Jack Lam

Major and Classification

Political Science

Faculty Mentors

  • Professor Alison Renteln

Department

  • Political Science

McNair Project

“Class-Based Equal Protection for Same-Sex Couples: Sex and/or Sexual Orientation Discrimination?”

Previous research reveals that it may be fundamentally problematic to utilize sex-based equality arguments in courts when discussing laws that classify individuals based on sexual orientation. Sex-based equality arguments fail to address current discrimination based on sexual orientation. The purpose of this study is to address patterns in the interpretations of judges upon the presentation of these two arguments. This research aims to provide researchers and legal analysts insight on how future court cases might advance the concept of equality for individuals historically not afforded equitable treatment in the court system.