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The Power of Philanthropy Sarah McKenna Barry looks at how corporate philanthropy has played a central role in establishing Ireland as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights. In recent history, Ireland has seen some phenomenal social changes, particularly with regards to LGBTQ+ rights. Within the space of 22 years, the country decriminalised same-sex activity, outlawed discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, introduced civil partnership, legalised same-sex marriage and introduced the Gender Recognition Act of 2015. These changes would not have come about without the vital work of LGBTQ+ organisations and the donors that fund them. Corporate philanthropy helped lay the foundation for marriage equality. Between 2004 and 2013, Atlantic Philanthropies invested over $63 million into four LGBTQ+ organisations: the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN), Marriage Equality, Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) and LGBT Diversity. The multi-year investment enabled these organisations to carry out essential work in their sector, which led to impactful changes for the LGBTQ+ community. With the support of their donors, the grantees were successful in passing the 2010 Civil Partnership Act and establishing the Gender Recognition Advisory Group. Moreover, Atlantic Philanthropies allowed these groups to lobby for improved public policy surrounding LGBTQ+ issues in a number of areas, including education and health.
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