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Disappointing tweet from Media Watch host misses the point

Updated: Media Watch host gets a lesson on correct terminology for transgenders following a tweet about Caitlyn Jenner.

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Media Watch host Paul Barry has been criticised on social media and print for a tweet responding to press stories about Caitlyn Jenner, following her Vanity Fair cover.

Many took to Twitter to express their disappointment in the ABC host, firstly for being critical of recent media coverage and secondly for failing to use respectful gender terminology, by referring to “he” and “Bruce” rather than “she” and “Caitlyn.”

Most responded by saying coverage would raise broader awareness for transgenders, who face issues including discrimination and suicide.

https://twitter.com/marrowing/status/605892793869869057

Other ABC bulletins such as The World Today, have reported Caitlyn Jenner transgender story will raise awareness in Australia and that Caitlyn Jenner’s Vanity Fair cover takes Transgender issues into mainstream.

Paul Barry may also have missed many of the guidelines and website that offer helpful advice for referring to transpeople:

Australian Government guidelines on the recognition of Sex and Gender recommends:
Gender/preferred gender
Gender is part of a person’s social and personal identity. It refers to each person’s deeply felt internal and individual identity and the way a person presents and is recognised within the community. A person’s gender refers to outward social markers, including their name, outward appearance, mannerisms and dress. A person’s sex and gender may not necessarily be the same. An individual’s preferred gender may or may not correspond with the sex or gender assigned at birth and some people may identify as neither male nor female.

There are also:
Transgender Victoria
GLAAD
Gender Identity Australia

And -ironically- there is even a UK site called Trans Media Watch advising, “We are a charity dedicated to improving media coverage of trans and intersex issues.”

Or please just sit down and binge Transparent?

Updated:

3 Responses

  1. Overpaid and underworked!
    Caitlin Jenner may still have male genitals, but gee, regardless of the Kardie hype, what a public transformation. You have to admire that alone

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