CNN takes ‘giant leap forward’ by featuring transgender contributors on popular news shows, GLAAD says

A growing body of research backs this guidance. The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Population Affairs points to studies showing that receiving gender-affirming care can significantly lower rates of adverse mental health outcomes for transgender and gender-diverse youth. These young people thrive when families, medical providers, and communities foster supportive environments. Without that support, however, they face higher risks of depression, suicidal ideation, and other serious health challenges.

GLAAD president and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis stressed how critical media representation is for public understanding. “When fewer than thirty percent of non-LGBTQ Americans say they personally know a transgender person, news media play an outsize role in helping introduce this vulnerable community to viewers and readers so they can appreciate their talents and challenges,” Ellis said in a statement to The Advocate. “CNN took a giant leap forward to include transgender Americans in their coverage of an especially consequential and historic day.”

She warned that the conversation could not end there. “We need all responsible media to learn and live the basics of accurate and compelling journalism: include trans voices in stories and conversations about trans lives,” she said.

Watch one of CNN’s segments that included trans voices below.

– YouTubewww.youtube.com

Original Article on The Advocate
Author: Christopher Wiggins