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This book offers a unique insider perspective from a queer author and activist who was centrally involved in Ireland’s journey from 1993, the year when homosexuality was decriminalised, to 2015, when it became the first country in which marriage equality was enacted by popular vote. It is the first comprehensive study of the impact of LGBTQ+ youth civil society as a leading force on Irish public policy change.
Interdisciplinary in nature, it uses both activist and academic frames to reassess LGBTQ+ activism histories. It draws on personal, historical and policy analysis to provide a comprehensive account of how civil society can drive progressive change in difficult conditions.
Essential reading for understanding the significant public policy changes that have occurred in Ireland, this book provides deep insight into the dynamics of organised social change over long periods of time and offers lessons for future work in this area.
“Barron delivers a powerful chronicle of the courage and conviction of a generation of anti-homophobia and transphobia activists who opened the floodgates of goodness and grace, creating a pathway of support for future leaders – and ensuring that the gates remain open, come what may.” Mary McAleese, Former President of Ireland and Chancellor of Trinity College Dublin
“Michael Barron offers deep insight into what it means to advocate for the visibility of LGBTQ+ people at a crucial time, when authorities worldwide seem to compete over who can most effectively trample our right to exist. May this publication inspire us to keep fighting – until we are all liberated.” Kasha Jacqueline Nabagesera, Ugandan LGBTQ+ human rights defender and Martin Ennals Award Laureate
“A must-read from a key figure in Ireland’s LGBTQ+ youth movement that combines the rigour of careful academic treatment with the insight of extensive experience in the field.” Conor O’Mahony, University College Cork
“Barron is a force of nature who has been a pivotal, tireless, good-humoured voice at the forefront of deep and dramatic social change in Ireland for over three decades. Never one to be underestimated, he’s managed to pull off another unlikely coup here: making what could have been a rather dry treatise on civil society and forging change into something personal, vital and entertaining!” Rory O’Neill (AKA drag performer Panti Bliss)
1. Introduction
2. Context: LGBTQ+ Youth in the crosshairs
3. Building a Civil Society Platform
4. Community Youth Work: the BeLonG To Model
5. A New Narrative : Queer Optimism
6. Alliances and Political Power
7. Self-Organised Community Model for Policy Change
8. Defending Our Civil Society Platforms
9. Conclusion
References