Art, Expression, and Identity | Authentic Lives
About
Art is often an expression of one’s true self—a medium utilized by many individuals in the queer community to explore their identities. Meet two Pittsburgh area artists whose work provides insight and understanding into the experiences of LGBTQIA+ artists.
Queer and transgender people are not only underrepresented in the media, but reporting on these communities is often focused on negative stories. The mission of Authentic Lives is to showcase positive stories and explore the vibrancy of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Pittsburgh region—and beyond. For more information and resources, visit WQED’s Authentic Lives webpage.
Sensitive: This resource contains material that may be sensitive for some students. Teachers should exercise discretion in evaluating whether this resource is suitable for their class.
Credits: WQED Multimedia
Standards
PA Academic Standards (Grades 9–12)
📘 PA Core ELA Standards (9–12)
Speaking & Listening
- CC.1.5.9–10.A / CC.1.5.11–12.A
Initiate and participate effectively in collaborative discussions about complex issues, diverse identities, and lived experiences. - CC.1.5.9–10.B / CC.1.5.11–12.B
Integrate and evaluate information from media sources (the videos) during discussion. - CC.1.5.9–10.D / CC.1.5.11–12.D
Present claims and findings clearly during class dialogue or reflective sharing. - CC.1.5.9–10.E / CC.1.5.11–12.E
Use multimedia (video content) to support discussion points.
Reading Informational Text (Discussion Support)
- CC.1.2.9–10.I / CC.1.2.11–12.I
Analyze diverse perspectives and evaluate how individuals shape and are shaped by their experiences.
🌎 PA Social Studies Standards (9–12)
Civics & Government
- 5.2.12.A–D
Engage in respectful dialogue, demonstrate empathy, and evaluate civic responsibilities — all central to conversations about identity and community.
History & Culture
- 8.4.12.A–D
Analyze global and cultural perspectives; compare lived experiences across communities.
Sociology / Human Behavior
- 6.1.12.A–D
Discuss how individuals and groups interact, form identity, and navigate society. - 7.3.12.A–C
Examine cultural characteristics and how they influence personal and collective identity.
🎨 PA Arts & Humanities Standards (9–12)
Historical & Cultural Context
- 9.2.12.A–C
Discuss how culture and lived experience shape artistic expression.
💼 PA Career Education & Work Standards (9–12)
Career Awareness & Preparation
- 13.1.11.A–F
Reflect on personal strengths, identity, and future pathways — often sparked by hearing others’ stories.
Career Acquisition & Retention
- 13.2.11.A–D / 13.3.11.A–D
Discuss communication, collaboration, adaptability, and resilience — themes that appear throughout the videos.
🧠 Health, Safety & Social/Emotional Development (9–12)
Health & Wellness
- 10.1.12.A–C
Discuss how personal experiences influence emotional and mental well‑being.
Interpersonal Skills
- 10.2.12.A–E
Engage in respectful dialogue, active listening, and perspective‑taking.
Responsible Behavior
- 10.3.12.A–C
Reflect on how identity and choices affect oneself and others.
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