Anti-LGBT Discrimination
Fewer than a third of all U.S. states have laws protecting people from discrimination based on sexual orientation, and only a handful prohibit discrimination based on a person’s gender identity or expression. There are no federal protections for LGBT civil rights.
New England has been a leader in the journey toward LGBT civil rights. Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont all have laws prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. Non-discrimination laws in Maine, Rhode Island, and Vermont also prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or expression.
In Your State
Specific laws can vary greatly from state to state. For more information, please visit a state page:
GLAD’s Work On This Issue
While New England has been a leader in the journey toward LGBT civil rights, having the laws is only half the battle. No legislation ever made discrimination disappear. GLAD's precedent-setting litigation is where the legal rubber meets the road—changing laws, changing attitudes, and changing lives.
From the Docket
Patino v. Birken Manufacturing Co.
GLAD and the Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association (CELA) applaud a May 4, 2012 ruling from the Connecticut Supreme Court that employers can be… More →
Legislative Advocacy
Statement by Attorney Vickie Henry Before The Massachusetts Commission on GLBT Youth
GLAD presented testimony June 20 before the MA Commission on GLBT Youth panel addressing the needs of youth across the state. Here is an excerpt… More →
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