Finally, LGBTQ Americans from coast to coast have the employment protections that have long been deserved. Many states and localities, including Tucson, already had ordinances that outlawed employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. Unfortunately, legal protections in this country are still dependent on your zip code. Keep reading to learn about your LGBTQ legal protections around the country!
Here is some good news: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity is illegal. This falls under Federal Civil Rights Act (Title VII), which prohibits discrimination based on sex in employment. Most importantly, some states already had laws the explicitly prohibit discrimination in employment.
Do you know which states and how many? see answers below in question # 4
Some not-so-good news: Many states allow discrimination against LGBTQ citizens and for many reasons. Take the quiz and see how well you do. Please share with your friends, have discussions and maybe write to some politicians. We have definitely come a long way and we have a long way to go. In conclusion, equality should be everyone’s right as a citizen of the United States of America.
How many states have religious exemptions that permit private businesses to deny services to same-sex couples?
Currently, there are 2 states that have targeted “religious” exemptions that allow people to discriminate in the services they provide their customers. These offending states are Kansas and Mississippi. In addition, there are a few others considering proposals within their statehouse.
How many states have a State law that prohibits housing discrimination based on sexual orientation?
I was pleasantly surprised to learn that 22 states have laws in place that protect their LGBTQ citizens. Protections from discrimination in renting, eviction, and even buying a home! Unfortunately, that leaves the other 28 states where housing discrimination is still perfectly legal. Unfortunately, that does include our fair state of Arizona. Thankfully, these 5 cities do still have these protections: Phoenix, Tempe, Tucson, Sedona, and Winslow.
How many states allow conversion therapy?
This is the most depressing and disappointing category so far. More than half of the country (29 states and all 4 territories) still allow conversion therapy. In other words, they allow their most vulnerable citizens to be tortured. Are we living in a third-world country or are we in a dystopian future? Conversion therapy has proven to cause incredible damage to the individual in the following ways:
- 8.4x more likely to report having attempted suicide
- 5.9x more likely report high levels of depression
- 3.4x more likely to use illegal drugs
- 3.4x more likely to be at high risk of HIV and STDs
LGBTQ Legal Protection Information Courtesy of the Movement Advancement Project
Conversion Therapy Information Courtesy of GLAAD
Tony Ray Baker
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Tony Ray
(520) 631-TONY (8669)
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Tony Ray Baker, Realtor®: TonyRay@GayTucson.com
Licensed Real Estate agent in Tucson Arizona with RE/MAX Select
