Grassroots Associations and Collective Identity: Unity in a Midwestern Inland Lake Sailing Club

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis article provides the theoretical basis for applying the concept of collective identity to the study of leisure groups. Although the concept of collective identity has been most thoroughly developed in studying social movement organizations, I argue that the concept is appropriate for examining other types of grassroots associations, including hobby groups. I explore the application through examining group unity created in a midwestern inland lake sailing club. Emerging from an analysis of interviews with members of the club were clearly articulated perceptions of elements that compose the collective identity process and an indication that the basis of collective action and unity in a leisure group is neither always obvious nor directly related to the group’s leisure activity. In this case, it was the club’s land that formed the basis of group unity instead of the sailing that the club was established to promote.