From Criminalization to Marriage Equality: Explaining Variance in LGBT Rights across Latin America

• In Event: LGBT Rights in Latin America

Abstract

In a surprising turn of events, a “rainbow revolution” has blossomed in Latin America. In spite of the region’s long history of deep-rooted patriarchy, machismo, homophobia, and political and social marginalization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transsexual (LGBT) people, Latin America is currently home to quarter of the countries with full marriage equality laws. Over the last two decades, despite a well-organized conservative opposition and low levels of popular support, LGBT people in some Latin American countries have made major advances. These developments, though, have been uneven across the region, from criminalization of homosexual acts in some countries to full legal equality (including same sex marriage and adoption) in others. This paper investigates the significant variation across the region and presents a new approach that melds social movement insights with institutional design approaches. Using illustrative case studies our approach reveals fissures, limits, and complexity strategies used to advance LGBT rights even when popular opinion remains strongly opposed

Author

• Bruce M Wilson, University of Central Florida