Are employers prohibited from discriminating based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity?

Yes, employers in North Carolina are prohibited from discriminating based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. This kind of employment discrimination is outlawed under the state’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1973, which prohibits employers from discriminating against a person based on certain characteristics, such as race, color, national origin, religion, sex, handicap, age, and political beliefs. This law also makes it illegal to discriminate against employees or potential employees based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This means employers cannot deny employees a job or promotion because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, nor can they treat them differently or less favorably than other employees. Furthermore, employers cannot harass an employee because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. While the North Carolina Emancipation Proclamation doesn’t provide specific protections for transgender individuals, the state’s judiciary has recognized that its protections do extend to discrimination based on a person’s gender identity. So, while employers are not prohibited from discriminating based on gender identity explicitly, they can be held liable for discrimination based on gender identity in a court of law. Overall, North Carolina has clear laws that prohibit employers from discriminating against individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This offers protections to individuals and is a reminder that everyone deserves to be treated fairly and respectfully regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

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