Los Angeles Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyers
iscrimination against any group of people is unacceptable, including the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community. As social attitudes on equality have progressed, so has our ability to fight sexual orientation discrimination within the legal system. Employers cannot use sexual orientation as a way to discriminate against you any more than they can use the color of your skin or your gender. If you need a Los Angeles sexual orientation discrimination lawyer, Blackstone Law may be able to assist.
The LGBTQ community remains more vulnerable than ever before to workplace harassment. The legalities on this continue to evolve. Knowing your rights is the first step to finding a sexual orientation discrimination attorney in Los Angeles to provide guidance on this issue.
What is Sexual Orientation Discrimination in the Workplace?
Sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace is characterized by discriminatory behaviors from an employer based on your orientation. It may be characterized by actions that may include (but are not limited to):
- Refusal to hire someone based on their sexual orientation
- Termination or demotion based on sexual orientation
- Denial of equal wages based on gender identity or sexual orientation
- The perpetuation of a hostile work environment or harassment in the workplace because of gender identity or sexual orientation
Sexual orientation discrimination laws changed at the federal level in 2020. This was when the Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling which held that employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or transgender status is unlawful under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The ruling applies to workplaces with 15 or more employees. It also provides us with the legal foundation necessary to help you pursue your sexual discrimination case if you feel your employer has victimized you.
Harms of Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Sexual orientation discrimination can be extremely harmful and pervasive. The Williams Institute notes that between 16 and 68 percent of LGBTQ employees have experienced discrimination in the workplace. The harm is further manifested in those actions that happen alongside discrimination. From losing out on possible employment opportunities to physical violence in the workplace, the harm that sexual orientation discrimination perpetuates is often lasting and impactful.
Between 8 and 17 percent of LGB individuals have reported being fired or passed over for employment opportunities due to their sexual orientation. Another 10 to 28 percent were given negative performance reviews, while up to 41% of individuals responding to a survey admitted being physically abused in the workplace or experiencing vandalism due to their sexual orientation. Between 15 and 57 percent of transgender individuals have also reported employment discrimination, with the same percentage reporting termination because of their established gender identity.
These statistics underscore the pervasiveness of sexual orientation discrimination in Los Angeles. They also show that discrimination manifests in myriad ways. Being passed over for a promotion or being ostracized in the workplace may be the start. But these statistics show that the situation can – and often does – evolve into violence for LBTGQ employees in the workplace.
Benefits of Working with a Los Angeles Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyer
Even though sexual orientation discrimination is unethical and unlawful, it still happens more than people may realize. You may feel intimidated at the notion of taking on your employer for creating this kind of work environment. After all, social attitudes towards LGBTQ populations have only just begun to shift on a macro level, and there is still much to go where equal protections are concerned. However, this is one of the reasons we work closely with those clients to pursue justice and ensure that they feel supported through the entire process.
We will explain the legalities of your case and provide you with a wide array of options to ensure that the avenue you pursue offers the best possible outcome. We work within your comfort zone, encouraging you to stand up and fight, while showing you that we are in your corner every step of the way.
We’re committed to justice and equality, which is one of the reasons we’ve cultivated a team of the top Los Angeles sexual orientation discrimination attorneys. Our attorneys are skilled legal professionals with expertise in employment discrimination law and well-versed in getting our clients their desired results. Moreover, they are compassionate and will prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout the whole process.
Learn How a Los Angeles Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorney Can Help
If you have been discriminated against in your workplace or are currently experiencing harassment due to your sexual orientation, we may be able to help. You don’t have to suffer in silence; there are legal options available to you. Our attorneys are ready to stand by your side in demanding the equality and respect you deserve. Our track record speaks volumes regarding our commitment to diversity and inclusion for all people.
Take the first step in advocating for your rights by reaching out to us. Schedule a free consultation with one of our Los Angeles sexual orientation discrimination attorneys by calling (310) 956-4054 or filling out our contact form.