Structural Dependency on Movement Donors: Gay Marriage and Trans Rights in New York State

• In Event: 1480 - Section on Sociology of Sexualities Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 03. Sexuality, Family, and Marriage

Abstract

In 2015, New York State’s largest statewide social movement organization focused on gay rights advocacy announced it was closing. Four years earlier, they had led an historical, successful legislative campaign for same-sex marriage. Yet the organization had repeatedly failed to prioritize its public commitment to transgender rights. In-depth interviews find the organization was structurally dependent on affluent supporters with class interests and personal concerns that differed from both public opinion and the inclinations of organizational leaders. This paper argues the interests of donors constrain and shape the decision-making, campaign priorities, success and persistence of social movement organizations.

Author

• Michelle Esther O'Brien, New York University