The Importance of Allies
While many of the organizations I spoke with were quick to join our coalition, a few were hesitant to endorse a political movement. Many had never endorsed anything in the past. But I continued to work with the Executive Directors of these organizations to show them how valuable their endorsements would be.
Often I would get a response along the lines of, “I am personally committed to the Referendum 71 Campaign, and although this might be new for my organization, I really want to see us step up.”
Flickr:mommypeace
Eventually many of them found a way to help out and lent their nonprofits’ name to our list of endorsers . For those who did not or could not, I know the process of consider was still important and valuable to their organizations.
One key endorser of our efforts was a child-serving agency, and their Executive Director relayed a conversation to me that she had after a board member asked, “What do gay rights have to do with our mission?” She reminded them that Referendum 71 was about strengthening all families and that they had both LGBT staff and clients, so it was important to acknowledge their rights. Therefore, LGBT equality was directly related to their work helping children. The board agreed and they were able to endorse the campaign.
I am so appreciative of the leadership of the allied groups who signed on, supported, endorsed, and gave resources to the Approve Referendum 71 campaign. Without a doubt, you helped us win. And when an ally comes to the Pride Foundation asking for our endorsement, I look forward to our conversations that help us establish a clearer link between all of our movements for fairness and equality.
Loading ...