Sexual orientation discrimination involves treating an employee differently solely because of their sexual orientation, whether lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning, asexual and many other terms (such as non-binary and pansexual) (LGBTIQA+). The New York City LGBTIQA+ discrimination attorneys of Risman & Risman, P.C. are well versed in the laws that prohibit sexual orientation discrimination and can provide you with the requisite knowledge in deciding whether to go forward with a prospective claim.
A growing number of New York laws prohibit discrimination against individuals based on sexual orientation, or perceived sexual orientation, in various aspects of the employment process, including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, firing, promotions, benefits, compensation, job training, job assignments, and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment.
It is not relevant whether your employer’s perception of your sexual orientation is correct. If your employer believes or perceives you as having a certain sexual orientation, and treats you differently or discriminates against you because of it, then your employer may be violating the law. If such an issue exists for you, then you should contact a sexual orientation discrimination attorney right away in order to preserve your rights.
Understanding the laws which make sexual orientation discrimination illegal in New York
The Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA): Passed in 2002, this law makes New York one of the few states in the country to prohibit sexual orientation discrimination. The law treats this kind of discrimination much the same as discrimination against other protected classes, such as age and gender, have been treated for decades.
The New York City Human Rights Law: This city ordinance also prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity on an even more expansive basis, and gives transgender employees in New York City some of the strongest protections in the country.
Contact a Seasoned and Qualified Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorney
If you believe that you or someone close to you is being discriminated against at work because of sexual orientation, you should be aware that the laws in New York exist to protect you from this unlawful discrimination. The experienced LGBTIQA+ attorneys of Risman & Risman, P.C. are eager to discuss your concerns with respect to a possible instance of sexual orientation discrimination. There is no charge for the consultation. Please feel free to call us at (212) 233-6400 or contact us online.
