POLS 346: Queer Politics and Policy

Course Description

What role does sexual identity play in American politics? In what ways has domestic politics shaped the U.S. LGBT community? In this course, we will debate the meaning of sexual identity and ideologies and explore how they have been viewed throughout American history. Next we will examine the impact of sexual identity on public opinion and political participants, particularly candidates and officeholders. We will look at the unique experiences of LGBT groups in the U.S., and consider the relationships between sexual identity, race, class, and gender. Finally, we will look at the relationship between sexual identity and public policy, particularly: same-sex marriage, adoption rights, anti-sodomy laws, and hate crimes legislation.