At 23, Justin Moran has served as a fashion editor for Bullet , a trend columnist for Paper , a contributing writer for Nylon , content director for Nicopanda, and until recently, the digital managing editor of OUT.com. Justin established a digital safe space for LGBTQ+ members who face prejudice online and in the streets. By championing emerging queer talent, he strives to break the boundaries between sexual orientation and individuality. Today, Justin is back at Paper as the digital managing editor.
What makes a 23 year old, like you, qualified to be the digital managing editor of OUT ? I don’t believe in qualifications, I believe in really hard work and strong ideas. At this point in my life, I feel connected to youth culture in a way that older, more seasoned editors do not. I’m aggressively, obsessively, keeping up with what’s new and what’s next. Digital managing editors should be responsive, curious and ultimately eager to create culture, not simply follow it. To get to this point in your life, did you have to learn any lessons the hard way? You have to create your own opportunities. I wouldn’t have had a career in NYC while I was studying at college in Chicago if I didn’t use social media to my advantage. It makes the world smaller, and ultimately decreases the barriers to entry in any creative field. I don’t think you need to be obsessed with it, but I think you need to be smart.
How did you stand out and get found?
Good answer. So, you believe neutrality is as important to journalism today as it has always been? I believe neutrality is vital for reporters writing hard news, but I don’t think it is as important in entertainment media.Based on my voice, the subjects I choose, and my career trajectory, it’s clear where my politics lie and I’m not afraid of readers knowing that going into my work. Do you believe your job gives you the power to change the perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community? Should it? While I was at OUT , I never felt my role was to change perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community in the straight world. For me, it was about providing a visible platform to queers who felt overlooked in their own community. That was much more important than concerning myself with a straight audience. So, on the power of OUT , if society suddenly came to view all genders, races, and sexual orientations as equal, would OUT still be an important title? I suppose not. OUT initially developed as a voice for a community that was being ignored. Truthfully, I think LGBTQ+ narratives shouldn’t be segmented off with their own publication. Queer ideas are mainstream ideas and should be treated accordingly.
I wasn’t really “found.” I made a name for myself through strong original work. I had a point of view that was clearly defined and unlike many others; I was incredibly career driven at an early age. Now, we want to know who you follow. Can you name your top five favorite Instagram accounts? @PaperMagazine, @CrystalZapata, @Charlie_Chops, @MatieresFecales, and @BertieBertThePom In terms of traditional media, with so many titles ceasing print production, many believe that the magazine era is coming to an end. Do you think we should be trying to save it?
I believe that print is romantic, but not realistic.
What does ensure longevity and ongoing relevancy in the world of media? Is it only sensationalism? I don’t think sensationalism has longevity, but I think creating sensational projects with tact and substance will always be relevant.
What part did social media play in giving you a start?
Social media allowed me to follow industry people I’ve always admired, and ultimately connect with them to begin working together in real life.
ART Katelyn Beebe and Sarah Ditterline
Volume 5 87
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker