Comparing U.S News Media Depictions of Anti-Trans Fatal Violence Between 2022 and 2023

• In Event: Media Portrayals of Violent Victimization

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To examines and compare news media coverage of victims of anti-trans fatal violence in the United States between 2022 and 2023. Anti-trans fatal violence refers to the hate-motivated murder of transgender and gender-diverse individuals.

DATA/METHODS
Using a mixed-methods content analysis of media articles published in US news outlets between 2022 and 2023, the authors examine how transgender and gender-diverse victims of fatal hate crimes are portrayed.

RESULTS
Historically, representation of transgender victims of violence have been fraught with negative stereotypes that responsibilizes victims for their own violence. Our findings reveal a positive progression of portrayals with journalists typically framing anti-trans fatal violence (i.e., transphobia) as a systemic issue. Further, the voices and perspectives of community stakeholders, including Queer organizations and advocates, reflect a site of anger in response to anti-trans legislation and governmental failings to protect sexual and gender minorities.

CONCLUSIONS
This study adds to the limited research on the portrayal of anti-trans fatal violence in the United States.

Authors

• Hannah Jane Walsh, Queen's University

• Jennifer Silcox, King's University College at Western University