Center trans peoples’ voices and experiences, allowing us to share our stories in a respectful and empowering manner. This approach helps to counteract victim-blaming narratives and fosters empathy and understanding. Despite overwhelming violence, trans people are brilliant, creative people, achieving incredible feats across industries.

By prioritizing the discussion of systemic violence, journalists can provide a more comprehensive understanding of how various institutions intersect in such a way to create the conditions for this violence, including education, employment, healthcare, housing, and government agencies like ICE.

When reporting on anti-trans violence, it is essential to highlight community-led solutions that don’t rely on state intervention. Some examples include trans-led initiatives, grassroots organizations, and projects that are actively working towards addressing violence against trans individuals. By centering these solutions, you can empower communities to be seen as agents of change and reduce reliance on carceral measures.

As a journalist, it’s important to prioritize accuracy while still meeting deadlines. A good general rule to avoid replicating mis- or disinformation is by only publishing details your own newsroom has verified. At times, this may require you to publish partial information, particularly in breaking news stories, then update it once you’ve verified an individual’s gender identity.