LGBT Discrimination

Although sexual orientation and gender identity have no relationship to work performance, discrimination against LGBT workers is severe. According to research from UCLA’s Williams Institute, between 15% to 43% of lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender workers have experienced being fired, denied promotions or harassed.

In November 2013, the U.S. Senate passed the Employee Non-Discrimination Act, which would prohibit discrimination in the workplace based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Currently, 21 states and the District of Columbia prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and 18 states and the District of Columbia prohibit workplace discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression.

I closely monitor legislative and legal developments relating to LGBT workers and zealously advocate on behalf of gay, lesbian and transgender individuals in court in the context of harassment and discrimination cases involving the workplace and places of public accommodation.