Social Movement Policy Success: Decriminalizing State Sodomy Laws, 1969-1998

In: Mobilization: the international quarterly review of social movement research, Band 8, Heft 3, S. 313-334

Abstract

This study provides an event history analysis of the factors contributing to a social movement's ability to influence pubic policy. More specifically, the study presents a quantitative, historical examination of the influence of national, state, & local gay & lesbian movements on the decriminalization of state sodomy laws, an important goal of the movement, from 1969 to 1998. Drawing from political opportunity models, resource mobilization theory, & theories of cultural opportunity, the study explores the importance of political conditions, social movement characteristics, & the larger cultural context on the ability of the gay & lesbian movement to achieve its goals. The analyses demonstrate that all three factors have some influence on the likelihood of sodomy law decriminalization, but most importantly, political opportunity & movement characteristics work together to bring about success. During periods of political opportunity, the size & tactics of the lesbian & gay movement influenced the likelihood of success. 2 Tables, 1 Appendix, 76 References. Adapted from the source document.