WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Supreme Court took a stand for freedom, justice, and equality today when it ruled that federal anti-discrimination laws protect gay and transgender employees. NOW Foundation was an amici in this case, which defended the rights of two employees who were fired for being gay, and another who came out as transgender.
The 6-3 ruling was joined by Justice Neil Gorsuch and Chief Justice John Roberts, who said that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination “because of sex” clearly includes LGBTQIA+ employees. Today’s ruling is a stunning victory for LGBTQIA+ persons and the NOW community of activists.
But even with today’s decision, Black LGBTQIA+ people still face disproportionate discrimination, violence, and hate. We must dismantle structural racism with legislation that helps remedy centuries of inequality and also addresses cultural barriers to progress.
We have taken a step forward and we celebrate this victory but we have much more work left to do, including urging our Senators to pass the Equality Act, so we can secure comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community.