Sexual orientation
You have protections against discrimination.
You have the right to work in an environment free of unlawful harassment and other forms of discrimination based on your sexual orientation.
Discrimination can occur when you and the person who discriminated against you share a protected characteristic such as sexual orientation.
You generally have a right to protection from discrimination regardless of your immigration status, although, in some cases, immigration status may limit the remedies that you’ll be able to obtain.
Questions?
We’re here to help.
We are committed to helping you understand your rights as a worker.
For additional assistance, please contact:
EEOC: 1-800-669-4000 (ASL Video Phone: 1-844-234-5122), info@eeoc.gov, or use the Public Portal
What this means for you
Employers are not allowed to discriminate against you because of:
- your sexual orientation, or
- marriage or association with a same-sex partner.
Examples of discrimination
In general, this means that you cannot be:
- fired,
- rejected for a job or promotion,
- given lesser assignments,
- forced to take leave, or
- otherwise disciplined
because of your sexual orientation.