More information
Description
The project will empower trans and non-binary people and other gender-diverse individuals in Estonian society through the creation of an informative web platform, education of media staff, and events and media content aimed at the trans community. The project is carried out by the Estonian Trans Alliance (hereinafter Alliance), in cooperation with the Estonian LGBT Association, MTÜ Oma Tuba, and the National Queer Association of Iceland.
Summary of project results
The aim of the project was to enhance the influence and capacity of the trans community in Estonian society through support events and media content targeted at the trans community, as well as to create an informative web platform to assist media professionals in covering trans-related topics. This, in turn, would increase awareness of trans issues among both content creators themselves and the broader public.
As part of the project, a web platform was developed to help media professionals improve their coverage of topics related to gender minorities. The platform includes informational materials and a style guide that provide an overview of appropriate language, common mistakes, and recommendations on how to apply these guidelines in their work.
The developed style guide contributes to increasing the competence of media professionals in covering trans-related topics while helping to reduce prejudices and negative stereotypes about the trans community in Estonian society.
During the project period, 12 community events were organized, and 12 episodes of the podcast Lilla agenda were produced. A total of 293 people attended the community events. All support group meetings were near full capacity (maximum 25 participants), demonstrating the importance of Estonian Trans Alliance-organized events within the trans+ community. Many attendees participated in the community events on a monthly basis.
Estonian Trans Alliance’s expertise in communication and media has significantly improved, and new collaborations have been established with partners in Estonia and Iceland, as well as with media organizations. During the project period, ETÜ’s activities were featured in the media 17 times, including at least once in major Estonian mainstream media outlets such as ERR, Postimees, Õhtuleht, and TV3. Considering the small size of the community and the previously minimal media coverage, this is a significant achievement.
The web platform developed as a result of the project serves as a valuable tool that media organizations and other organizations working with trans people can use in their daily operations for years to come. The platform also has the potential for further development to include essential information for other professionals working with trans individuals, such as medical workers, public officials, employers, and more.
Throughout the project, a network of contacts has been established with both media professionals and partner organizations. This network plays a key role in promoting the adoption of the style guide in advocacy work and media coverage.
Additionally, a survey on the situation of trans people conducted during the project provides important insights that will guide the future activities and projects of the Estonian Trans Alliance (ETÜ).
One of the most significant developments resulting from the project is the shift in discourse surrounding trans-related topics in the media. Before the project, the dominant language used in media coverage often failed to respect gender minorities. While such language can still be found in some reporting, a clear change is underway. Many journalists and representatives of organizations engaged during the project have adjusted the terminology they use in their work to be more inclusive and respectful.
Additionally, through media appearances facilitated by the project, discussions on trans rights and gender recognition were featured for the first time in Estonian mainstream media, including ERR, TV3’s program Laser, and Postimees. This marks a major breakthrough in a field that has seen little progress for over 20 years. Moving from a near-complete absence of discussion to recognition in mainstream media represents a significant step forward in raising public awareness and fostering a more inclusive societal dialogue.
Summary of bilateral results
Valuable insights were gained from the Icelandic partners regarding the progress of trans rights in Iceland and the strategies that contributed to these advancements. Additionally, guidance was received on the creation of a media guide, as the Icelandic partners had previously developed a similar resource. Their guide also served as inspiration for certain chapters in the style guide.Furthermore, the collaboration with Samtökin 78 provided numerous valuable ideas for the development of the web platform, some of which were incorporated into the final version of the website. Should an opportunity for future collaboration with the Icelandic partners arise, it would be welcomed.