PROJECT 1 - FIRST DRAFT
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Drexel University *
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Feb 20, 2024
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PROJECT 1: FIRST DRAFT
1.
Describe the background information of your topic
TITLE: LGBTQ+ Community in the U.S.
In recent times, the United States has witnessed a significant shift in the social acknowledgement of LGBTQ+ individuals, with more Americans embracing diverse gender and sexual identities. Recent polls show that more Americans are identifying as LGBTQ+, with number increasing to 7.2% in 2022. At the same time, the ACLU has found that there’s been a big jump in laws proposed against LGBTQ+ rights in state government across the U.S., with over
510 bills in 2023, which is almost three times more than the previous year. Moreover, a detailed study by the Center for American Progress and NORC at the University of Chicago in 2022 surveyed over 1,800 LGBTQI+ and 1,542 non-LGBTQI+ adults and discovered that those who are LGBTQI+ often face more discrimination in many areas like healthcare, jobs, housing, and in public. In response to these developments, The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), an LGBTQ+ rights advocacy group, is diligently working at the forefront of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, actively monitoring, addressing, and raising awareness about the impact of recent legislative challenges, and striving to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
(https://www.americanprogress.org/article/discrimination-and-barriers-to-well-being-the-state-of-the-
lgbtqi-community-in-2022/)
(
https://news.gallup.com/poll/470708/lgbt-identification-steady.aspx
)
(
https://www.cnn.com/politics/anti-lgbtq-plus-state-bill-rights-dg/index.html#:~:text=At%20least
%20510%20anti%2DLGBTQ,such%20bills%20introduced%20in%202022
.)
2.
Describe in details of your campaign: TITLE: INTRODUCTION TO HRC
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is a prominent U.S. organization advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. Founded in 1980
by Steve Endean, it started as a political action committee (PAC)
named the Human Rights Campaign Fund (HRCF). Initially, the organization focused on endorsing political candidates who supported ending discrimination against homosexuals in healthcare and employment.
Over the years, HRC has significantly expanded its scope and activities. In 1995, it dropped "Fund" from its name, becoming the Human Rights Campaign. This period also saw a major reorganization, with new programs being added, such as the Workplace Project and the Family Project. HRC's functions broadened
to include public education on LGBT issues alongside its political advocacy and lobbying efforts.
One of HRC's most notable events was the "Equality Rocks" concert in 2000 at Washington, D.C.'s
RFK Stadium. This event was a fundraiser aimed at ending hate crimes, honoring victims, and their families, and featured various celebrities and performers
. HRC has also been active in advocating for legal changes, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage, the repeal of the United States bans on HIV-positive people's entry, and supporting anti-discrimination and hate crime laws.
The organization has a significant influence and presence in various events and movements related to LGBTQ+ rights. For instance, HRC played a role in the legalization of same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia and co-hosted a forum for 2008 Democratic presidential candidates focused specifically on LGBT issues. Their lobbying efforts have also been directed towards important legislative changes like the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which expanded federal hate-
crime law.
HRC's work isn't limited to advocacy and policy change. It provides resources on issues like coming out, transgender issues, LGBT-related healthcare, and workplace issues. The HRC Foundation's Healthcare Equality Index rates hospitals on various aspects related to LGBT patient and employee policies.
As of 2020, HRC's annual budget was approximately $44.6 million, with expenses close to that amount. Their main fundraising event is an annual national dinner, which has featured various high-profile speakers over the years, including U.S. Presidents and other notable figures.
In terms of its reach, HRC represents a force of over 3 million members and supporters, each contributing
in different ways, from activism and volunteering to donations.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Human-Rights-Campaign
3.
An analysis in terms of rhetorical situation
TITLE: AN ANALYSIS OF HRC
a.
Communicator: The Human Rights Campaign itself is the communicator. As an organization, it functions as the voice advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. It brings together the collective voices of its members, leaders, and supporters, and uses this united front to communicate its messages.
b.
Audience: The primary audience of HRC's messages includes LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. However, its broader audience extends to policymakers, the general public, and even opponents of LGBTQ+ rights. The goal is to reach a diverse audience to promote understanding, acceptance, and legal change.
c.
Message and Purpose: The message of the HRC revolves around equality, anti-discrimination, and support for LGBTQ+ rights. This includes advocating for policy changes, raising awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community, and promoting inclusivity.The purpose is multi-
faceted: to educate the public, influence policymakers, support LGBTQ+ individuals, and challenge discriminatory practices and laws.
d.
