Rapid Response Task Force
ABOUT THE TASK FORCE
NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists members and staff work daily with our colleagues in the news industry to fulfill the organization’s mission of fair and accurate coverage. Sometimes, though, a more targeted response is required to promote greater understanding about how to fairly and accurately cover the LGBTQ community.
That’s where the Rapid Response Task Force comes in.
How does the Rapid Response Task Force work?
This panel of working journalists from mainstream and LGBTQ+ media answers complaints about reporting seen as unfair and/or inaccurate by readers, viewers, listeners and our peer journalists.
When we are notified about problematic coverage, our task force comes together virtually. They assess the reporting in question and determine the best response. Sometimes this response takes the form of an internal conversation with the news organization responsible for the coverage; at other times, we may issue a public statement in order to educate the wider industry on how to best cover a particularly delicate topic or story.
NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists was formed to help the news industry improve its coverage of LGBTQ+ people, communities and issues. Our members are ready to help share their expertise so that your coverage becomes the best it can be.
What has the Task Force accomplished?
Since its inception, the Rapid Response Task Force has not only informed countless newsrooms about appropriate terminology and the appearance of bias, but has also used these contacts to spread awareness about issues facing the LGBTQ+ community.
How can I reach the Task Force?
Work from the Task Force
Covering Anti-DEI Executive Orders
In the first few months of the second Trump administration, the president has targeted diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility efforts that allegedly violate the Constitution and civil rights laws. This guidance prepares journalists with tools to cover these actions and their effects.
Statement in support of journalists covering nationwide protests
NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists calls on local, state and federal authorities to uphold and enforce the First Amendment rights of journalists. The use of federal power to intimidate or obstruct the press represents a dangerous overreach of authority and a direct threat to the foundation of a free society.
A Statement On Recent Coverage from the Baltimore Sun
NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists agrees with the Baltimore Sun Guild in their call on co-owner Armstrong Williams to return to the ethical standards and practices employed by the paper prior to its recent acquisition. A free press is strongest when it is...
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