LGBTQ+ identities have never not been controversial in our society, and that controversy extends to the ongoing evolution of health law and policy affecting LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. This course will explore the history of medicalization of LGBTQ+ identities and the ongoing effects of this approach – for better and worse. We will examine the legal and policy implications of such topics as the HIV epidemic, gender-affirming care, “conversion therapy,” access to care in prisons and similar settings, approaches to intersex individuals, and other current relevant topics. Students will be introduced to an array of contract, administrative, statutory, and constitutional principles, as well as non-governmental policy (e.g., health insurance) analyses, which can and have been brought to bear on these subjects, with a (non-exclusive) emphasis on circumstances in Minnesota. Finally, we will discuss some of the real-life considerations legal advocates make as they develop their advocacy strategies. Grading: Letter Credits: 1 Offered: Subject Areas: Administrative and Legislative Process, Constitutional Law and Civil Rights
