The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) has announced its nominees for the 2012 Amplifier Awards, and we’re happy to report that two automakers and one auto insurance company have made the cut.

If you’re a regular reader at Gaywheels, you probably already have a hunch about which automakers were included in the lineup. General Motors’ widely acclaimed “Mom, Dad, I’m Electric” ad for the Chevrolet Volt was nominated in the “Hot Spot” category, which recognizes advertisements directed specifically at LGBT consumers.

Lexus was nominated in the same category for its “Lexus Celebrates The Advocate’s 45th Anniversary” ad. As you might guess, that spot was placed in the 45th-anniversary issue of The Advocate and praised the magazine for its work “to ensure equality to all people , at work, at home, and every place in between”.

And last but not least, Allstate was recognized in the digital category for its “Equality Is _____” online campaign. Not only did that promotion encourage Americans to discuss what LGBT equality means to them, but it also raised money for LGBT centers in California. When Allstate’s website visitors agree to get a free insurance quote, Allstate donates $10 to the San Francisco LGBT Center or the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center.

Cynics might complain that these companies — like the Democratic Party — haven’t really changed their opinions about LGBT people, they’ve just realized that we’re a viable block of consumers.

GLAAD doesn’t see it that way. Sure, we are another list of consumers that could be targetted to receive marketing strategies via social media, email campaigns, or via the use of text marketing platforms, but hear us out…

GLAAD president, Herndon Graddick, expressed real excitement about the growing visibility of the LGBT community, especially in ads: “Americans expect to see their worlds reflected in advertising, and today that includes LGBT people and families. This year’s nominated campaigns are not only smart business decisions, but set the bar high for future images of our community in advertising and marketing.”

Congrats to Chevy/GM, Lexus, and Allstate on their nominations. Here’s hoping that next year’s awards are even more competitive thanks to growing sentiment in favor of LGBT equality.

If you’d like to attend the GLAAD Amplifier Awards yourself, save the date of October 2, 2012. The ceremony will be held at XL Nightclub, 512 West 42nd Street in New York City. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.