Dear John,
Seventeen years ago, when I first joined the Williams Institute, I was excited to tell my dad about my new job. I explained that I was working for a research center at UCLA dedicated to securing LGBTQ equality through data and scholarship. He responded, “So you’re trying to work yourself out of a job.”
At the time, I laughed. But his comment has stayed with me, because it captured the essence of why we do this work. The Williams Institute was founded on the belief that rigorous research can help build a future where LGBTQ people are fully recognized in law and policy—and where the disparities we document today no longer exist.
I’m proud of all the impact our work has had so far. But as you know, the past few years have brought unprecedented policy attacks on LGBTQ people. Misinformation spreads faster than ever. Evidence-based policymaking is under threat. And the need for rigorous, independent research has never been greater.
That’s why I’m not out of a job yet. We are still building a future where my dad’s comment could finally come true.
To move toward that future, we rely on you.
As we head into our 25th anniversary year, I hope you will consider making a gift to the Williams Institute.
Together, we can continue producing the research that drives change—and bring us closer to the world we all imagine. Thank you for being part of this work.
Wishing you the best in 2026,
Christy
Roberta A. Conroy Interim Executive Director and Legal Director
