GLAAD Media Awards are used to celebrate the parts of the world's media that responds best to, and represents most accurately, the LGBT community. 2012 has been another major year in the quest for gender and sexual equality for all, particularly in the ongoing campaign for gay marriage. This year's nominations have thrown in a couple of surprises, and it seems that increasingly the impact of children and the importance of raising children in an open and accepting framework has become more important, as both Here Comes Honey Boo Boo and Paranorman are included in the lists.

Here Comes Honey Boo Boo has been criticised by many as an exploitation of 'trailer trash' and for Honey Boo Boo's (real name Alana) involvement in child pageants. However, Mama June - Alana's mother - is definitely doing something right. Raising her children to be accepting and loving of their 'Uncle Poodle' who is openly gay in the show is integral to see for other youngsters whose own parents may not have the same liberal view points.

Likewise, the animated chidren's movie ParaNorman has also been nominated in the category for Outstanding Film (wide release). It tells the story of a boy (Norman) who is bullied and ostracised for his special abilities. The triumph of Norman, against the odds, is precisely what GLAAD hopes to preach. 

Both Here Comes Honey Boo Boo and ParaNorman are worthy nominees and hopefully future GLAAD Media Awards will continue to see a greater emphasis on the importance not only of the representation of children, but also of shows aimed to educate children in wider beliefs of equality.