This book offers a unique insider perspective from a queer author and activist who was centrally involved in Ireland’s journey from 1993, the year when homosexuality was decriminalised, to 2015, when it became the first country in which marriage equality was enacted by popular vote. It is the first comprehensive study of the impact of LGBTQ+ youth civil society as a leading force on Irish public policy change.

Interdisciplinary in nature, it uses both activist and academic frames to reassess LGBTQ+ activism histories. It draws on personal, historical and policy analysis to provide a comprehensive account of how civil society can drive progressive change in difficult conditions.