It is important to know that LGBTQ workers have protections against discrimination in the workplace. LGBTQ workers should be familiar with these protections and how they can help ensure the protections in place are followed and that they are protected in their workplaces.
Discrimination on the basis of race, religion, national origin or sex is prohibited under federal law. Sexual orientation and gender identity fall under protections based on sex according to a United States Supreme Court ruling. This provides important protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer workers.
What Are the Protections for LGBTQ Workers?
Protections include that LGBTQ workers cannot be discriminated against for promotions at work and also cannot be terminated based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. In addition, they cannot face other negative treatment because of their sexual orientation or gender identity which could include a reduction in hours or in pay as examples. The protections also extend to applicants for employment during the interview and hiring process. Potential employers cannot discriminate against job applicants on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Protections for LGBTQ workers also extend to equal pay protections, as well as provide protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. If a worker believes they have been discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity, different legal protections may be available to them that they should be aware of. LGBTQ workers have a right to fairness in the hiring process, to not be discriminated against in the hiring or employment processes and to feel safe in their workplaces.