The Native American Journalists Association forms Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee; will host member listening session during the 2023 National Native Media Conference Aug. 12
Last October the Native American Journalists Association launched the annual member survey, with the goal to better understand members’ views and to guide the process of considering a name change. NAJA leadership considers all feedback. In reviewing the survey, it has come to our attention that NAJA has failed to create an inclusive environment for our Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (2SLGBTQIA+) members and community.
The NAJA staff and board of directors extend a sincere apology for any harm that has been caused to our members who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ over the past 40 years when NAJA has taken an unspoken neutral stance in place of open and active support. We seek to remedy that.
It is NAJA’s mission to serve and empower Indigenous journalists through programs and actions designed to enrich journalism and promote Native cultures, and that includes our 2SLGBTQIA+ community that is an integral part of our cultures and traditions.
In the spirit of growth, NAJA has created a 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee. The Committee Chair is NAJA Vice President Christine Trudeau (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation). NAJA hopes to continue to grow from this and appreciates all members’ feedback.
At the upcoming 2023 National Native Media Conference in Winnipeg, the 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee will hold a members-only listening session on Saturday, Aug. 12 at 9 a.m. CST. Members not able to attend in person may join via Zoom by registering here.
Members can share feedback on how NAJA should move forward in setting goals to meet our 2SLGBTQIA+ community needs, which include: reconciliation within our community and beyond; developing a reporting best practice and terminology guide; member support; education and outreach; growing the 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee membership; pursuing partnerships and resources; and ensuring committee goals are included in the current NAJA strategic plan.
NAJA would like to thank everyone that participated in the survey. If anyone wishes to join the 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee, please email contact@naja.com.
