Sexual orientation discrimination is an unfortunately prevalent problem in California workplaces. Despite state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, many employers continue to engage in discriminatory behavior, such as harassment, unequal pay, or wrongful termination.
If you have experienced discrimination based on your sexual orientation in the workplace, you have legal rights and protections under California law. At Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian, our California sexual orientation discrimination lawyers are dedicated to fighting against sexual orientation discrimination and helping our clients receive the justice they deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation at (833) 758-0785.
What is California Sexual Orientation Discrimination?
California Sexual Orientation Discrimination is when an employee is discriminated against or harassed at the workplace based on their sexual orientation. This type of discrimination can manifest in several ways, such as being subjected to derogatory comments or slurs, being denied promotions or raises, receiving unequal pay or benefits, being denied job opportunities, or even being terminated from employment. California law prohibits sexual orientation discrimination in employment under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). This law makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. Additionally, many local California jurisdictions have their own anti-discrimination ordinances that provide further protections to employees.
Examples of California Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Examples of California Sexual Orientation Discrimination can include:
- Derogatory comments or slurs based on a person’s sexual orientation.
- Unfair treatment in terms of hiring, promotions, or compensation because of a person’s sexual orientation.
- Refusal to hire someone or wrongful termination because of their sexual orientation.
- Creating a hostile work environment by subjecting someone to unwanted sexual advances or inappropriate sexual behavior based on their sexual orientation.
- Denial of benefits such as health care or other employee benefits to same-sex partners or spouses.
- Refusal to make reasonable accommodations for employees’ sexual orientation, such as denying time off for a same-sex wedding or not allowing employees to dress according to their gender identity.
Laws Against California Sexual Orientation Discrimination
One of the primary laws that protect employees from this type of discrimination is the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). This law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity. This includes discrimination in hiring, promotions, pay, and other terms and conditions of employment.
Additionally, the Unruh Civil Rights Act, California’s anti-discrimination law, prohibits businesses from discriminating against people on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity in all aspects of business operations, including employment. The California Labor Code also prohibits discrimination against employees on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
In addition to these state laws, several California cities and counties have their own anti-discrimination ordinances that provide additional protections against Sexual Orientation Discrimination in the workplace. These include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and many others.
Governing Agencies in California Sexual Orientation Discrimination Claims
In California, the primary agency that governs Sexual Orientation Discrimination in the workplace is the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). The DFEH is responsible for enforcing the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace.
The DFEH investigates complaints of Sexual Orientation Discrimination and can file lawsuits against employers who violate the law. The agency also provides education and outreach to employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities under the law.
Additionally, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency that enforces federal laws prohibiting Sexual Orientation Discrimination in the workplace, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The EEOC also has an office in California and works closely with the DFEH to investigate and prosecute cases of Sexual Orientation Discrimination.
If you have experienced Sexual Orientation Discrimination in the workplace, you may be able to file a complaint with either the DFEH or the EEOC, depending on the circumstances of your case. It is important to consult a California employment lawyer to know your options and to help navigate this process.
Contact our California Sexual Orientation Discrimination Lawyer Today
If you have experienced Sexual Orientation Discrimination in the workplace, you have legal rights and protections under California law. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees or job applicants based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, and there are several state and federal laws in place to enforce these protections. At Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian, our California sexual orientation discrimination lawyers can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the complaint process. While we know it may be a tough decision to decide whether to pursue legal action, we believe that individuals who fight for their rights are an integral part of creating a more inclusive and accepting workplace for all Californians. Contact us today for your free consultation.