Emily Kazyak

I am interested in the cultural and legal meanings of sexuality, how these meanings change (particularly with regard to increasing recognition of LGBTQ identities and families), and how Americans respond to such changes. My research employs both qualitative and quantitative methods and encompasses a variety of viewpoints, including general public opinion, family members of LGBTQ people, and LGBTQ people themselves.

My current research includes a project that examines American public opinion of religious freedom laws that reference LGBTQ people. These are laws that provide religious exemptions for certain services and benefits for LGBTQ persons. My research seeks to understand how Americans make sense of these laws and why they support or oppose these laws.