LGBTQI Digital Media Activism and Counter-Hate Speech in Italy

Sara Gabai has worked in Asia and Central Asia with European Union-funded programs, UN agencies, academic institutions, the private sector, NGOs, civil society organizations and local communities, on communication for development initiatives. Her passion and expertise range from human rights to digital media activism and freedom of expression, media literacy education, gender and women’s economic empowerment, environmental and sustainability issues. Sara earned her Ph.D. in Human Rights and Peace Studies (2021) from the Institute of Human Rights and Peace, Mahidol University, Thailand, an MSc in Gender, Media and Culture from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), and a BA in Communications and a Minor in English Literature from John Cabot University, Italy.

"An inspiring book and a needed roadmap for LGBTQI activists in Italy to become more aware of each other's efforts, strengthen networks, and spearhead joint initiatives for the protection and promotion of human and civil rights."- Lorenza Parisi, Associate Professor in Sociology of Culture and Communication, Link Campus University, Rome, Italy "This book offers powerful insights into how LGBTQI human rights in Italy are directly impacted by digital media and how the latter can be leveraged for positive change."- Antonio López, Associate Professor of Communications and Media Studies, John Cabot University, Rome, Italy

• Preface, 1 Setting the Scene and Getting the Story Straight, 2 The Anti-gender Countermovement and the Backlash Against Equality 3 Subversive Media Activism and the Rise of the Gay and Lesbian Liberation Movement, 4 Organizational Communication Practices of Italian LGBTQI Activists, 5 Re-envisioning Human Rights Through Rhetorical Activism, 6 Effects of Legislation on Attitudes Towards LGBTQI People, 7 Insights and Avenues for Future Research