Herb Selwyn

Herbert E. Selwyn (April 25, 1925 - February 3, 2016) was an American attorney and businessperson. Selwyn worked as a criminal defense attorney and was counsel to the American Civil Liberties Union in the 1950s. His role as an LGBT rights advocate led to the incorporation of the first gay organization, the Mattachine Society.

Early life and education Selwyn was born on April 25, 1925, in Hollywood to Leo and Lily Seligmann. He was raised in West Hollywood, California, and graduated from Fairfax High School. Selwyn entered University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) before enlisting in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. Selwyn served in England, France, and Germany. He later reentered UCLA and graduated from USC Gould School of Law. Selwyn was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1950. In 1974, he was a candidate for the democratic nomination for the 24th congressional district. John Anson Ford endorsed Selwyn's candidacy. Towards the end of his career, Selwyn did arbitration and pro bono work.