The struggle for legal equality for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgendered and queer people rests on several fundamental constitutional principles. Equal protection of the law is guaranteed by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments. Freedom of speech and association, including the right to form social and political organizations, to socialize, to produce works of art with gay and lesbian themes, and to speak out, is guaranteed by the First Amendment.

Last year marked the ACLU's 75th anniversary of protecting LGBTQ rights. At a pivotal moment in history, as opponents of the LGBTQ movement seek to block any recognition of same-sex relationships, to prevent gay people from being parents, and to allow all types of harassment and discrimination, the ACLU is using impact litigation, public education, and community organizing to fight for LGBTQ people's basic civil rights.

RESOURCES

San Diego ACLU's Work on LGBTQ Rights [PDF]

LGBT Teens: Know Your Rights! [ACLU website]

ACLU's LGBT Work: 70-Year Timeline [PDF]

Know Your Rights Wallet Card [PDF]