The NLGJA Journalists Toolkit is designed primarily to assist journalists who don’t normally cover the LGBT community.

The advice is drawn from outside media experts and our own members who are professional journalists for both mainstream media and the LGBT press. We also offer story ideas and new ways of thinking for reporters who are experienced in covering LGBT life.

“Religion & Homosexuality: Avoid Mistakes by Doing Your Homework” offers tips on how journalists can better explore the intersection of religion and homosexuality.

Here’s an excerpt:

“Don’t make assumptions about a religion, denomination or book of faith. Someone is bound to disagree with statements you may write or broadcast.

“Some reporters, for example, have written that the Bible condemns homosexuality. But a variety of experts disagree that the Bible makes such statements when taken in context. Others note that many biblical laws are ignored in modern life.

“Present the various points of view and let readers, listeners or viewers decide who’s right. Even if you’re a member of the faith you’re writing about, you may not know about alternative views. Use the many available resources — the Internet, the library, academicians, religious groups for gays and lesbians, faith leaders — to get a more complete story.

“Be aware of the presence of gays and lesbians in local churches and synagogues.”

Click here to read the complete article.