Discrimination On The Basis Of Sexual Orientation

Discrimination in the workplace on the basis of sexual orientation occurs whenever an employee is treated differently or unfairly because of his or her sexual orientation. Such employees must be subjected to negative actions in the workplace:

• Not being hired
• Termination
• Retaliation
• Demotion
• Reassignment to inferior duties
• Denial of benefits

This definition also applies to the sexual orientation of people they are close to.

Fighting For The Rights Of Gay And Lesbian Workers

Sexual orientation is not protected by federal law the same way other protected groups (race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age and disability) are for private employers.

There is no statewide law prohibiting discrimination against nongovernmental employees on the basis of sexual orientation. The state does prohibit discrimination against state employees on the basis of sexual orientation, but not gender identity.

Meanwhile, a number of Ohio counties and cities have ordinances prohibiting sexual orientation discrimination. Columbus and Franklin County are among them.

The Columbus law protects all employees working for companies in the city from discrimination, including members of the LGBT community. Franklin County’s anti-discrimination ordinance protects county employees only.

If you live in Columbus and have been discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation, call the lawyers at Mowery Youell & Galeano, Ltd., to schedule a case evaluation. If you live in Franklin County and work for the county, we want to talk to you, too. Call 614-467-4923, or ask our attorneys any questions you have by email.