Overruled! Online

In 1998, on a September night in Houston, police stormed into John Lawrence's home and arrested him and Tyron Garner for violating Texas' "homosexual conduct" law. "Overruled!" highlights their story and the courtroom drama behind Lawrence v. Texas – the case that led the U.S. Supreme Court to strike down all remaining state sodomy laws and launched a new era in the LGBT rights movement.

Overruled! on Campus

This fall, we invite you to host a screening of Overruled! on your campus. Check back here in August for a step-by-step guide on how to make your school event a part of civil rights history.

Watch the Movie

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Thanks for sharing our civil rights history
Submitted by Thebagel July 30, 2008
I am the president of the Rutgers Law School Outlaws student LGBT group. This is a great video to show at conferences and I am also forwarding it to the 1L Con Law professors. I believe they will be willing to show it during the Lawrence v. Texas section of their courses, and it will really benefit the students. Thanks!
Submitted by Anonymous July 22, 2008
Thank you for capturing this important moment in the history of LGBT civil rights. Our memory of the events is as important as the events themselves.
Submitted by tjgpalmer July 9, 2008
a human story well told with emotional, humanity, real life poignancy and integrity with logical reasoning and an optomistic positive wonderful outcome.
Submitted by Carlos July 8, 2008
This is what the GLBT community needs to see. They need to see what kind of issues have happened in the past and show the progress that has been made in the community. Which unfourtunately the younger society doesn't understand!
Submitted by JaYsOn4All July 8, 2008
Hang tough!
Submitted by Anonymous July 4, 2008
Loved the documentary. I had been keping track of the California Supreme Court hearing regarding same sex marriage, and was totally on the edge of my seat during the proceedings, and it helps now to get an idea of the Supreme Court cases that set the precedent for the wonderful things that are happening now in my own state.
Submitted by Adrian July 3, 2008
As newlyweds (June 25) having had the longest engagement in history (55+ years), we're still basking in the wonder of our "entry into civil recognition" as equal (well somewhat equal( citizens. AND, we know that Lawrence played such a strong influence in the California Supreme Court decision. The movie, aside from bringing us to tears at times, certainly clearly affirms that premise. It makes us even more proud of our membership in Lambda Legal, and re-invigorates our devotion to it as an organization.
Submitted by Ron & Tom July 2, 2008
Thank-you for not only an excellant, well thought out film on this case, but its importance in regards to other rights to be won in this country. 39 years after Stonewall and many of us have become complacent, forgetful of the battles fought and won and the many brave citizens, of both genders, gay & straight, who refused to accept inequality. I especially appreciate the insights in regards to other rights, how this victory will impact future decisions.
Submitted by val43202 June 30, 2008
we have the same rights as everyone esle we should be aloud to live happy to
Submitted by angelseyes42069 June 30, 2008
sweeeeeeeeeeeeet....mean people suck don't they???
Submitted by jj June 30, 2008
I was not familiar with this important triumph for the LBGT community. It is very encouraging. Thank you.
Submitted by Anonymous June 30, 2008
Great clips-- puts a real 'face' on such an important--and heart-stoppingly exciting--case. Nice camera angles, interviews, and drama to keep it as interesting as it should be! (However-- why the exclamation point after "Overruled"? It is excting, but does this limit the video's credibility?)
Submitted by Anonymous June 30, 2008
This is an inspiring movie....its amazing that personal civil liberties we take for granted SHOULD NOT BE.
Submitted by davefl June 30, 2008
This was a great victory for the LGBT community. It is to ban that the High court is is conservative now. But we need to shift nationwide LGBT focus to the California anti-gay marriage amendment.
Submitted by Jchang1 June 30, 2008
A beautiful film about the decision that changed and started it all. Thanks!
Submitted by Anonymous June 29, 2008
very informative! Worth watching again
Submitted by tklove June 29, 2008
great film
Submitted by Anonymous June 29, 2008
What a great precedent this set, for all of us who still battle to have full protections and rights today!
