Speaker's Corner

Our 2022 National Convention in Chicago will be here before we know it and we are so excited that you’ll be joining us as a speaker.

If you’ve been scheduled to speak, you will receive an email confirmation with details about the time and speaking location. When the Convention begins, please make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled session and check in at the Convention Registration Desk.

How should I register for the Convention?

Speaker registration will be available soon. Convention Speakers will receive a complimentary One-Day Only registration for the day of their speaking session. You will receive an email confirmation for the day of your registration. If you would like to attend additional convention days, we offer a discounted Speaker Registration rate for $295. Please fill out the registration form to take advantage of the discount. Please let us know if you plan to attend just your session, one-day only, or the full convention.

Do I need to be a member to speak at the Convention?

Membership is not required to speak at the Convention, but you should consider becoming a member! Membership dues help to support our annual convention, strengthen the viability and visibility of the association, and signal your commitment to fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ communities and issues. Even if you do not identify as LGBTQ, allies are always welcome! Join NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists Today!

Can I present remotely?

We expect to make a limited part of the convention available to a virtual audience, but by agreeing to participate as a breakout or plenary session speaker, you are also agreeing to present in-person at The Drake in Chicago on the assigned day and time. Speakers on your panel must also be available to present the session in-person.

What do I need to submit to the Convention organizers?

All speakers must submit materials by June 1. Please include:

• Bio (Up to 200 words)
• Headshot (Print Quality, minimum 2″ x “3, 300 dpi)
• Professional Title
• Company / Organization
• Twitter / Other Social Media Handle or Website

To register as a speaker, please email daniel@nlgja.org by June 1.

Can I arrange a sponsor for my panel?

Some sessions at the the 2022 National Convention may be sponsored, but these sponsorships will be arranged by the NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists staff. If your panel is sponsored, Development & Marketing Director Dillon Lewis will be in contact with the panel moderator with any specific instructions.

Please note: Any and all panel, workshop and plenary sponsorships must be arranged in advance by NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists’ Development & Marketing Director. A few words of recognition of an employer and/or project is permissible, but additional recognitions or lengthy remarks about a company or organization may interfere with existing sponsorship commitments and hamper the association’s fundraising efforts. For more information please contact Development & Marketing Director Dillon Lewis at dillon@nlgja.org.

I need audio/visual equipment for my presentation. Will it be available?

Audio and Visual equipment (A/V), including a projector, computer, and adapter, may not be available in the room in which you are assigned to present. If A/V is integral to the success and presentation of your session, please request to have an A/V-equipped room as soon as possible. We will notify you whether you will be in a room with A/V so you can plan accordingly.

Will wi-fi be available for my presentation?

Wi-fi connections are available throughout the host hotel. Access to an internet connection is based on usage so access cannot be guaranteed at all times. Please make a backup plan should you plan to use an internet during your presentation.

• Please make sure to download all presentation materials prior to your session. NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists cannot guarantee internet access for any presentation.

If you do require internet for your presentation, please contact daniel@nlgja.org with your request for dedicated access.

Where is the Convention being held? When should I make my room reservation?

The 2022 National Convention will be held at The Drake in Chicago. Discounted reservation rates are available through the NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ Journalists room block, but this block will be filled quickly so reserve your room soon!

Can I include printed materials in my presentation?

We encourage you to go green at the 2022 National Convention. The association will not print copies of handouts or materials for your breakouts or panels. We can make downloadable content available from the online convention program. Please provide materials by September 1, 2022.

If you would like to provide printed materials, expect between 20-40 attendees in each breakout session and up to 250 attendees in each plenary. 

Will parking be validated during the Convention?

The association does not validate parking at The Drake. Overnight valet parking is $75 with 24 hour vehicle access available on Friday and Saturday. Valet parking services are offered Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. Please note that access to your vehicle is unavailable between the hours of 11 p.m. through 7 a.m. Sunday through Thursday only.