television show. Jojo and Jenna’s participation in the competition allowed for viewers to get a
glimpse into a different way of perceiving dance competitions.
2. Lila Moss proudly displays her insulin pump on the Milan Fashion week runway
Over a million Americans live with Type 1 diabetes, but yet the chronic condition is still not
normalized throughout the media. We often see models on runways painted to perfection,
covering up any possible differences that may make them unique. In this case, Lila Moss–– a
nineteen year old living with Type 1 diabetes–– strutted the runway during Milan Fashion week
while proudly showing off her insulin pump on her leg. The importance of normalizing any chronic
condition including diabetes is crucial to creating a body inclusive society. Although it might
seem small, Lila Moss contributed to the push of diversity in the fashion industry during one of
the most covered fashion shows in the media.
3. Bretman Rock becomes the first openly gay male on a Playboy cover
Playboy has long been advertised for the straight male gaze, but along with 2021’s efforts to
create a more diverse environment the magazine displayed Bretman Rock on the front cover.
Not only is he included in the list of the very few men that have been involved with the franchise,
but also the first openly gay man on the front cover. Bretman Rock, who rose to fame as a
Youtuber and Viner, wore a black corset along with black tights and the famous Playboy bunny
ears. Bretman Rock’s appearance on Playboy’s magazine cover brings representation to the
LGBTQIA+ community and defies society’s standard surrounding masculinity.
4. Winnie Harlow’s not afraid to show what makes her different in her AMAs red carpet dress
Winnie Harlow, a model with the skin condition known as vitiligo, stunned onlookers at the
American Music Awards red carpet wearing a sheer jeweled mini dress. Ever since her rise to
fame in the modeling industry, she has been outspoken about her skin condition vitiligo.
Harlow’s attempts at normalizing not only her skin condition but others, has allowed for the
modeling industry to expand their horizons and build upon their diversity.
5. Gonzo from the hit television show Muppet Babies is challenging gender stereotypes, one
dress at a time
Disney Junior’s cartoon series known as Muppet Babies released an episode challenging
gender stereotypes. Gonzo (they/them) is thrilled with the option of a bright blue Cinderella-like
dress to wear to the royal ball, but their excitement soon turns into disappointment when one of
their friends suggests that they should go as a prince instead. Going against their friend’s
opinions, Gonzo is transformed into a princess and gets to wear the dress. Gonzo’s challenging
of gender norms allows for young viewers to learn to accept and respect others for their gender
identity. Having the show geared towards a young audience allows for children to be educated
early to ensure a more accepting view on others when they grow up.
During this year, we have made incredible strides to build a more diverse community and a
comfortable environment for others to feel accepted for their differences. Ranging from the
fashion runway to children’s television shows, 2021 has contributed to building society one
diverse step at a time. With that being said, although we have made the effort for more diversity,
we still have a long way to go till we can successfully say we built a completely inclusive
environment. In order to reach this goal it has to start with someone, and that someone could be
you! Take a step back, look at your surroundings, think outside the box and you just might do
more to help than you think you ever could.
Here’s to 2022, and enhancing society one diverse step at a time!