Synopsis
Covering the late 1800s to 2001, "Gay Rights on Trial" highlights how the American public's increased acceptance of sexual minorities has influenced judicial opinion in some cases and how the courts have led public opinion in others. The handbook presents the historical and political context of the cases discussed and addresses relevant topics such as: changing views of the nature of homosexuality; freedom of speech, equal protection, and due process as applied to gay rights; the new legal rights of same-sex families; judicial decisions and legislative progress; the constitutionality of sodomy laws; the legacy, impact, and ideologies of the gay liberation/gay rights movement; and the future path of gay rights in the courts.