The nominees for the 26th annual GLAAD media awards were announced early this morning, giving recognition to The Imitation Game, Looking, Against Me!, Dear White People, Big Freedia, and Sam Smith, among many others. The awards according to GLAAD, exist (according to GLAAD's website) in order to "recognize and honor media for their fair, accurate and inclusive representations of the LGBT community and the issues that affect their lives."

Notably, the GLAAD awards are always a controversial topic. Many have criticized the organization for their lack of trans-inclusiveness (something they are clearly actively trying to address), their narrow view of political correctness, and their affirmation of a very specific kind of homo-normative morals and ethics.

That being said, the nominees this year include a diverse range of artists, movies, performers, and musicians. GLAAD has also expanded some categories to include ten nominees instead of five, surely a sign of progress in LGBT representation in the media.

GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis had this to say about the awards:

For nearly 30 years, the GLAAD Media Awards have raised the bar for inclusion in news and entertainment, transforming LGBT representation in media and moving the dial for acceptance across the globe ... It's been a remarkable year for equality, and nowhere is that more evident than in the visibility LGBT people have gained across media. This year's nominees, including expanded categories in Outstanding Comedy and Drama Series, reflect the widening diversity of LGBT images and storylines that are closing the gap to full acceptance.

The GLAAD Media Awards ceremonies will be held in Los Angeles on March 21, 2015 at The Beverly Hilton and in New York on May 9 at the Waldorf Astoria New York. Check out the full list of nominees here or in the video, below!

Finally, we're curious how TheBacklot readers would vote in 3 of GLAAD's film & TV categories. Please share your preferences!