Submitted by JBr June 29, 2008
Great job. One step closer to federal recognition of marriage equality so I can join my partner in the US.
Submitted by Anonymous June 29, 2008
Excellent. THIS STORY MUST BE MADE INTO A FEATURE FILM. It is tender, tragic and most of all inspirational.
Submitted by Anonymous June 29, 2008
Thank you SO much for sharing "Overruled!": an intensely beautiful documentary. I had chills down my spine which turned into overflowing tears of joy. . . Every high school in the United States should have this as part of their social studies curriculum. It is done so professionally and tells a fascinating and gripping story. It is a true example of the beauty of our constitution and what justice truly means. Thank You!!
Submitted by Miguel June 28, 2008
This is an event that I will remember the rest of my living days. Thank you so very much for the great work.
Submitted by Perico429 June 28, 2008
thank you! this litigation has helped so many of us in so many ways!!
Submitted by Anonymous June 28, 2008
I was deeply moved. It shows gay and lesbian people as human beings worthy of respect. I, being black and gay, was glad that black gay people were represented in this film.
Submitted by ed June 28, 2008
There have been three important rulings in my lifetime. The first was the consenting adults bill and signing by Governor Jerry Brown in California, the second was the one in Texas Lawerence vs Texas that guaranteed no fear in the US for same sex, and the last was the recent decision by the California Supreme Court on the right to marry. I feel my life has come full circle. I am one of the people that had to fear that my license would be written down if I walked into a gay bar. I marched in SF when Harvey Milk was murdered and when the first AIDS candlelight march was held. Now we only have to wipe out homophobia and the killer diseases. It can be done.
Submitted by QueenZafrona June 28, 2008
Justice Scalia immediately announced that the ruling would open the way for gay marriage. How right he was. Kennedy gave a very elagent decision for the majority. I have carried a link to the decision on every website I run, if possible. It is the opinion of some legal experts that it may well be the greatest decision in this century because it declares the right of privacy. Privacy has never before had such a clear ringing definition. Your presentation is the only such of its kind I have found on the web and it is very well done and very much appreciated.
Submitted by Norm June 28, 2008
This was surprisingly informative and truely touching.
Submitted by Anonymous June 28, 2008
Extremely instructive. Very clear and unapologetic sans obsequiousness. Voices didn't sync with the pictures. This was distracting.
Submitted by Anonymous June 27, 2008
This film reached way into my gut, eliciting happiness for all of us, of course, but an immense sorrow that this country has so far to go and how so many humans are not in control of their own lives, but fear is.
Submitted by zoli June 27, 2008
This movie is awesome. It proved its point.
Submitted by Anonymous June 27, 2008
Wonderful, it gives me a feeling of hope.
Submitted by Jonathan June 27, 2008
This is a really great movie. I think a lot of people don't understand how recently things have been do discriminatory. This was an important moment in the history of LGBT rights and even just privacy rights, and I'm proud I was alive to see it. Thanks for this movie!
Submitted by Zack June 27, 2008
Great documentary. Intriguing, educational and a happy ending!
Submitted by BethZ June 27, 2008
Nicely done. Makes me feel very proud!
Submitted by GaryRifkin June 27, 2008
This film is so heartening, so heart warming, filled with tension and the happiest of releases. I congratulate EVERYONE who worked on this excitingly successful case. Way to go!
Submitted by Betsey June 27, 2008
Thank god for Lamba for bringing justice to the states that encouraged "JUST US." Kudos to all of the decent people in this film who took on discrimination laws!.
Submitted by MarkB June 27, 2008
This is a great and empowering film and I hope that more will be able to view and be informed. Thank you for this great feeling to do more for my fellow GLBT people.
Submitted by rphguy1 June 27, 2008
As an exPat living & working in Europe some 16+ years. I find it almost heart wrenching that my home country is just "catching up" to the rules that it virtually set up for itself. Western Europe is light years ahead when it come to know and understand human rights and what "... the pursuit of happiness" means. I live in Belgium, we have had marriage between LGBT going on for some 10 years, I am embarrassed to think that America is not the guiding light for others to follow, but a bumbling old fool trying to find its way out of the dark. I am proud of the Lawrence decision and yet amazed that this is only how far you are. Welcome to America ... please set your "human-rights watches" back 10 years.
