The Lawyer Monthly – July 2019 cover feature “Pride Yourself at Work” offers a comprehensive look at workplace protections for LGBT+ employees, highlighting both federal and local legal frameworks that shield individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The article explains how Title VII of the Civil Rights Act—which prohibits discrimination “on the basis of sex”—has been interpreted to cover LGBT+ workers, and contrasts that with the broader protections under the New York City Human Rights Law, which explicitly recognizes sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics. It outlines actions that may constitute unlawful harassment or discrimination, including offensive jokes, slurs, and exclusion from opportunities, and emphasizes that employees are never required to disclose private information about their identities. The piece also offers practical guidance for employers on fostering inclusivity and respectful workplaces, and encourages affected employees to seek legal counsel when their rights are violated.
