Matt Baume

Enjoy a guided tour through the history of queer characters on American sitcoms! With clips from All in the Family, Cheers, Will & Grace, and more, this presentation highlights the ways in which laughter and comedy have been effective tools for spurring positive cultural change and fostering a more inclusive world. Audiences will hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the making of iconic TV shows and their surprising real-world impact, as well as discover communication techniques that anyone can bring to their creative work, professional communications, and day-to-day life.

Although many organizations host Pride events, not everyone knows why these events are so important or how best to participate. The solution: A fast, fun exploration of Pride history that illuminates the reasons for the annual protests, parties, and parades. Using archival footage, historical news coverage, and moving personal stories, this presentation will help everyone make the most out of Pride, from newcomers to seasoned pros. Audiences will gain a new understanding of LGBTQ+ history, best practices for respectful inclusion, and guidance for balancing politics with parties. 

Whether with awkward confessions, sympathetic support, or jubilant celebrations, television shows have tackled LGBTQ+ coming out stories from every conceivable angle — and as a result, have plenty to teach us. This presentation delves into television history to show how the act of coming out has been depicted in decades past and today. Along the way, audiences will gain an appreciation for the best (and worst) ways to foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. 

The Golden Girls aren’t just four funny ladies! Between the laughs, their ‘80s sitcom is loaded with life lessons about being an effective ally to the queer community. Whether helping friends to come out on their own terms, understanding the importance of legal equality, or combating the stigma around HIV, these women were steadfast allies both on TV and real life. This presentation features clips from some of The Golden Girls’ funniest and most meaningful scenes, and takes audiences on a guided tour of various ways that anyone can support and uplift marginalized communities.