Welcome to OutLaws

A Message from the Board

OutLaws is an organization for queer and LGBTQ+ members of the Yale Law School community. We strive to create an inclusive and affirming space for all queer identities at YLS, fostering community, connection, and support. Our mission includes providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for those committed to advancing LGBTQ+ rights while actively advocating for legal and social issues impacting our community. Founded in the early 1970s, OutLaws drives change by hosting speakers, supporting activism, organizing social events, and representing YLS at LGBTQ+ legal conferences. We prioritize intersectional approaches to address the diverse needs of queer students, amplifying their voices within the law school and bridging connections between students, alumni, and the broader legal profession.

The YLS Nondiscrimination Policy states:

Yale Law School is committed to a policy against discrimination based upon age, color, handicap or disability, ethnic or national origin, race, religion, religious creed, gender (including discrimination taking the form of sexual harassment), marital, parental, veteran status, sexual orientation, or the prejudice of clients.

Mission

OutLaws exists to build community and support for LGBTQ+ students at Yale Law School while advocating for justice for all LGBTQ+ individuals, within and beyond the Yale community. We recognize that true justice for LGBTQ+ people must address and affirm the full complexity of individuals’ identities, acknowledging the intersecting forms of marginalization they may face. OutLaws is committed to centering the needs, safety, and voices of intersectionally marginalized groups within our membership and the broader LGBTQ+ community. We strive to foster an inclusive and equitable environment that challenges oppression in all its forms. The OutLaws board recognizes and celebrates the rich diversity of identities and experiences within queer communities and is committed to an anti-oppressive, intersectional approach in all of its work. We intentionally design our community spaces and programming and support efforts to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression.

2024-2025 Sponsors

YLS OutLaws is grateful to the following firms and organizations for their support of our efforts to support the LGBTQ+ community at Yale Law:

Gold Level - Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; Jenner & Block LLP

Silver Level - Jenner & Block; Cooley LLP; Covington & Burling LLP;

Bronze Level - Ropes & Gray LLP