OUT FRONT Magazine: From Local Rag to LGBTQ+ Media Powerhouse

 

First ever OUT Front Magazine cover
First ever OUT Front Magazine cover

OUT FRONT Magazine, founded in 1976 by Phil Price, stands as the second oldest independent LGBTQ publication in the United States. Based in Denver, Colorado, the magazine has been a cornerstone of the LGBTQ community for nearly five decades, providing news, features, and resources. Now known as OFM, the publication continues its mission to cater to the needs and desires of the LGBTQ community in the Rocky Mountain region and beyond, offering thought-provoking editorial, latest news, and engaging content. Throughout its history, OFM has undergone several ownership changes, with the most recent transition occurring in October 2020 when Maggie Philips and Addison Herron-Wheeler acquired Q Publishing Group Ltd., the parent company of OFM. Addison is also one of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce’s 40 under 40 award winners. As one of the nation’s oldest continuously running, independently owned, and operated LGBTQ media companies, OFM takes pride in its journalistic integrity and commitment to serving the community.

Editorial Focus and Impact

OUT FRONT Magazine, or OFM, has maintained a steadfast commitment to journalistic integrity and community representation throughout its nearly five-decade history. The publication’s editorial focus reflects the diverse voices and experiences within the LGBTQ community, tackling a wide range of topics from local news to global issues affecting queer individuals. This section explores the key areas of OFM’s editorial content and the significant impact it has had on its readership and the broader community.

Amplifying Underrepresented Voices

OFM has consistently prioritized the amplification of underrepresented voices within the LGBTQ community. The publication actively seeks out stories and perspectives from individuals who are often marginalized or overlooked in mainstream media. This includes dedicated coverage of issues affecting transgender individuals, queer people of color, and members of the LGBTQ community with disabilities. By providing a platform for these voices, OFM ensures a more comprehensive and nuanced representation of the queer experience. This commitment to inclusivity has fostered a sense of belonging among readers who may not see themselves reflected in other media outlets, ultimately strengthening the fabric of the LGBTQ community in the Rocky Mountain region and beyond.

OUT Front Magazine July-Issue cover
hoto Credit Ivy Owens

Documenting LGBTQ History

Since its inception in 1976, OFM has served as a crucial chronicler of LGBTQ history. The publication has documented significant moments and movements, from the AIDS crisis of the 1980s to the legalization of same-gender marriage and the ongoing struggles for trans rights. This historical record provides an invaluable resource for researchers, activists, and community members seeking to understand the evolution of LGBTQ rights and culture. By preserving these stories and experiences, OFM ensures that the triumphs and challenges of the queer community are not forgotten, fostering a sense of continuity and shared heritage among its readers.

Addressing Contemporary Issues

While honoring its historical roots, OFM remains firmly focused on addressing contemporary issues facing the LGBTQ community. The publication tackles topics such as political advocacy, healthcare access, workplace discrimination, and the intersectionality of queer identities with race, class, and gender. OFM’s coverage extends beyond mere reporting, offering in-depth analysis and thought-provoking commentary that encourages readers to engage critically with these issues. This approach not only keeps the community informed but also equips readers with the knowledge and perspectives needed to navigate the complex landscape of modern LGBTQ life.

Out front Magazine's June 2024 Cover
Photo Credit Ivy Owens

Advertising with OUT FRONT Magazine: Reaching the LGBTQ+ Community

OUT FRONT Magazine (OFM) offers a unique opportunity for businesses and organizations to connect with the LGBTQ+ community through various advertising channels. Since 1976, OFM has been a trusted platform for companies looking to engage with queer audiences, providing a range of advertising options to suit different needs and budgets. The publication’s advertising offerings span across multiple platforms, including its monthly print magazine, website (outfrontmagazine.com), and social media channels. Print advertising in OFM’s monthly magazine allows for lasting impact with various ad sizes and placements available, while digital advertising on the website offers real-time analytics and responsive design for both desktop and mobile devices. Social media advertising through OFM’s platforms provides highly targeted options to reach specific demographics within the LGBTQ+ community.

For maximum impact, OFM offers integrated advertising packages that combine print, digital, and social media advertising, ensuring a cohesive marketing strategy across multiple channels. Additionally, event sponsorship opportunities allow businesses to engage directly with the LGBTQ+ community at OFM-organized events, providing face-to-face interaction and brand visibility in a community-focused setting. Advertisers interested in reaching the LGBTQ+ community through OFM can contact the marketing team at marketing@ofm.media for more information on rates, packages, and custom advertising solutions. By partnering with OFM, businesses not only gain access to a valuable demographic but also demonstrate their support for LGBTQ+ media and the community it serves, reinforcing their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

 

Q Publishing House: Amplifying Queer Voices in Literature

Q Publishing House, the book publishing arm of OFM (OUT FRONT Magazine), emerged in 2022 as a dedicated platform for queer literature. This initiative represents a significant expansion of OFM’s mission to serve and celebrate the LGBTQ community, extending its reach from periodical journalism into the world of book publishing.

A Commitment to Queer Representation

At its core, Q Publishing House is driven by a commitment to amplify and celebrate queer voices in literature. The imprint focuses on publishing titles that not only represent the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ community but also advocate for queer rights and visibility. This dedication to representation is crucial in a literary landscape where LGBTQ stories have historically been underrepresented or misrepresented.

Diverse Genres and Perspectives

Q Publishing House embraces a wide range of genres and writing styles, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the queer experience. From fiction and non-fiction to poetry and memoirs, the imprint seeks to showcase the breadth of queer literary talent. This diversity in genre allows Q Publishing House to cater to a broad readership within and beyond the LGBTQ community, fostering greater understanding and empathy through storytelling.

Supporting Emerging and Established Authors

One of the key roles of Q Publishing House is to provide a platform for both emerging and established queer authors. By offering opportunities to new voices in the community, the imprint helps nurture the next generation of LGBTQ writers. Simultaneously, it provides a dedicated space for established authors to continue exploring queer themes and experiences in their work. This dual approach ensures a dynamic and evolving catalog that reflects the contemporary queer experience while honoring its historical roots.

 

Jeff Wilson
Author: Jeff Wilson

Jeff is one of the owners of GayDenver and one of its writers. He is a Denver transplant who loves the city and the proximity of the mountains. He is happily married to his husband and loves hiking with his furbaby Thayella.