Submitted by EuroRant June 27, 2008
Very moving and well done...our journey toward equality continues.
Submitted by Felipe Zuvichaux June 27, 2008
Big cheers to the makers of this film. As important as remembering Stonewall. Thanks.
Submitted by daren June 27, 2008
The new civil rights era is upon us, with Lamda legal at the forefront.
Submitted by Matt June 27, 2008
Very well done, emotion invoking, it took a long journey to several wonderful ends for the Gay & Lesbian community.
Submitted by seapsrainbird June 27, 2008
Hooray for Lambda Legal!
Submitted by Fifi June 27, 2008
This is a real story with a happy ending. Discrimination of any kind is not okay. This movie gives hope for a better world and demonstrates that people who are not afraid to stand up against discrimination can make a difference in this world. Of course, having great lawyers helps too. Thanks to Lambda Legal
Submitted by Lisa Anderson Mares June 27, 2008
WOW! I never really thought how much of an impact this case and these two men on our lives had until I watched this movie. What a perfect way to start my Pride weekend :-) Thanks!
Submitted by Ken June 27, 2008
Do I like this movie? I am happy that this rediculous law was stricken off of the law books in the 13 states - including Texas where I live. I look forward to the day when there is total equality where movies like this won't have to be made. www.integrityfortworth.org
Submitted by Padre Tom June 26, 2008
In an era where one daily feels that civil liberties are in jeopardy, that the constitution is in peril, Overruled is an inspiring tonic. Sometimes, even under this administration, the good guys can win and justice can prevail. Thanks to the courage of the plaintiffs, to the hard work of Lambda Legal, and to the makers of the film. You give us all hope when we most need it.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
After being in the first GayPride parade in Boston many years ago and have baseball bats and cops after me. After supporting gay groups for many years this movies brings tears to my eyes. I am so proud that we have such great talent with such strong values and ideals we represent the best of many different views and opinions, but, we can gather the strength to over come major odds. Congratulations to my gay groups for a great fight. D
Submitted by DenDen June 26, 2008
Documenting our civil rights struggle is very important. It also brings the message of our humanity to the areas where we do not have rights.
Submitted by Kate June 26, 2008
Great movie, excellent depiction of the day to day fight for equality.
Submitted by SAHRunner86 June 26, 2008
It is a part of our history that probably will not be seen in textbooks thus the story must be told. Kudos for this documentary and the message it conveys.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
There continues an undercurrent of discontent in the USA directed towards gay and lesbians. Every opportunity is being used to ram someone's morality down the throats of every gay and lesbian. Sooner or later, every gay and lesbian will have to defend his/her human rights.
Submitted by Bachabozi June 26, 2008
Equality for All!!! Excellent film.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
I loved it! As a gay man having come out late in life I am always inspired by the courage of my sisters and brothers who fought sometimes at the cost of their own lives. They have helped pave the way for me to be who God made me to be. It's still a struggle, but Overruled! encourages me to love myself as I am.
Submitted by TIm June 26, 2008
Amazing story! Freedom!
Submitted by Chris Finch June 26, 2008
I am so thankfull for Lambda Legals efforts to overtunr the discrininatory statute and allow GLB individuals to live a bit more freely under the law.
Submitted by hezthelez June 26, 2008
Profound! Because the United States holds such a large percentage of the out LGBT population of humanity, what happens there has such a strong effect upon the rest of us. The ruling - about which I profess ignorance until watching this - ushered a change in the law that was long overdue but I'm so glad that the century has begun on such a positive note. Also, that the decision came two days off of Stonewall Day cannot underestimate the importance of the end of June to our people around the world. Happy Stonewall Day! Happy Pride!
