GLAD attorney receives "Best LGBT Lawyer Under 40" Award

The National LGBT Bar Association has named Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) staff attorney Janson Wu to its Class of 2011 Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40.

"This is a well-deserved honor for Janson and we are thrilled that his work at GLAD is being recognized by the National LGBT Bar Association," said Gary Buseck, acting executive director. "Janson has indeed distinguished himself?in the legal arena and in the LGBT movement?and we are proud to have him as a member of the GLAD team."

Wu most recently litigated on behalf of Maine's Brianna Freeman, a transgender woman who was denied access to the women's restroom at a Denny's restaurant. The case resulted in a policy change by the restaurant's owner, Realty Resources Hospitality, to allow transgender patrons access to the restroom consistent with their gender presentation.

"It is such an honor to be recognized by my peers at the National LGBT Bar Association for doing work that I love," said Wu, a graduate of Harvard University and Harvard Law School. "I am equally honored to join my local colleague Patience 'Polly' Crozier, a partner at the Law Firm of Joyce Kauffman in Cambridge, who was also named to the Class of 2011 Best Lawyers Under 40. In addition to being a longtime collaborator and supporter of GLAD, Polly is a brilliant lawyer and a dedicated LGBT advocate."

The LGBT Bar established the award to recognize lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender legal professionals under the age of 40 who have distinguished themselves in their field and demonstrated a profound commitment to LGBT equality. Wu and the other honorees will be recognized at the National LGBT Bar Association's 2011 Lavender Law Conference in September.