Looking at the Numbers

During this election season, journalists and pundits frequently cite polls to gauge the views of Americans from coast to coast. While polling is a necessary tool to understand public opinion, the media must scrutinize and contextualize poll results that might be used to make sweeping generalizations.   

When it comes to the way that media discuss attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, it is especially important that the numbers undergo close scrutiny given the number of misconceptions that are out there about our community.

Just yesterday, John Cloud's column in Time Magazine, "Prosecuting the Gay Teen Murder," used polls to make broad claims about the experiences of LGBT youth without appropriate scrutiny and context. Cloud failed to really look at the numbers when he used polls to substantiate his argument that--in spite of last week's horrific killing of openly gay middle school student Lawrence King--most LGBT youth feel accepted and safe in America's schools. Using a 2005 report from GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, Cloud noted that "fully 57 % of gay transgender students now say they are comfortable raising gay and transgender issues in class." What Cloud neglected to mention was that an extremely substantial number (43%) of gay and transgender youth remain uneasy about being open with their peers and teachers.

Additionally, Cloud reported that "only" 18 percent of LGBT students reported being physically assaulted in school because of their sexual orientation. Again, Cloud glossed over the disturbing larger picture: that a significant number (18%) of LGBT youth have endured violent attacks in their schools. It's unfortunate that Cloud did not explore all the angles of this polling data to note the reality that many LGBT youth still feel unsafe and unwelcome in schools across this country.

While LGBT people of all ages are making tremendous strides towards equality and acceptance, it's vital that media--especially in this election year--carefully look at polling data to highlight the work that still needs to be done before all Americans can feel equal and secure.

Voice your opinion about John Cloud's column: letters@time.com

Cindi Creager is the Director of National News