Telling trans stories: Disrupting sensationalized media coverage

The transgender community has become the target of political speech in the 21st century. Prominent narratives sensationalize trans identities, using stories of individual transgender subjects or de-transitioners to frame “gender ideology” as a threat to society. This panel will provide a platform for experienced LGBTQIA+ journalists to share reporting strategies, give insight into the high-tension modern digital media landscape, and de-sensationalize trans issues.

Panelists:

• Tre’vell Anderson (they/them), president, Transgender Journalists Association
• Cody Hays (they/them), LGBT media scholar, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism & Mass Communication
• Joseph Jaafari (he/him), editor in chief, LOOKOUT news
• Leo Legay (he/him), independent environmental reporter
• Albert Serna (he/him), at-large director (2024-2025), NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists