Tensions and future directions for the women and sport movement

Abstract

This chapter contributes to literature on a social movement for women and sport; it is informed by social movement literature and postcolonial feminism. The origins, development and major outcomes of the movement are briefly outlined, including how predominantly Western-based women-and-sport social movement organizations have increasingly institutionalized their activism in order to change sport for women. These actions have often resulted in tension both within the movement and outwardly in relation to dominant societal institutions that control sport. Tensions between women with very different outlooks on how best to achieve progress for women and sport are examined by looking at the interrelationship of feminist ideology, politics and identity. The chapter ends by identifying future directions and challenges for the movement, including future activists, the diversification of activism, and research and increasing awareness.