Centers Of Excellence

The Williams Institute

Recognized nationally for its impact on policymakers and courts, the Williams Institute is a leader in rigorous, independent research on sexual orientation and gender identity law and policy.

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Leading Research Impacting LGBT Law and Policy

Founded by Chuck Williams, the Williams Institute conducts groundbreaking research on the law and the LGBT community.

The Williams Institute was founded in 2001 by businessman and philanthropist Charles Williams and scholars at UCLA School of Law, with the aim of replacing the pervasive bias against LGBT people in law, policy, and culture with objective, empirical research on LGBT issues. Visit the Williams Institute website.

For nearly two decades, policymakers, lawmakers, advocates, and the courts have relied on the Williams Institute’s expertise. Williams Institute scholars have published hundreds of studies and law review articles, consulted with government agencies and lawmakers, filed amicus briefs in pivotal court cases, delivered expert testimony at legislative hearings, and have educated thousands of lawyers, judges, and members of the public.

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Jan 12, 2026

Elana Redfield speaks with the San Francisco Chronicle about the Supreme Court case regarding trans athletes

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Dec 31, 2025

Brad Sears appears on NPR's 'All Things Considered' to discuss SNAP benefits and LGBTQ people dealing with food insecurity

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