Harassment in the workplace occurs across various types of industries and takes on many different forms. A diner in Voorhees, New Jersey recently agreed to a $20,000 settlement payment to resolve an employee’s complaint of workplace harassment related to his sexual orientation. The employee, who is gay, worked at the restaurant for about two years. During that time, he continually endured name-calling and other examples of a hostile, homophobic work environment. According to the complaint, the harassment was so severe that he had no choice but to resign from his position.
When announcing that the court sided with the employee, the New Jersey Attorney General noted that people have a right to do the jobs they were hired to do without being subjected to verbal abuse. He went on to say that the courts take this issue seriously and will hold accountable any employer who engages in or tolerates such harassment. Members of the LGBTQ community have long endured intolerance and harassment. Many have felt it necessary to conceal their sexual orientation in the workplace to avoid intimidation and protect their careers. There are still many states that do not have specific laws prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. However, even in those states, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 may be used to defend members of the LGBTQ community who experience discrimination based on their sexual identity.
If you or someone you know in the LGBTQ community experienced harassment in the workplace due to their sexual orientation, you do not have to remain silent. The Philadelphia LGBTQ discrimination lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. will stand up for you and your rights. Contact us online or call us at 215-569-1999 for a free consultation today. From our offices in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we represent clients throughout Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and South Jersey.
