Coming out: the role of journalism in social exclusion of LGBTs

This article explores the role of journalism in the social exclusion of lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people. Studying the case of North Cyprus, the last place in Europe to decriminalize same sex relationships, it investigates the relationship between journalists and LGB people by focusing on their experiences, opinions and practices and how these contribute to the social inclusion and exclusion of LGB people. Through analysis of interviews conducted with members of the LGB community and journalists, the article demonstrates the processes by which LGB people become socially excluded. The findings show that homophobia within the news media, journalists’ lack of awareness and/or understanding of the social concerns of LGB people, public pressure and lack of communication between the LGB community and journalists contribute to processes by which LGB people become socially excluded