Homosexual organization networking strategies and abilities in a participatory democracy: A case study of butterfly brigade's advocacy campaign on STI/RTI HIV/AIDS prevention in Aklan province

Abstract

This is a study about Butterfly Brigade, a homosexual organization in Aklan Province. It explains how Butterfly Brigade interacts with the local government within the venues and spaces provided for it. It describes how Butterfly Brigade forms linkages and networks of support with local government units and other organizations in formulating strategies and in mobilizing for their goal under various cooperative frameworks. The mode of data collection was through personal interviews and also includes the information from written materials and organizational files of the Butterfly Brigade. The study was conducted in Boracay Island, Municipality of Malay where Butterfly Brigade has a considerable number of activities related to its AIDS Awareness program. Butterfly Brigade interacts with the local government by being a member of the Provincial AIDS Council (PAC). The Local Government of Aklan provides Butterfly Brigade a legitimate role in policy-making through PAC. Butterfly Brigade creates a network of linkages with the Provincial Government of Aklan, UNFPA, DKT-Philippines, school administrations, and other civic organizations by conducting information dissemination activities under various AIDS and STD related campaigns. Conservative institutions like the Catholic Church have opposed Butterfly Brigade activity.