In 1995, a group of young activists founded RAW "simply because the homophobia predominant in our society - and sadly enough even amongst leftists - pisses us off."[citation needed] The activists are motivated by rage against the prejudice that gays and lesbians ought to be "cured“,[citation needed] that heterosexuality be "normal“ or "natural“. "We simply want to be able to live in relationships chosen by ourselves - without being discriminated. We want to give love to whom we want and how we like (provided our partner agrees)"[citation needed]. This position is stated in the manifesto drawn up for the group's foundation:
"Even if we call ourselves PINK antifascists, this does not meanthat only homosexuals can join us. We disapprove of any kind of verification of one's sexual orientation. We want to change the DOMINATING circumstances: We are fighting against any dividing up of human beings into homosexuals and heterosexuals, into natives and foreigners, into men and women, sick and healthy, rich and poor … and we are fighting against any resulting role appropriations and value judgements - as we are all humans, simple as that. This is damned reason enough; every individual has the right to a pleasant life in peace, according to their own individual needs. However, it is precisely this right that is denied to each and every one. In order to keep the system functioning, the division and partition of society have to be preserved and even reinforced: a division into those who kick and those who get kicked."
Previously, RAW was located at the Ernst Kirchweger Haus in Vienna. The organization is a member of the International Antifascist Network for Research and Action.