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Mission

The Williams Institute advances sexual orientation law and public policy through rigorous, independent research and scholarship, and disseminates it to judges, legislators, policymakers, media and the public. A national think tank at UCLA Law, the Williams Institute produces high quality research with real-world relevance.

Experts at the Williams Institute have authored dozens of public policy studies and law review articles, filed amicus briefs in key court cases, provided expert testimony at legislative hearings, been widely cited in the national media, and trained thousands of lawyers, judges and members of the public. By providing new ideas and reliable information, the Williams Institute makes a difference.

Why a Think Tank?

Think tanks support intensive research, analysis, creative thinking, and problem-solving focused on public policy issues. They seek to improve policy decisions by advancing reliable information and innovative solutions.

Why establish a think tank focused on sexual orientation law?

Courts and legislatures are increasingly considering gay issues -- such as workplace discrimination, marriage, and parental rights -- but few policymakers have relevant expertise. Legal decisions continue to be based on prejudicial attitudes rather than reasoned argument and accurate data. None of the well-recognized think tanks (like the Brookings Institution or RAND) regularly address issues of sexual orientation. The Williams Institute does.

Why a university think tank?

Unlike community-based think tanks, a university-based think tank is independent and non-partisan. Its research, reports, and forums are received more readily by a wide range of public policymakers. Williams Institute and scholars have access to the vast intellectual resources of UCLA, while enjoying the academic freedom to pursue new ideas and provocative projects. UCLA is the first and only law school in the country to have a think tank focused on sexual orientation law.