Before Lawrence v. Texas

The Making of a Queer Social Movement

By: Wesley G. Phelps

Narrated by: Gary Roelofs

Length: 11 hrs and 34 mins

Publisher's summary

In 2003 the US Supreme Court overturned anti-sodomy laws across the country, ruling in Lawrence v. Texas that the Constitution protects private consensual sex between adults. Many years of work and organizing led up to the legal case, and the landmark ruling might never have happened were it not for the passionate struggle of Texans who rejected their states discriminatory laws.

Before Lawrence v. Texas tells the story of the long, troubled, and ultimately hopeful road to constitutional change. Wesley G. Phelps describes the achievements, setbacks, and unlikely alliances along the way. Over the course of decades, and at great risk to themselves, gay and lesbian Texans and their supporters launched political campaigns and legal challenges, laying the groundwork for Lawrence. Phelps shares the personal experiences of the people and couples who contributed to the legal strategy that ultimately overturned the states discriminatory law. Even when their individual court cases were unsuccessful, justice seekers and activists collectively influenced public opinion by insisting that their voices be heard. Nine Supreme Court justices ruled, but it was grassroots politics that vindicated the ideal of equality under the law.

The book is published by University of Texas Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

©2023 University of Texas Press (P)2024 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"A fascinating and much-needed history of the political and legal developments that confronted the gay and lesbian community in Texas..." (Dale Carpenter, Southern Methodist University)

"An important contribution to our understanding of the long and continuing struggle for LGBTQ rights..." (David K. Johnson, University of South Florida)

"An excellent contribution to the historiography and should be read by those interested in modern LGBTQ+ and legal history." (Pacific Historical Review)