We created the first-ever searchable database of 259 LGBTQ characters in cartoons that bust the myth that kids can't handle inclusion

LGBTQ representation in kids' television has had to overcome much pushback, but now the tides are turning.

Over the past decade, inclusion in cartoons has undergone a noticeable shift, including increasing in frequency, nuance, and overtness of LGBTQ characters and queer culture.

Among those leading the charge for greater LGBTQ representation in kids' series are platforms such as Netflix and Cartoon Network, as well as shows such as "Steven Universe," "She-Ra and the Princesses of Power," "Craig of the Creek," and "The Loud House."

To evaluate how far LGBTQ inclusion has come, and how far it has to go, Insider has produced a first-of-its-kind searchable database that tracks the historical presence of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, asexual, and other sexual and gender minority characters in animated children's television.

This independently-collected database assesses one identity community's evolving relationship with the small screen by cataloging credited and confirmed LGBTQ characters on animated kids' series in the US.

Insider also spoke with studio executives, showrunners, writers, and related experts to explore the hard-fought behind-the-scenes efforts to diversify LGBTQ narratives. Altogether, these facets provide a better understanding of the continuous transformation of LGBTQ media.

Here's our findings.