Lesbians slam media stereotype

Fri, 02/22/2008 5:00 PM  |  National

JAKARTA: Lesbians activists have criticized the media for portraying them in a negative light.

The media should use a human rights perspectives when dealing with news coverage of homosexuals, several women told a discussion here Thursday.

Ardhanary Institute director Agustine said the media often discussed lesbians merely because the group was unique and interesting for readers and viewers.

"They cover us just because they think we are phenomenal and when they do that, they portray us through a negative stereotype," she said.

She accused the media of treating lesbians as a marginalized group who deserved sympathy from others or needed to repent.

Journalist Eko Bambang said lesbian issues should be kept apart from news headlines.

"Such issues have little urgency for the society, while the media has the role of upholding democracy in the country by giving equal space to all groups, including marginalized ones," he said. --JP

Copyright © 2008 The Jakarta Post - PT Bina Media Tenggara. All Rights Reserved.