About Us

Our History

Brandeis is perhaps best known because of its history of inclusion in education. Brandeis University was founded in 1948 at a time when Jews, women, and people of color were denied access to institutions of higher education.

Louis Dembitz Brandeis, the university's namesake, is the first Jewish justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Brandeis University seeks to reflect its dedication to open inquiry, the pursuit of truth, and the rights of ordinary citizens.

Since the 1950s, LGBTQ+ life at Brandeis has been out and proud. Over the decades, stories of struggle, solidarity, and hope have been published by independent student newspapers, including Brandeis' participation in the historic National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights of 1979.

Today, the Gender and Sexuality Center is a part of the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the President's Cabinet.

Queer History at Brandeis