The European Gay and Lesbian Sport Federation: Advocacy work in Europe

Abstract

Despite the reported progress in anti-discrimination policy, homo-and transnegativity in sport are defiantly persistent across Europe, supported by a sporting system that is proud of its autonomy, independence, and specificity. The emerging picture is of increasing but ineffective attention being paid to this agenda. This chapter considers 40 years of LGBTQ people in Europe organising in grassroots community sports, the resulting foundation and development of The European Gay and Lesbian Sport Federation (EGLSF) and the EuroGames, and the development of EGLSF’s role from lesbian and gay through to LGBTQ sports advocacy. The discussion in this chapter summarises the activities of the federation, highlights the priorities it has identified, explores areas of advocacy work being undertaken in relation to these priorities, and pinpoints some specific examples of targeted action. The chapter also identifies internal and external cultural and structural constraints to establishing LGBTQ advocacy. The EGLSF is a strong federation with a diverse membership, an ever-increasing advocacy role, and a growing profile. Notwithstanding the constraints explored, the role that the federation plays in bringing visibility to LGBTQ issues and representing the interests of LGBTQ people in sport has never been more needed.