Submitted by AJ June 26, 2008
This film is nothing short of amazing. I included Lawrence vs. Texas in gay rights paper I wrote recently and it is shocking to realize how many people are not informed on the subject. I am so thankful that there are organizations out there like Lambda Legal.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
Very good documentary, which brought back the emotions and the excitement we felt five years ago. The majority opinion in the Bowers case was a national disgrace, which has now been given its appropriate place in our nation's trash can. I'm am grateful to Lambda Legal and proud to be a member of their organization.
Submitted by Mark Baltimore June 26, 2008
This is more than just a informative short film, this film is a freedom bell, that every time it's rung, it reminds of our human given rights that so eloquently were sounded of in the past in, "Let Freedom Ring", in ", But this is part of a much larger freedom call/goal, a much larger dream. A wise young man once stood at a Washington memorial, and Declared with rigious passion that "I have a Dream". It was a cry to that all men have the right to freedom, and liberty, regardless of the color of ones skin. As strong as that declaration was, it forgot, to inclued, everybody, means everybody, has the right to equal rights, and respect regardless of religion, race, age, gender, and SEXUAUL PREFRENCE. This film reminds us that we have step forward in a big way as far as the right to sexual perfrence. It also underlines that we have a long way to go . And leaves us with a blissful relief, that we are closer to one of our human right goal. Thank You for the film, I'm a senior disabled veteran, who's part of one of the first over 50 gay groups in a Veteran Hospital in NYC. I will spread the good news of this great short film. A big hug, and many blessings. It feel so good that in my sixties, because of work from organizations, and project films like this one, I can feel so proud to say, and be gay. Thank you kindly .
Submitted by happynando June 26, 2008
We really need more dcoumented stories like this to show the impact that court decisions can have! Thanks so much for all of the wonderful work you do for our community!
Submitted by dpwong June 26, 2008
Loved it. Made me proud and optimistic and inspired all over again. I highly encourage Lambda to keep making video -- both long and short form -- that can be shared to tell our stories and make our case for equality.
Submitted by Che June 26, 2008
An incredible video that showcases the important work that Lambda Legal does on behalf of the LGBT community. There is no organization more deserving of financial support by the gay community. Bravo!
Submitted by John R. Selig June 26, 2008
Great movie with an in-depth historical perspective and future statements as to where our justice system has been, where it is and the possibilities of where this can go. Bravo Lambda and all of us who live with integrity and happen to be LGBT.
Submitted by Ellie June 26, 2008
Fabulous! Thank you!
Submitted by Jo June 26, 2008
Very moving and inspiring movie! It's a great promotional tool. I was just reading something on Huffpo when your ad caught my eye, so I decided to watch. "Overruled" totally captured me, and taught me a lot. I did not know the story. Congratulations!!!
Submitted by girlgoneriled June 26, 2008
This excellent short movie brings the personal story behind this Supreme Court decision to life in a vivid and personal way that straight people will be able to relate to.
Submitted by deb June 26, 2008
It's great to learn about the actual people in the case, and to be reminded of the sweeping implications of the ruling.
Submitted by GLBTout June 26, 2008
beautiful! what a lovely, inspiring moment to remember...too bad it would've gone the other way if it was today though.
Submitted by Marie June 26, 2008
I like the movie. I especially liked the fact that you used the voice of Justice Kennedy reading the decision. Justice Kennedy has been a friend for many years, although I don't know if he knows I am gay. About a year after the Lawrence decision I was talking to him and commented on what a great decision it was. He said that it was one of the easiest decisions he had ever written and said that he would have to go back and read it again to see why it has caused so much publicity. You evidentally did a great job in arguing the case, but you were also arguing it to some neat people.
Submitted by Glenn June 26, 2008
fabulous documenary. Thanks for highlighting the struggle.
Submitted by lindoro Almaviva June 26, 2008
Great. I liked the diversity of the people included and the sense that the case went beyond sodomy to our whole lives.
Submitted by Lennieewg June 26, 2008
wounderful thank you for all the work Lamda Legal has done for me!
