EAT GAY INC.

QUOTE: It’s Time To “Occupy” The HRC, GLAAD And Other Huge LGBT Non-Profits

In the LGBT community, there is a whole lot of listening that institutions would do well to engage in. Longtime activist David Mixner last week suggested that the Washington-based Human Rights Campaign (HRC) hold a series of town hall meetings nationwide as it undergoes its search process to replace its president, Joe Solmonese, who leaves early next year. Top executives at multi-million dollar non-profits are not chosen by plebiscite nor is there likely time for the group to organize ground-level input that would meaningfully influence its choice.

But tossing out logistical or process objections to Mixner’s idea should not mask its essential truth –– that HRC and other leading LGBT and AIDS advocacy groups serving our community devote far too little attention to activating but also listening to the grassroots. The occasional marquee activist like Dan Choi can sustain interest and media attention, but most demands for accountability go unheeded. Many institutions have become skilled at soliciting participation in events that match their agenda, but opening up the playbook for popular comment is not often in the cards.

– Paul Schindler of Gay City News discussing what the LGBT community should learn from the Occupy Wall Street protests.

Image via uvw916a

Don't forget to share:

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated