Michigan TV Station Apologizes For Instructing Reporters To Limit LGBTQ+ Event Coverage

The general manager of a television news station in western Michigan has issued an apology after staff members received a memo instructing reporters to cover fewer LGBTQ+ events during Pride Month, citing concerns over potential polarization. The Detroit Free Press obtained a copy of the memo from WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids, which asked staff to assess the newsworthiness of Pride events. The memo acknowledged that stories related to LGBTQ+ issues could be controversial and divisive in the community. Owned by Texas-based Nexstar Media, WOOD-TV stated that the memo contradicted the company’s values.

Reaffirming Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

WOOD-TV General Manager Julie Brinks emphasized the station’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in a statement on Friday. Brinks stated that WOOD-TV strives to cover and report the news in an expansive and inclusive manner consistent with these values. Nexstar Media, the owner of WOOD-TV, also expressed that the memo did not align with its principles, the way it covers news, or its respect for viewers. The company pledged to take appropriate action to address the situation and apologized for any offense caused to the LGBTQ+ community and WOOD-TV viewers.

Opposition to LGBTQ+ Events and Its Impact

Opposition to Pride events and pro-LGBTQ+ literature has gained traction among some Republicans and conservatives across the United States in both national and local politics. Instances of resistance to LGBTQ+ content have resulted in successful campaigns to withhold funding in certain states, such as the case of a library in western Michigan. News outlets have faced repercussions due to the backlash against covering Pride events, with viewers expressing their discontent. The WOOD-TV memo noted the need for balanced reporting and highlighted the pushback from unhappy viewers.

Political and Regional Dynamics

The city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, situated in Kent County, saw approximately 52% of voters support President Joe Biden, a Democrat, in the 2020 general election, while around 46% voted for then-President Donald Trump, a Republican. In neighboring Ottawa County, nearly 60% of votes were cast in favor of Trump, with Biden receiving approximately 38% of the vote. Ottawa County falls within WOOD-TV’s coverage area. In January, the conservative Christian group Ottawa Impact gained a majority on Ottawa County’s board of commissioners and made controversial decisions, including the immediate closure of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Department. The board also opted against providing funding for the county’s largest Pride festival in Holland. However, an inaugural Pride festival in Ottawa County’s Grand Haven attracted thousands of attendees last weekend.

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