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
I was surprised to hear that Texas has not removed the ordinance from their books and that it was originally applicable to hetero and homosexuals only later to abe changed to exempt heterosexuals.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
Very factual, historical. Needed information for all Gays. I like the emphasis on Gays as being family members.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
Thank you so much for this video. I remember hunting through libraries trying to find books on gay and lesbian history when I was just coming out, sometimes with limited success. Now history is delivered in my e-mail! How wonderful! Chuck
Submitted by Chuck June 26, 2008
this is one of the most powerful documentaries I have see. we all have come a long way but there is still a lot if work to be done. THANKS from the bottom of my heart.
Submitted by robomedic June 26, 2008
History will record this decision as a true turning point in history. I think many contemporary LGTB folks don't realize just how much change has occured in our lifetimes. This film should open some eyes to that.
Submitted by Culture Bearer June 26, 2008
This is a powerful movie. I had chills - I had tears - I was so proud. I am more than ever a supporter of Lambda Legal.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
It is a great film documenting another chapter in America's continued struggle for civil rights.
Submitted by thecolonel June 26, 2008
Great documentary!! I completely remember celebrating with my friends that day!! I am such a SCOTUS junkie!
Submitted by dukegrl June 26, 2008
It was very life affirming and gives me hope that our stuggles for justice and equality are not in vain.
Submitted by ozca9 June 26, 2008
As a cop in torn at my soul to see laws that are based solely on bigotry to accomplish nothing but agony for others. The fact I too was committing "love crimes" made me question everything I stood for as a American laew enforcement officer. Watching this video after pouring over the case files for years made me once again pray in thanks. Dignity, love, respect, and all the other changes that materialized since 2003, saved many lives.
Submitted by BEARfromTN June 26, 2008
This was a very touching film and made history for all of us. That was one of the largest steps in the fight for equality. Bravo.
Submitted by Debbie June 26, 2008
This was such an informational movie. I had no idea that laws like these were in place until recently.
Submitted by Amber June 26, 2008
It brought tears to my eyes. It made me proud to support Lambda Legal. And most of all, it educated me about the broad impact of the decision that I guess I knew, but did not clearly focus.
Submitted by Art June 26, 2008
Shame on an America, that claims liberty and justice for all, requiring this type of continuous fight simply to become first-class citizens in the country of our births! Shame! Thanks to Lambda for being liberators!
Submitted by Ted June 26, 2008
I love it. Great job. This is great for everyone constantly educating ourselves and the straight community our history, such recent history.
Submitted by "bob" June 26, 2008
This is an very important educational clip to teach people what happen and where we are going in the future of new rights to come before us.
Submitted by jason June 26, 2008
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Submitted by Jim Forster June 26, 2008
Wow, brought me to tears!
Submitted by tommy g June 26, 2008
A wonderfully inspiring movie that explains things with more detail than I could ever remember. In fact, when I am able, I'm going to buy more copies to give to friends and family members, just so I don't have to try and explain the whole thing again! A HUGE Thank You to the makers of the film. You've added yet another tool to help in our struggle for equality.
Submitted by Paul June 26, 2008
i came a way with a sence of empoweredment
Submitted by billy June 26, 2008
It's terrific and inspiring! Happy 5 years since Lawrence!
Submitted by MB June 26, 2008
Great movie!! It did a wonderful job explaining the far reaching effects of this landmark case. Really provided a fresh perspective.
Submitted by Heather June 26, 2008
Excellent! Thoughtful. Cleared up some things I had always wondered about since then. Now the only thing the movie made me wonder is where the heck was I in 2003 and why wasn't I watching the case closer? I didn't realize the full impact back then as some of you certainly did. But I do (and did even way back) realize the importance and impact of Lambda Legal... great job.
Submitted by marsh June 26, 2008
Great movie, it really emphasized the far reaching effects of this landmark case.
