You can help!
The Project has received generous start-up funding from the University, but supplemental funds from external sources are needed to ensure its long term vitality. Lesbian, gay, and queer studies scholarship is not simply an academic matter; it can have far-reaching effects on people's lives. When the Supreme Court overturned the nation’s sodomy laws in its landmark decision in Lawrence v. Texas, it explained that recent scholarship on the history of homosexuality and sexual regulation had shown that the historical rationale for upholding sodomy laws provided by the majority in the 1986 Bowers v. Hardwick decision was wrong. The Washington Post, in an analysis of What Gay Studies Taught the Court, credited the scholarly efforts of a group of history professors, toiling away in the nascent and controversial field of gay studies with playing a decisive role in the court's decision.
As the Lawrence decision makes clear, there is an urgent need for highly-trained lesbian, gay, and queer scholars capable of conducting the fundamental research that will enlighten policy makers and public opinion. It is equally crucial that the insights of lesbian and gay studies be incorporated into the standard curriculum and not relegated to the margins of the university. The development of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender studies at the University of Chicago, long recognized as one of the nation’s leading centers of graduate training and as a pioneer in the creation of innovative academic programs, will have enduring influence far beyond its walls.
The University of Chicago has demonstrated its commitment to supporting this vital area of study. But the Project needs the additional support of alumni and friends who recognize the importance of this field. Contributions can be made to the Lesbian and Gay Studies Project as a whole or earmarked to support the research of graduate students and faculty or programs such as conferences and lecture series.
Fully tax-deductible donations should be made payable to the University of Chicago, with LGSP written on the memo line, and sent to:
Patrick McCusker
Development and Alumni Relations
Dean's Office, Social Sciences Division
University of Chicago
mccusker@uchicago.edu
(773) 834-1457
For questions about major gifts, please contact Noel Salinger, Office of Development and Alumni Relations.