ABC Family's 'The Fosters' breaks new ground with Jude and Connor kiss

ABC Family's hit drama The Fosters, about a lesbian couple raising their mix of biological, foster, and adopted children, last night featured a sweet kiss between Jude Adams Foster (the Fosters' youngest adopted child) and his best friend Connor. Their story has been evolving slowly since season one as the boys explore their feelings for each other. Check out a clip of Jude and Connor from last night's episode, "Now Hear This," below.

In one of their first scenes together, the boys bond when Connor paints his nails in a show of solidarity with Jude who was being bullied at school for doing the same. Jude spoke with his mom, Lena, about when she first knew she was gay and alluded to something happening between him and Connor during a school camping trip. The two in last week's episode had a moment where they linked pinkies while at the movies and Jude's frustration with their undefined feelings led to him confronting Connor in last night's episode, leading to their kiss.

Studies have shown that more and more LGBT people are coming out in their teens and that those who come out at school have higher rates of self-esteem in the long term. For LGBT youth, stories like this are a powerful moment to see themselves represented and recognize they aren't alone. These characters are also able to nurture understanding and acceptance in their peer groups, ultimately creating a safer environment for LGBT youth.

The Fosters, which received the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Drama Series at the 25^th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, also last season introduced transgender teen Cole (played by trans actor Tom Phelan) as one of the kids staying at the group home for girls that main character Callie finds herself in after running away from her foster family. Jennifer Lopez, who serves as the series Executive Producer, was also honored with GLAAD's Vanguard Award last year.

The Fosters is again nominated in Outstanding Drama Series at the 26^th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, get your tickets now. Catch all new episodes of The Fosters on ABC Family, Mondays at 8pm.