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.

Employment discrimination may also occur when an employer’s seemingly fair policies or practices have a significant negative impact on people because of their sexual orientation without demonstrating the policies or practices are job-related and consistent with business necessity. And discrimination can also occur when you and the person who discriminated against you share a protected characteristic like 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.

Mechanic partners taking a selfie in auto repair shop
Mid adult businesswoman working with technology at coworking

Questions?
We’re here to help.

We are committed to helping you understand your rights as a worker. Many questions about your rights may be answered by using the following elaws (Employment Laws Assistance for Workers and Small Businesses) Advisors:

For additional assistance, please contact:

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.

Additional resources