Health, Reproductive Rights & Sexuality

Sexuality and gender are a major focus of NCRW member center research, policy and advocacy efforts. Increasing support for LGBT rights, both nationally and internationally, is an outgrowth of such research and public awareness campaigns. Our network recognizes the complexity of human sexuality and how gender roles can be stereotyped and narrowly defined by society. There are important sexuality and gender dimensions to policymaking and legal rights, including those related to marriage, the custodial rights of unmarried single parents and same-sex couples, and anti-discrimination employment and housing laws. Our member centers are examining gender identity and the ever-evolving perceptions of masculinity and femininity in popular culture and politics.