At Q.Digital, we’ve always believed in the power of authentic storytelling to amplify the voices of our vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Receiving the 2025 GLAAD Barbara Gittings Award for Excellence in LGBTQ+ Media is more than an honor—it’s deeply personal. In a time when attacks on LGBTQ+ rights are intensifying, this recognition serves as a reminder of why we do what we do: to tell our community’s stories with pride, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
As our CEO, Scott Gatz, aptly reflects:
“Before Stonewall, when Barbara Gittings was editor for The Ladder, she recognized the importance of telling our stories and seeing that we are all part of a bigger community. My hope is that we’re doing the same thing for our readers, and I am humbled that the GLAAD team thinks we are.”
Who Was Barbara Gittings?
Barbara Gittings, often referred to as the “mother of the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement,” was a pioneering activist whose work paved the way for LGBTQ+ visibility and advocacy. In 1956, she founded the New York chapter of the Daughters of Bilitis, the first lesbian civil rights organization in the U.S., and edited The Ladder, the first nationally distributed lesbian publication. Her advocacy extended to libraries, where she championed the inclusion of LGBTQ+ books and resources, and to her work with the American Psychiatric Association, contributing to the removal of homosexuality as a mental illness in 1973. Her dedication to storytelling and representation laid the foundation for the vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ media landscape we have today
To receive an award named after such a trailblazer underscores the importance of continuing her legacy by telling stories that educate, uplift, and inspire action within our community.
The Q.Digital Origin Story
Q.Digital’s journey began with the launch of GayCities. Scott Gatz recalls the moment of inspiration:
“I started GayCities after planning a trip to Boston. I was looking to stay at a Bed & Breakfast in the South End and found it hard to find reviews by like-minded people. One review was from a 70-year-old woman saying, ‘there were a lot of men there,’ and I realized then she was talking about a gay B&B. I booked it, and the idea for GayCities was born: a place where the LGBTQ+ community can share where to go, stay, and eat anywhere in the world.”
From that spark of an idea, Q.Digital grew into a network of sites tailored to different aspects of the LGBTQ+ experience. Soon after launching GayCities, Q.Digital acquired Queerty, a site focused on LGBTQ+ culture, entertainment, and politics. This was followed by LGBTQ Nation, providing news and analysis, INTO, catering to a younger Gen Z audience, and Outsports, the leading voice in LGBTQ+ sports journalism. Together, these brands form a dynamic network that entertains, informs, and connects millions of readers.
This year, Outsports also received a nomination for Outstanding Online Journalism – Video or Multimedia, a testament to the incredible storytelling and impact across the Q.Digital network.
Challenges and Resilience in LGBTQ+ Media
Building and sustaining an LGBTQ+ media network has not been without its challenges. As Scott explains:
“Over the years, we’ve seen mainstream outlets launch LGBTQ+ specific sites only to see them wither on the vine a few years later. As an LGBTQ+ owned and operated company, we’re dedicated to our community in a way mainstream companies cannot be. We’re passionate about what we do, and I hope that shows in all our work.”
The current political climate, marked by heightened attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, has only deepened Q.Digital’s resolve. Factual reporting and authentic representation are more critical than ever, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering content that resonates with and supports our vibrant and resilient community.
The Road Ahead
Looking to the future, Q.Digital’s mission remains clear: to entertain and enlighten LGBTQ+ people, amplify their voices, and inspire action. Scott shares his vision:
“Our mission feels more important than ever before and drives us forward. I’m excited by the possibilities in a world where more and more people are identifying as LGBTQ+. We’ll get to cover more perspectives, uplift more people, and learn from voices that haven’t always received the attention they deserve.”
This award is not just a milestone—it’s a call to action to continue innovating and advocating for our community. We thank GLAAD for this recognition and extend our gratitude to every contributor, reader, and partner who has supported us along the way. Together, we will keep telling the stories that matter most.
Ready to Collaborate?
To advertisers and marketers: Join us in celebrating and amplifying LGBTQ+ voices. Partner with Q.Digital on your next branded campaign and make a meaningful impact.