How to Write About Trans Issues: Global Edition

Resources in this section provide general guidance on reporting trans issues, no matter where you are reporting from. 

1. Reference Guide – Transgender (GLAAD Media)

This step-by-step glossary explains which terms and phrases should be used and which should be avoided when talking about trans people in the media. 

1. Why Using “Sex Change” is Problematic and Recommendation (All About Trans) 

This summary explains why “sex change” should not be used either to describe a transgender person or the process of gender transition. The summary suggests alternatives that are embraced by most people who identify as trans. 

1. Guide for Journalists (Transgender for Europe), Media Style Guide (Trans Media Watch) & Tips for Writing and Editing Transgender News Stories (All About Trans)

All three resources provide useful guidance to journalist about questions of style and language when it comes to reporting on trans issues and trans people. Crucially, these resources ask the media to avoid mentioning the fact that someone is transgender unless it relates directly to the story. In addition, these guides bust some commonly-held misconceptions about trans individuals, their rights and bodies.

Transgender for Europe’s Guide for Journalists is the most detailed of the three.

For a comprehensive overview of educational resources designed specifically to help media actors to report about trans and non-binary issues, read ‘Resources for the Media’ by All About Trans. 

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