Money, money, money. That is what drives this world round, right? Even in the nonprofit world organizations aren't really seeking a "no profit" scenario, one because it financially is not feasible, and two because everyone wants to do more, accomplish goals and create real change - yes, that requires money. The case is no different with LGBT nonprofits working to affect policy in the sports world.
The LGBT Sports Coalition was formed at the Nike LGBT Sports Summit in the summer of 2013. It comprises multiple nonprofits working with collegiate and/or professional sports teams, colleges, leagues, athletes, coaches and fans. Some of the major players include You Can Play Project, Go! Athletes, Athlete Ally, CampusPride, and OutSports. All have similar missions with varying tactics for achieving equality and inclusion in athletics.
What keeps this roundtable turning? Money. The happy face shows when we as supporters of sport realize that real organizations are dedicating pioneering work, time and effort to changing the historically discriminatory sporting world. The sad face quickly arises though when the internal dynamics of the Coalition are examined. Every single organization is fighting like underdogs in a boxing match. They all want the money. For nonprofits, the dollar bills come in the form of foundation grants, educational contracts with major leagues for diversity training and corporate partnerships based on popularity and celebrity endorsement of the nonprofit. Nike just gave $200K to the Coalition. How will it be divided? Sounds complicated, no?
Well it is. The image of placid, kind and benevolent nonprofits quickly has transformed into an MMA fighter who is seeking revenge against his most hated opponent. The LGBT Sports Coalition is basically a boxing ring full of sweat and blood. So what next? Time will tell, but many claim the strong will win and the weak fail. Does it have to be that only one organization can educate and train the sporting world on diversity guidelines? Are we as constituents of the sporting world so darn competitive that we cannot see the purpose in working together rather than apart?
There is nothing wrong with the pursuit of a mission and success, but when it comes to actually trying to change the world, it may be smart to be united. Learn from each other, share the funding and resources and listen to the voices of the leader pool. If not, someone is going to lose the boxing match real soon, and it may be everyone thats part of it.
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