Yes, you may be able to sue your employer if you are discriminated against at work because of your sexual orientation. As a whole, American society has taken huge steps in recognizing legal rights of gay and lesbian individuals. However, discrimination still occurs, and often happens at work.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination in the workplace based on certain characteristics, including age, race, sex, religion, and more. Title VII does not explicitly forbid discrimination based on sexual orientation. However, in 2011 and 2012 the EEOC ruled that job discrimination against lesbians, gays, and transgendered individuals was discrimination based on sex and is therefore illegal. In addition, California law also forbids discrimination based on sexual orientation in the workplace.
Sexual orientation discrimination occurs when someone is treated differently based on his or her sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation. Some examples include being denied a promotion because of perceived or actual sexual orientation, being treated differently at work after coworkers find out about your sexual orientation, or being asked not to bring your partner to work events. In all of those situations, you may have a valid claim for sexual orientation discrimination.
If you believe that you have been discriminated against at work because of your sexual orientation, you should speak with an attorney. If you are in Los Angeles, call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles workplace discrimination attorney at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call today to learn more.