GLAAD today responded to Bruce Jenner's interview on a Diane Sawyer special edition of ABC's 20/20. GLAAD also released a tip sheet for journalists reporting about Jenner and transgender issues. That tip sheet is available here.
"Today, millions of people learned that someone they know is transgender," said GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. "By sharing this story, Bruce Jenner has shined a light on what it means to be transgender and live authentically in the face of unimaginable public scrutiny. Though Jenner's journey is one that is deeply personal, it is also one that will impact and inspire countless people around the world."
"Every transgender person's journey is unique, and by choosing to share this story, Bruce Jenner adds another layer to America's understanding of what it means to be transgender," said Nick Adams, GLAAD's Director of Programs, Transgender Media. "We hope that after hearing Jenner's story, people will want to learn more about the issues and challenges facing their transgender friends, co-workers, and family members. Stories like these will help create a world in which everyone can express their gender identity without fear of discrimination and violence."
Learn more about how to be an ally to the transgender community here.
Editor's note: At this time, Bruce Jenner has not requested that a new name or pronoun be used, therefore we are respecting his wishes and will continue to refer to Jenner by his current name and with male pronouns. Some transgender people prefer to change their name and/or pronoun quickly. Other transgender people may take more time to decide what name and/or pronoun feels right to them. To be respectful, use the name and/or pronoun requested by the individual.