Washington Post Wins LGBTQ+ Journalism Award for Trans Healthcare Coverage
A Washington Post story on transgender healthcare experiences has won an NLGJA award. The article, part of a comprehensive series, highlighted discrimination and challenges faced by trans individuals in the medical system.
The Washington Post has received recognition for its groundbreaking coverage of transgender healthcare experiences. The newspaper's story, part of an extensive series on transgender life in America, has been awarded the Excellence in Health or Fitness Coverage Award by NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists.
The award-winning article, authored by health reporter Fenit Nirappil, photojournalist Carolyn Van Houten, deputy polling director Emily Guskin, and polling director Scott Clement, shed light on the challenges faced by transgender individuals in the healthcare system. The piece was based on a comprehensive survey conducted in collaboration with KFF, marking the most in-depth and representative study of transgender adults in the United States to date.
The story highlighted the experiences of transgender individuals who reported facing various forms of discrimination in healthcare settings, ranging from subtle biases to overt hostility. It also exposed the lack of knowledge among some medical professionals regarding transgender healthcare needs.
"It's so obvious how much care and love went into this study, collecting stories, presenting data in a comprehensive manner. With how many discriminating bills are being pushed everywhere it's been very hard for me to look at the news reliably. This series is something good. Something that matters and pushes forward through the noise."
The article's impact extended beyond the transgender community, resonating with a broader audience. One reader, describing himself as an "older cis straight male," expressed appreciation for the reporting, stating it helped him become a better-informed advocate and more empathetic friend.
The Washington Post's coverage employed innovative visual storytelling techniques, including remote portrait sessions via Zoom and FaceTime. This approach allowed for intimate visual narratives while respecting social distancing measures.
This award marks the second time Nirappil has been honored by NLGJA for health coverage. In the previous year, he and colleagues Dan Diamond and Lena H. Sun received recognition for their analysis of the Biden administration's response to the mpox crisis.
The recognition of this story underscores the importance of comprehensive and sensitive reporting on LGBTQ+ issues, particularly in healthcare. It reflects the growing awareness of transgender experiences and the need for improved medical care and understanding for this community.
