Coalition-Building and Solidarity Across Difference

Coalitions across divides are among the most important tactical tools available for social movements, as they enable the sharing of networks, resources, expertise, and information, while simultaneously projecting an image of power through unity and numbers. Yet diverse alliances face tremendous challenges not limited to building a unifying collective identity and forging a common agenda across lines of inequality. Delving into these challenges in the context of social movements, this edited collection focuses on coalition-building, working across difference and inequality, intersectionality practices, and solidarity building across divides.

Seeking to advance the body of literature assessing how alliances form and sustain themselves across difference and inequality, chapters discuss coalitions both between formal organizations, such as social movement organizations, as well as coalition-building within groups and organizations. With a particular interest in studies of diversity and inclusion in social movements, authors address the process and facilitation of coalition work, alongside the subsequent analysis of obstacles, outcomes, and lessons learned.

Communicating the enduring power of diverse coalitions as they hold the potential for drawing in new audiences and building a broader movement, Gawerc and Einwohner expertly collate chapters that make powerful statements around bridging societal divides while also fostering innovation and creativity. Demonstrating that collective liberation is possible when we work across lines of difference, this volume provides a vital roadmap for this essential work. This is compelling reading for scholars of social movements, collective action, and intersectionality.

Michelle I. Gawerc is Professor of Sociology at Loyola University Maryland, USA.

Rachel L. Einwohner is Professor of Sociology at Purdue University, USA.