Sexual Orientation Discrimination Attorneys in Minneapolis

At Nichols Kaster, PLLP, we believe that all workers, regardless of their sexual orientation, deserve to be treated fairly. Our firm prides itself on advancing these rights and is here to help if you believe you are being treated unfairly at work because of your sexual orientation.

Under the landmark decision in the 2020 case, Bostock v. Clayton County, discrimination against an individual based on their sexual orientation or transgender status is prohibited as a form of unlawful sex discrimination and thus a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII).

However, some employers might be exempt from Title VII, which only applies to:

• Private-sector employers with 15 or more employees
• State and local government employers with 15 or more employees
• The federal government as an employer
• Unions and employment agencies

Title VII also allows “religious organizations” and “religious educational institutions” to hire and employ people who share their particular religious beliefs. Courts can apply a “ministerial exception” that bars certain employment discrimination claims by the employees working for religious institutions, because those employees perform vital religious duties at the core of the mission of the religious institution.

What Is Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

Sexual orientation discrimination refers to harassment or differential treatment based on someone’s perceived or actual gay, lesbian, bisexual, or heterosexual orientation. Title VII and the Minnesota Human Rights Act include a broad range of protections for LGBTQ+ employees when it comes to hiring; firing; promotions; demotions; discipline; training; pay; assignments; and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

Common examples of sexual orientation discrimination in the workplace include:

• Refusing to hire, denying a promotion, or firing an individual because they are gay, lesbian, bisexual, heterosexual, or transgender, or because the employer perceives them to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, heterosexual, or transgender.
• Denying an individual or group the same health insurance or other benefits that are available to employees of other sexual orientations.
• An employee’s boss or co-workers constantly make fun of, harass, or treat the employee badly because they are gay, lesbian, bisexual, heterosexual, or transgender.
• An employer refuses to allow an employee to discuss their sexual orientation while at work

Our Firm Proudly Fights Discrimination Across the Country

The lawyers at Nichols Kaster, PLLP are zealous advocates who are committed to advocating for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. We believe that our legal team’s skill and professionalism are just as important as our ability to connect with every client we represent.

Call (877) 344-4628 or contact us online to discuss the details of your case. Please don’t hesitate to request your free case consultation if you are facing discrimination at work.