Content warning: this story deals with discussions of eating disorders
Recently, RNZ published an article about a young person who passed away in 2023 in emergency accommodation due to his battle with his eating disorder.
However, the article has faced backlash for its portrayal of the young person.
Despite the young person in question; Alex, who identified as trans, the article, at his parents request, referred to him by his deadname and did not use his preferred pronouns. The article mixed in non-gender specific pronouns and the name ‘V,’ depending on an individual's relationship to Alex that was not his parents.
News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to the President of the Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa’s Jennifer Shields, about RNZ’s coverage and how this may impact trans rangatahi in the country.
The coverage of this story has also raised the question of what responsible coverage should look like, for a story like this.
According to RNZ’s Rainbow Communities Reporting and Content Guidelines, as Alex could not communicate his wishes, RNZ opted to cover the story the way they did through his parents.
Joel also spoke to the Academic Advisor to Journalism at AUT, Greg Treadwell, about the coverage of this story, and if he believes the coverage is adequate.
LGBTQIA+ organisations to contact for support and resources:
Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa
InsideOUT Kōaro
RainbowYOUTH
Gender Minorities Aotearoa
NZ Parents and Guardians of Transgender and Gender Diverse Children
Be There
OUTLine Aotearoa: 0800 688 5463 (6pm-9pm) for specialist, 24/7, confidential, mental health support, that also provides specialist counselling for LGBTQIA+ individuals and whānau.
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