LGBTQ-FAQs

Does LGBTQ community have the right to free speech?

LGBTQ community exercise protected First Amendment speech and expression by saying or acting in ways that confirm their identities. The First Amendment not only protects that speech, but it also prohibits the government from enacting laws or regulations that may “chill” that speech, i.e., policies that cause LGBT people to self-censor their speech and expression about their sexual orientation or gender identity in order to avoid negative treatment.

Can an employer discriminate against me based on my sexual orientation or gender identity?

Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibits employers with 15 or more workers from discriminating based on sex. Some courts have determined that Title VII prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. The Supreme Court has declared that it will take up this issue in three instances. In addition, many states and towns have laws prohibiting this type of discrimination.

Can my landlord refuse to rent to me?

Most landlords are prohibited from discriminating against women under the federal Fair Housing Act, and the Supreme Court ruled in 2020 (Bostock v. Clayton County) that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity constituted sex discrimination as well. Thus, the Fair Housing Act forbids discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Are LGBTQ people protected from discrimination in public places, like stores and restaurants?

There is no federal legislation prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in public places such as restaurants, theaters, and other enterprises. However, the state and municipal laws where you reside may prohibit this type of discrimination.

Are LGBTQ pupils safe from prejudice in school?

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits public schools from discriminating on the basis of sex, and the Supreme Court ruled in 2020 (Bostock v. Clayton County) that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity constitutes sex discrimination. Thus, Title IX outlaws discrimination against students based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Reference:

• U.S Department of State
• U.S Department of Labor

Note: The information provided is sourced from various websites and collected data; if discrepancies are identified, kindly reach out to us through comments for prompt correction.

LGBTQ is a popular abbreviation for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community. The phrase LGBTQ refers to both sexual orientation (LGB) and gender identity (T). However, it is occasionally used as an umbrella word for anyone who does not identify as straight (heterosexual) or cisgender.

Key Takeaways

• LGBTQ includes people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer.
• They deserve equal rights and treatment.
• LGBTQ individuals should be free from discrimination and prejudice.
• Their identities are valid and should be always respected.
• LGBTQ rights advocate for acceptance and inclusion in society.