In 1960 all fifty states had sodomy laws.  The mere imputation of homosexuality ruined careers and was considered so damaging that it was defamation per se.  Today, same-sex marriage is legal everywhere.  Almost half the states, and most major municipalities, protect the LGBT community from employment and housing discrimination.  What accounts for this extraordinary change in society's attitude toward homosexuality and gender identity?  We will ponder this question as we explore the historical and contemporary relationship between sexual identity and the law.  Topics covered include LGBT youth issues, college life, workplace discrimination, family law, and trans rights.  Much of the legal doctrine considered in the course is constitutional, including in-depth studies of the right to privacy, the First Amendment, and equal protection.  Throughout the semester we will also ask whether something has been lost in the meteoric rise of LGBT civil rights.  In the drive for equality, has the LGBT community subverted the dominant paradigm or been co-opted by it--can a gay pride parade exist without corporate sponsorship?  In this context we will offer a queer theory critique of the mainstream LGBT movement.  Join us to study and debate on one of the most compelling civil rights issues of our time.