Context: The context of HRC’s messaging is situated in a social, political, and cultural environment that has historically marginalized LGBTQ+ people. The organization's rhetoric is shaped by current events, legal battles, and shifts in public opinion about LGBTQ+ rights.
e.
Analyze the rhetorical strategies the campaign is using to send its message.
Logos
Ethos
Pathos
Long history of advocacy: HRC was founded in 1980. Over the decades, it has been actively involved in advocating
for the civil rights of LGBTQ+
individuals. This long-standing
commitment contributes to its credibility.
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is known for using data, research, and information
in its communications, particularly in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. One of their notable publications is the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). The HEI is an annual survey that evaluates healthcare facilities' policies and practices related to the -
Emotional storytelling is a key strategy. HRC shares personal stories of LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting their struggles and triumphs.
This humanizes the issues and creates an emotional connection with the audience. Events like the
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equity and inclusion of LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and employees
.
"Equality Rocks" concert, which honored
hate crime victims, also play into this strategy by eliciting empathy and solidarity.
-
One specific and impactful story shared by HRC is the story of Matthew Shepard. Matthew was a young gay man who, in 1998, was brutally attacked and left to die in a hate crime in Laramie, Wyoming. His story garnered national attention and became a pivotal moment in the fight against homophobia and hate crimes.
-
The Matthew Shepard case was a catalyst for change and led to significant legislative action. In 2009, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act was passed, expanding the federal hate crime law to include crimes motivated by a victim's
actual or perceived gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
Legislative change: HRC has a
track record of influencing legislative changes. For example, it played a pivotal role in the legal battles for marriage equality in the United
States, which culminated in the
landmark Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015. HRC's involvement in
advocating for the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) establishes its ethos through a variety of specific actions and initiatives that reflect its commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy and rights.
+ Advocacy for policy changes: HRC has been at the forefront of significant policy changes. For instance, they played a pivotal role in the journey to nationwide marriage
equality in the United States, HRC also uses emotive language and slogans like "Love conquers hate" and "Fighting for our people" to resonate emotionally with their audience. Such language not only appeals to the emotions but also fosters a sense of unity
and collective action against discrimination and inequality.
signed into law in 2009, is another example of its effective legislative advocacy.
culminating in the historic Supreme Court ruling in June 2015. This achievement is a testament to their persistent advocacy efforts.
+ Campaign against “Don’t ask, Don’t tell”: HRC’s involvement in the repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which prohibited openly gay, lesbian, and bisexual people from serving in the military, is another example of their effective advocacy. The repeal of this policy in 2010 marked a significant victory for LGBTQ+ rights, demonstrating HRC's commitment to combating discrimination.
Corporate quality index: HRC publishes the Corporate Equality Index, a benchmarking tool for businesses to gauge their treatment of LGBTQ+ employees. This index is widely recognized and used by
companies across the U.S., further enhancing HRC's influence and credibility.
HRC often collaborates with other organizations and forms coalitions to broaden its impact, showing its ability to work inclusively and effectively with diverse groups:
+ ACLU(American Civil Liberties Union): HRC has often worked with the ACLU on various civil rights issues, particularly those involving LGBTQ+ rights and legal challenges.
+ NCTE(National Center for Transgender Equality): Collaborating on issues specifically related to
transgender rights and advocacy.
4.
Evaluate this campaign.
TITLE: EVALUATE THE CAMPAIGN
-
Primary research: Distribute survey for 20 students at Drexel University
-
Questions: + How would you rate your understanding of LGBTQ+ rights and issues? (on scale of 10)
+ Do you know Human Rights Campaign? (Yes/No/ Have heard but not interested in)
+What type of events or activities would you like to see organized on campus related to LGBTQ+ advocacy?
+ Give them a brief of Human Rights Campaign and ask them: In your opinion, how effective is the HRC in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights? (on scale of 10)
Survey done: Understanding of LGBTQ+ Rights and Issues (Scale of 1-
10):
1-3: 2 students
4-6: 5 students
7-8: 8 students
9-10: 5 students
Awareness of Human Rights Campaign (HRC):
Yes: 10 students
No: 3 students
Have heard but not interested: 7 students
Preferred Events and Activities (Qualitative Data):
Educational workshops: 6 students
Guest speakers: 5 students
Pride parades/marches: 4 students
Support groups: 3 students
Film screenings: 2 students
Effectiveness of the Human Rights Campaign (Scale of 1-10):
1-3: 1 student
4-6: 4 students
7-8: 8 students
9-10: 7 students
5.
Conclusion: TITLE: CONCLUSION
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