Queer Americans have a canon of the pop culture moments most important to the community: Puck on the Real World, the Will and Grace kiss, and more recent examples like Lil Nas X’s Montero video. Our affinity for the cultural products and institutions that have been out front in the battle for representation makes sense– when you’re trying to convince people of your humanity, music and storytelling become essential tools rather than diverting entertainment. But while the LGBTQ+ community in the U.S. rightly celebrates the American pop culture moments that have helped spur progress over the past few decades, they’ve traditionally missed out on the importance of the Eurovision Song Contest, and the many contestants who have used the stage to advance queer representation. Thankfully, American gays and theys are starting to wake-up to the nearly 70-year old queer fantasia. If you’re one of those newly minted American queer-o-vision fans, you might be surprised at how out front Eurovision has been over the years:Â
One of the most significant moments in Eurovision's queer history came in 1998 with the victory of Dana International, the show’s first trans winner. Her win was more than just a triumph in a music competition; it was a powerful statement against the backdrop of a world still grappling with deep-seated prejudices. Dana International's victory came at a time when anti-sodomy laws were still constitutional in the U.S., making her win not just an achievement for her but a beacon of hope for the entire queer community.
Fast forward to 2007, Marija Serifovic's victory with her queer-themed ballad, "Molitva," further cemented Eurovision's status as a trailblazer in queer representation. Her win, along with the second place finish for drag act Verka Serduchka, was particularly noteworthy as it came during a period when even progressive politicians like Barack Obama hadn’t yet publicly supported gay marriage.
Perhaps one of the most iconic queer moments in Eurovision's history was Conchita Wurst's victory in 2014. A bearded drag queen winning one of the world's most watched family shows was not just a triumph for Conchita but a significant milestone for queer visibility. It was a period when the GLAAD media report found that most LGBT characters in American film and TV were relegated to cameos, many of which were 'outright defamatory.' Conchita's win and subsequent role as a spokesperson for Eurovision showcased the contest's commitment to celebrating diversity in all its forms.
So, why should queer Americans tune into Eurovision? Beyond the catchy tunes, and the undeniable camp factor, Eurovision represents something much more significant. It's a testament to the progress that has been made in queer representation and a reminder of the power of solidarity and visibility.