Local and national organizations released the annual Iowa LGBTQ Media Guide today, to provide accurate information and encourage appropriate representation of the LGBTQ community in the media. One Iowa, Transformations Iowa, Interfaith Alliance of Iowa, GLAAD, and Progress Iowa jointly released the guide, which can be viewed by clicking here.
The following leaders issued statements to be included in the Iowa LGBTQ Media Guide:
“One Iowa is a statewide nonprofit that empowers, educates, and advocates for LGBTQ Iowans. We are challenging the media to keep learning about the LGBTQ community and how to amplify their voices. We ask that you not only report on the harmful legislation or attacks on the LGBTQ community but to lift up the voices of LGBTQ Iowans that add to the quality of life in Iowa every day.”
- Courtney Reyes, Executive Director, One Iowa
“Pride is about living our lives fully and free from fear. Accurate storytelling and reporting about LGBTQ lives and the realities is an essential part of that process. This guide will help Iowans understand and accept their LGBTQ family, neighbors, and fellow citizens.”
- Ross Murray, Senior Director, GLAAD Media Institute
“Interfaith Alliance of Iowa is a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community working on issues of inclusion and fighting against discrimination for more than two decades. We will always advocate for the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ Iowans and stand against any effort that misuses religion to discriminate. We encourage the media to be a partner in this effort by studying the guide and using it as a trusted resource for respectful language based in best practices.”
- Connie Ryan, Executive Director, Interfaith Alliance of Iowa
Included in the guide, which can be viewed by clicking here, are an overview of the LGBTQ community in Iowa, including demographics, a background on Iowa laws, and best practices for LGBTQ coverage, including a glossary of common terms.
