Video: Viewer requests less les; we request less explanation

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09/05/2008

Okay, so we don't want to make it sound as if we are up in arms about this video from today's edition of "Today." We're not in "angry activist" mode at all. However, something about the need to justify girl-girl kissing does kind of annoy us:

What we really find annoying is the need to make the same-sex kiss sound humorous or "tongue-in cheek" in order for it to be acceptable. Why? Why not instead help this viewer understand that same-sex kissing is a very real concept in this world, one that is perfectly okay being addressed in a song. Sure, in this particular song, the story might involve a surprising smooch experienced by a seemingly heterosexual girl. But the concept of lady lip-locks is neither a joke nor a "controversy." It is a reality.

We don't think Matt is at all homophobic -- we just think he's demonstrating the casual biases that still plague gay and lesbian love. Far too many potential allies are still allowing themselves to be scolded for their decision to view non-controversial ideas non-controversially. They're also feeling too much of a need to dignify the notion that gay love poses a threaten to children. Those who are "disappointed" in LGBT portrayals are often given a pass rather than a lesson. And "teachable moments" are being forfeited in the process, out of fear that sticking up for one certain population sect will alienate another.

We totally get that network TV is a crowd-pleasing game, with "controversy" holding as much anxiety for anchors as a broken teleprompter or a shiny forehead. And we think the broadcast nets and personalities have certainly made positive strides towards getting to where we need to be. But until we get to the place where the Matt Lauer's of the world can look Brenda in the eye and say, "Oh, well same-sex kisses are not controversial -- end of discussion," then we still have some ways to go.

Today Show Video [TodayShow.com]