Submitted by Heather June 26, 2008
One of the opposing justices commented that he opposed Lawrence because it would pave the way for gay marriage. The next move is start legislation in the new congress for civil unions.Great film!-Frank Howell
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
Thank you Lambda Legal for all of your hard work in the past, now and in the future! This movie should be sent to all state Attorney Generals because some states are still enforcing their sodomy laws.
Submitted by SourBEAR June 26, 2008
Great movie. Required watching
Submitted by Dan June 26, 2008
very well done and an exciting step forward.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
In June 2008, law makers in Puerto Rico were able to get enough votes in the legislature to suspend the possibility of passing Law 99 which is an anti-gay law backed by conservatives, religious fanatics and church owners. I know that it will pop up again and again, but watching this movie gives me hope that as more victories like Lawrence v. Texas take place, homophobes can use the law for their hate mongering less and less. As soon as this decision came through in 2003, the homosexual conduct laws in Puerto Rico were also reversed. I am happy to be a lesbian and no law can stop me from existing as such.
Submitted by Miracles June 26, 2008
Amazing and well done, but thank god for justice finally
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
I love you, Lambda. Keep it up. Great DVD.
Submitted by Cece June 26, 2008
Nicely done! Particularly compelling are the impacts the decision had in so many aspects of equality.
Submitted by bob flavell June 26, 2008
Beautiful and inspiring movie! I knew the basic facts behind the case, but hearing from the people actually involved in the case was very educational and moving.
Submitted by Hays June 26, 2008
Excellent explanation of the use of the court system to slowly and finally get our LGBT civil rights. More to come I am sure!
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
It's a great thing to have Lambda Legal help fight gain us our civil rights. Good documentary.
Submitted by Mick June 26, 2008
I loved that the movie put faces and comments on the participants, particularly Lawrence and Gardner, and the comments of the Court as well. I was in Toronto, celebrating gay marriage at Toronto Pride, when the decision was announced. My son, John Fisher, was Grand Marshall that year for his work on gay rights and marriage in Canada and this decision made that weekend even sweeter! John has now moved into internatioal gay rights work. There are approximately 80 countries that still criminalize sodomy and seven still have the death penalty. This was a wonderful decision for the entire world---there's still so much to do. Thanks for celebrating the fifth anniversary of Lawrence v Texas and helping to raise awareness!
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
great for getting out the word.
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008
An amazing movie which celebrates a phenominal legal accomplishment that should always be remembered.
Submitted by LRM June 26, 2008
No wonder I didn't come out, even to myself, in the 80's! So thankful for the Gays and Lesbians that have paved the way for myself and others. I don't know that I would have been as brave.
Submitted by myrashirley June 26, 2008
Wonderful! It's sometimes hard to remember it was so recently that this took place.
Submitted by MAJeff June 26, 2008
An excellent presentation of an amazing decision. Inclusion of a wide spectrum of gays and lesbians helps to make the point that the constitution is for ALL the people.
Submitted by Jim June 26, 2008
I remember very well the agony of Bowers v. Hardwick, and will never forget committing civil disobedience on the steps of the Supreme Court--and going to jail for it. I also remember quite vividly the sense of relief, joy, and gratitude when the Supreme Court finally saw the error of its ways. Kudos to Lambda Legal for fighting this battle, reversing the absurd injustice, and putting forth this potent film on the back story.
Submitted by GGP June 26, 2008
This movie is incredible. I thank the brave men who fought on the behalf of all gay people and Llamba Legal for their hardwork.
Submitted by muertito June 26, 2008
This film tells the story of Lawrence v. Texas from a civil rights point of view - a point of view that will help to educate Americans on the plight of LGBT citizens for equality.
Submitted by LindaO June 26, 2008
Amazing movie, Lambda Legal! And I love the special features. I'm very proud today. Thanks for all that you do for our community. Next up - marriage equality!
Submitted by calawhound June 26, 2008
Great job, everyone! What an awesome movie... I love hearing the story from Lawrence's point of view. I hope to see many more inspiring movies from Lambda Legal!
Submitted by Anonymous June 26, 2008