LGBTQ Rights

The ACLU works to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people can live openly without discrimination, and enjoy equal rights, personal autonomy, and freedom of expression and association.

Five young people in ACLU teal shirts posing for a picture.

Equal rights, personal autonomy, and freedom of expression and association.

The ACLU works to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and transgender people can live openly without discrimination, and enjoy equal rights, personal autonomy, and freedom of expression and association.

Victories in the courts, legislatures, and court of public opinion

The struggle for legal equality for LGBTQ people rests on several fundamental constitutional principles:

  • Equal Protection is guaranteed by the 5th and 14th Amendments
  • Freedom of speech and association, including the right to form social and political organizations, to socialize, to produce works of art with LGBTQ themes, and to speak out, is guaranteed by the First Amendment.

Since 1936, the ACLU has protected LGBTQ rights. Today, the ACLU brings more cases and advocacy initiatives than any other national organization does.

The Latest


News & Commentary
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We Must Stop Forcing Conformity on Intersex Bodies

A core aspect of human autonomy and dignity is to be able to make decisions about our own bodies.
Press Release
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ACLU Convenes Second ‘Equity in Action’ Conference to Train Community Leaders, Activists to Advance Social Change

News & Commentary
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Celebrate Pride Month by Improving California Laws

News & Commentary
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Supreme Court Upholds Basic Principles of Nondiscrimination, Reverses Colorado Civil Rights Commission Decision

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Legislation
Sep 17, 2018

Gender Health in Foster Care (AB 2119)

Legislation
Jun 26, 2018

Dignity and Opportunity Act (SB 990)

Legislation
Jun 11, 2018

California, Say Her Name

Legislation
Feb 13, 2007

Bill Gives Domestic Partners, Married Spouses Equal Opportunity to Take Surname of Choice