On Thursday we mentioned the Dallas Morning News’ policy prohibiting same-sex wedding announcements. The DMN will publish same-sex marriages, but only in a section called “Commitments” and not in the section called “Weddings.” As one commenter put it, “Requiring that it be announced as a ‘commitment’ makes it sound like a psychiatric situation.” Instant Tea reader Elizabeth Parker says she was shocked to learn of this policy, and ever since then she’s been contacting people at The DMN trying to get an explanation. Here’s the response Parker says she received from DMN editor Bob Mong:
Dear Ms. Parker,
Thanks for writing.
I am very proud of our news coverage of gay and lesbian issues. I would put it up against any in the country. Just recently we published prominent stories on GuideSunday and in our Metro sections; one about gay/straight relationships at a Denton bistro, the other about a gay teacher helping gay high schoolers circumvent the public schools. Countless other subjects have been covered routinely by our writers, photographers and columnists in a completely unfettered manner over the years. I would be the first to say we’ve not always been as complete as we could have been, but for much of the post-1990 era of the paper, the coverage has matured and become more focused on this topic. For most readers of the paper, that should be clear – don’t you think.
The issue you refer to is not a news policy but rather an advertising policy. All “Celebration” topics – marriages, commitments, engagements, anniversaries – are handled through the advertising department. Several years ago the paper began publishing gay/lesbian unions under this advertising banner. While only a small number of people buy these ads, they are available. You correctly characterize the policy. I have indeed received some criticism lately from the national GLAAD organization about this policy, and while it is not a news issue, I have forwarded their concerns to the business folks at the paper, just as I have forwarded your letter. As with any policy, it is always subject to review.
I appreciate your taking the time to contact me.
Sincerely,
Bob Mong, editor
What a giant step forward for th DMN!
If you care to share your opinion on the “heterosexual couples are allowed wedding announcements, but lgbt couples must settle for committment announcements” policy of the Dallas Morning News (DMN), here are the email addresses of the DMN editor and publisher: bmong@dallasnews.com, jmoroney@dallasnews.com
Remembering the many meetings with DMN regarding Coming Out ads back in the late 80s, only money speaks with DMN….not integrity, but thought DMN had risen above that. . Really, Bob, thanks,but DMN needs to be a leader as the Dallas GLBT community has been nationally….don’t be less,please….it’s Dallas!
Way to pass the buck, Bob.
I love the “look what we’ve done for you” and the finger pointing HAHA! Well, while it is true that in Texas we cannot be married and only be “committed”, there are still those who go to more advanced states in the country to have a big ol’ gay wedding and those people who love each other and take that step deserve to be recognized along with their straight counterparts in local publications…especially those that THEY help pay for!