A $1.7-million anonymous donation will be used to create Canada’s largest fund for the study of human sexuality at the University of British Columbia.
The donation was made in the name of Jane Rule, a lesbian literary icon and former UBC educator who contributed to the decriminalization of homosexuality and the rise of Canadian literature on the world stage.
“Jane Rule played an immense role in shaping dialogue in Canada and internationally around gay rights and the celebration of differences,” said Nancy Gallini, dean of UBC’s faculty of arts. “This generous gift will build on her legacy.”
The endowment will support programs related to the study of sexual orientation, race and gender and provide support for: UBC’s critical studies in sexuality program; lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) student groups; conferences; and visiting lectures.
