Radical Visions, Structural Constraints

Abstract

Based on a qualitative study of two feminist organizations located in Ontario, Canada, this article considers the tensions that state-funded organizations must negotiate in their efforts to engage in anti-oppressive (AO) practice. The rise of neoliberalism and neoconservatism in Canada has produced a political climate that threatens feminist organizations’ social justice mandates. This climate undermines feminist organizations’ efforts to advocate for their communities, to create inclusive organizations, and to provide compassionate service informed by AO principles. However, to argue that feminist service organizations are depoliticized through their relationship with state funding agencies simplifies the complexity of state-social movement relations. This article illustrates the contradictory influence state funding has on AO practice in feminist organizations and examines the ways organizations navigate challenges presented by their political climate. Despite the structural constraints facing AO practice in feminist organizations, I argue that AO frameworks can provide organizations with a renewed focus on their social justice mandates.