Prerequisites: None

Exam: No Exam

This reading group addresses substantive and strategic issues affecting efforts to obtain and retain legal equality for LGBTQ people in the U.S. The materials will encompass efforts in courts, in legislative bodies (all levels) and public opinion as they are connected. Students will learn the trajectory of progress and opportunities and roadblocks going forward at the state and national levels. Topically, we will address: liberty issues, including autonomy around sexuality; non-discrimination paradigms; offensive and defensive First Amendment issues, including religious exemption/free exercise issues; issues around the standard of review for laws classifying based on sex, sexual orientation and gender identity; family formation, and issues facing youth in schools and in their families; and other current topics.

Note: This reading group will meet on the following dates: 9/9, 9/23, 10/7, 10/21, 11/4, and 11/18.