Gender, Sexuality & Law

From reproductive rights to sexual harassment to same sex marriage and labour and social reproduction, the law is deeply involved in questions of gender and sexual justice.

Questions of gender and sexuality, as they intersect with race, religion, ethnicity and beyond, cut across a broad swath of legal areas and substantive law courses, ranging from family law, law of work, equality and discrimination law, Charter of Rights, as well as areas of social welfare, health law, tax law and many others.

Our leading scholars have helped shape contemporary debates and public policy on issues involving the legal regulation of gender and sexuality, at both the national and global levels. 

Jackman Law Building and Flavelle House at 78 Queen's Park Crescent in Toronto

Beyond the classroom

As a student here, you’ll have a myriad of opportunities to study and research this area of law.

Externships with organizations such as the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic allow students to work directly on issues of sexual and intimate violence.

Volunteer opportunities are available through Pro Bono Student Canada (PBSC) for students to work on projects ranging from sexual violence to trans legal issues.

Students may also participate in the Journal of Law and Equality, an important forum for the discussion of equality-related issues in Canada. 

Faculty

  • Rebecca Cook
    Role: Professor Emerita, Co-Director, International Reproductive and Sexual Health Law Program
    Areas of Interest:
    Gender, Sexuality & Law
    Health Law & Policy
    Human Rights Law
    International Law & Policy
  • Brenda Cossman
    Role: Associate Dean, Research; Professor
    Areas of Interest:
    Family & Children's Law
    Gender, Sexuality & Law
    Legal Theory
  • Bernard Dickens
    Role: Professor Emeritus
    Areas of Interest:
    Health Law & Policy
    Gender, Sexuality & Law
  • Role: Professor
    Areas of Interest:
    Gender, Sexuality & Law
    International Law & Policy
    Law & Development
    Law of Work
    Legal Theory

Books

Publications