As queer folks, we already know that we’re the butt of many a joke. We might be the well-toned, designer-clad butt of the joke, but we’re still a source of laughter for the straight world. This collection of advertisements shows just how funny we are. But there are also some advertisers who see us not as a laughing stock, but as potential dollar signs.

As for the commercials where we’re the source of laughter, those companies can bite me – and I don’t think I have to explain why. But as for the advertisers who are aiming their ads at the LGBTQ community so they can peddle their wares, I’m a little conflicted.

On the one hand, I suppose it’s great that companies are recognizing that we’re a legit customer base. But I think it’s a little sad that most of these commercials are the same, whether they’re on Logo or ABC, and that the advertisers have only changed one or two words, or even just one actor, to make the ads “queer.” It buys into the whole mentality of “we’re just like you.” Well, I don’t want to be just like the heteros. I’m queer, and I’m different that straight folks. And I don’t think that owning Levi’s jeans or subscribing to Progressive insurance will mean that American culture is any more accepting of my queer identity than it would be if I continued to wear my jeans from the Gap.

What’s your take on these commercials? Do they represent a step forward for the queer community? Or are they gay, and not in the good way?