Preparing for 2025: Lessons from Global LGBTQIA+ Advocacy Movements
Dear nonprofits, professionals, and allies,
The history of global LGBTQIA+ advocacy is rich with stories of resilience, creativity, and determination. From challenging deeply entrenched cultural norms to navigating shifting political climates, activists worldwide have spearheaded transformative change. Today, as the United States faces a new presidential administration likely to advance anti-LGBTQIA+ policies, there is much we can learn from global movements. Let us collectively learn from them, support each other, and weather this storm. This blog entry explores key lessons from these advocacy efforts, offering hope, wisdom, and actionable strategies for continuing the fight for equity.
1. Resilience in the Face of Legal and Cultural Barriers
Global LGBTQIA+ movements have demonstrated extraordinary resilience in the face of oppressive legal systems and cultural resistance. For example, the fight against Section 377 in India—a colonial-era law criminalizing homosexuality—culminated in a landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling that decriminalized same-sex relationships. The efforts of the Naz Foundation and countless activists showcase how sustained advocacy, even in conservative societies, can yield significant progress.
Similarly, Taiwan’s journey to becoming the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019 is a testament to the power of grassroots organizing and political advocacy. Organizations like Marriage Equality Taiwan played a crucial role in this victory, demonstrating the importance of persistence and coalition-building.
In South Africa, LGBTQIA+ activists confronted the legacies of apartheid to enshrine LGBTQIA+ rights in the country’s constitution—the first in the world to explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Triangle Project continues to advocate for Queer liberation through an intersectional lens, addressing issues like racism and economic inequality alongside LGBTQIA+ rights.
“When you’re going through hell, keep going.” Rely on your own inner strength, and when that fails (which it will, and that’s OK), turn to your community.
2. Leveraging Intersectionality to Strengthen Movements
Intersectionality has been a cornerstone of many successful LGBTQIA+ advocacy efforts. Recognizing the interconnected nature of social injustices—such as racism, sexism, and homophobia—has allowed movements to build broader coalitions and address systemic oppression more effectively.
For instance, the work of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) highlights how grassroots movements worldwide have embraced intersectionality to advocate for marginalized communities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, including transgender individuals and people of color.
In Europe, ILGA-Europe has been instrumental in advancing LGBTQIA+ rights by engaging with regional institutions and fostering alliances across diverse movements. These efforts underscore the importance of inclusivity and solidarity in achieving meaningful change.
3. Building Resilient Advocacy Networks
Another critical lesson from global movements is the importance of building robust advocacy networks. Organizations like Rainbow Railroad exemplify how international solidarity can save lives, providing safe passage for LGBTQIA+ individuals facing persecution. Such networks also amplify the voices of marginalized communities, ensuring their stories and struggles are heard on a global stage.
The OutRight Action International has similarly demonstrated the power of coordinated advocacy by working with United Nations agencies and local partners to document human rights violations and push for policy changes. These efforts show that collaboration and resource-sharing can amplify impact and sustain momentum.
4. Navigating Political Challenges in the U.S.
The incoming U.S. presidential administration poses significant challenges to LGBTQIA+ equity, as policies and rhetoric are expected to embolden resistance and roll back rights. However, history teaches us that advocacy thrives in adversity. During the Trump administration, for instance, grassroots organizations and legal advocates mobilized to protect LGBTQIA+ rights, setting a precedent for resilience.
To navigate this climate, it’s crucial to leverage resources like GLAAD’s Advocacy Reports and the Movement Advancement Project’s Equality Maps to stay informed and strategize effectively. Leaders must reaffirm their commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning their initiatives with broader movements for social justice.
5. Strength in Visibility and Storytelling
Global movements have highlighted the power of visibility in driving social change. The It Gets Better Project is a prime example, showcasing stories from LGBTQIA+ individuals worldwide to inspire and empower others. Storytelling humanizes issues and fosters empathy, breaking down stereotypes and prejudices.
In Kenya, organizations like the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission use personal testimonies and media campaigns to challenge societal norms and promote understanding. Visibility can be a powerful tool for advocacy, particularly in environments where misinformation and stigma are pervasive.
6. Education as a Catalyst for Change
Education remains a fundamental pillar of LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Movements in countries like Argentina, which introduced comprehensive sexuality education through the Ley de Educación Sexual Integral, demonstrate how inclusive education can foster greater understanding and acceptance.
In the U.S., organizations like GLSEN advocate for safe and inclusive school environments, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping societal attitudes. By prioritizing educational initiatives, advocates can create a foundation for long-term cultural change.
7. Economic Empowerment
Economic empowerment is another critical lesson from global advocacy movements. In regions where LGBTQIA+ individuals face economic exclusion, initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and financial independence have been transformative.
The Pride Foundation in the Pacific Northwest supports scholarships and grants for LGBTQIA+ individuals, fostering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Similarly, the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice funds grassroots organizations globally, emphasizing the role of economic empowerment in advancing equity.
In other words: straight-led funding sources need to step up and support our community, with little to no strings attached.
8. Advocacy through Art and Culture
Art and culture have been powerful mediums for LGBTQIA+ advocacy. In Uganda, the Kuchu Times Media Group uses documentaries and media to highlight the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals, challenging societal narratives and fostering acceptance.
In Brazil, the vibrant LGBTQIA+ pride parades—like São Paulo’s, one of the largest in the world—serve as both celebration and protest, using cultural expression to assert visibility and demand rights. These examples illustrate how art and culture can galvanize support and amplify advocacy efforts.
9. Digital Advocacy in the Modern Era
Digital platforms have revolutionized LGBTQIA+ advocacy, enabling movements to reach broader audiences and mobilize support rapidly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations like Human Rights Campaign leveraged virtual events and campaigns to sustain momentum and engage supporters.
The use of hashtags like #LoveWins during the U.S. marriage equality campaign exemplifies the power of social media in driving awareness and fostering community. Digital tools provide new opportunities for advocacy, particularly among younger generations.
10. Sustaining Momentum Through Allyship
Finally, global movements underscore the importance of allyship in sustaining momentum. Allies play a crucial role in amplifying LGBTQIA+ voices and advocating for systemic change. Initiatives like the Stonewall Diversity Champions Program in the UK encourage organizations to commit to inclusion and support LGBTQIA+ employees.
In the U.S., the work of PFLAG highlights the transformative impact of allyship, providing resources and support for families and friends of LGBTQIA+ individuals. By fostering allyship, movements can build broader coalitions and drive lasting change.
The Path Forward
The fight for LGBTQIA+ rights is far from over, but the lessons from global advocacy movements offer a roadmap for navigating resistance and advancing equity. By embracing resilience, intersectionality, and collaboration, we can build a future where inclusion and justice prevail, even in the face of adversity. Let’s take these lessons from the heart to the hand and continue the work of creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
Sincerely,
Queers
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