by Fred Kuhr

In order to get a better grasp on the state of LGBTQ media in the U.S., the LGBTQ+ Media Mapping Project launched in January. Now, organizers are asking LGBTQ media outlets to participate.

“LGBTQ+ media have often been left behind when it comes to new types of funding, in part because it’s difficult to quantify who and where we are,” Tracy Baim, research lead and co-founder of Chicago-based Windy City Times, previously told Press Pass Q.

“It’s important to have this information so we can take it to potential funders in those areas of the country to make sure those media outlets are counted. What I hope it helps do is show the gaps too,” Baim said. “So let’s say you’re a publication in one state and there’s nothing we found for LGBTQ media in the next state over. Does it make sense to see if there could be resources to expand additional coverage?”

The project is in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation, City University of New York’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism Center for Community Media, and the Local Media Foundation.

“This type of work has not been done before,” added Penny Riordan, director of collaboration and Local News Fund at the Local Media Association and the Local Media Foundation. “This could lead to funding for LGBTQ+ media — for technology and infrastructure, audience growth, editorial support, training, and more.”

This is part of a new effort known as Press Forward, which was created to fund local journalism. There are more than 30 Press Forwards across the U.S., and one Press Forward nationally. More than half a billion in philanthropic dollars are going to flow into local media over the next five years, said Riordan.

“To make sure LGBTQ+ media are part of this mix, let’s provide them with a comprehensive look at our local and national LGBTQ+ media outlets, so they can find you to fund you,” said Riordan. “Please help us count you by completing this survey.”

Virtual focus groups and one-on-one interviews will follow, and stipends will be offered to focus groups participants.

Baim said the goal is to release the data in June or July. “That’s a pretty quick turnaround but we feel like it would be great to have it available for upcoming conferences, to make sure that information is shared with the philanthropic world,” Baim added.

The survey is available at https://airtable.com/app4po85YGzTRir0Q/shrumYPinCOdFohjS

If you prefer to complete the survey by phone, contact hanna.j.siemaszko@gmail.com.

IN THE NEWS
Volume 27
Issue 1