No one should be treated differently on the job because of who they are or who they love. Yet many LGBTQ+ employees in North Carolina still face discrimination, harassment, and unequal treatment in the workplace.
If you identify as LGBTQ+ and have experienced mistreatment at work, you may be wondering: What protections do I have under the law? The answer is evolving — but recent legal decisions have strengthened your rights.
Let’s break down what you need to know about LGBTQ+ workplace protections in North Carolina 🧑⚖️👇
⚖️ Federal Law Protects LGBTQ+ Workers
In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Bostock v. Clayton County that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964protects employees from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
✅ That means it’s illegal under federal law for an employer to:
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Fire you for being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender
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Refuse to hire you because of your identity
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Deny promotions, benefits, or opportunities based on your sexual orientation or gender
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Create a hostile work environment based on anti-LGBTQ+ bias
Even though North Carolina does not have comprehensive state-level LGBTQ+ protections, this federal ruling applies to all NC workplaces with 15 or more employees.
🧾 Examples of LGBTQ+ Workplace Discrimination
Discrimination can take many forms. Some examples include:
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🗣️ Harassing comments or slurs from coworkers or supervisors
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🚫 Being passed over for a promotion because you’re openly LGBTQ+
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🚻 Not being allowed to use restrooms that align with your gender identity
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📉 Being fired or demoted after coming out
If you’ve experienced any of these situations, it may be illegal — and you have the right to take action.
🏛️ What About State & Local Protections in NC?
North Carolina does not currently have a statewide non-discrimination law protecting LGBTQ+ workers.
However, some cities and counties (like Durham, Chapel Hill, and Asheville) have passed local ordinances that expand protections in public employment or contracting.
👉 But regardless of local laws, the federal protections still apply across the entire state.
💼 What to Do If You’ve Been Discriminated Against
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, here’s what to do:
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📝 Document everything – Keep emails, texts, or notes of incidents
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📢 Report internally – Use HR or your company’s complaint process
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📄 File a charge – You may need to file a complaint with the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission)
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👨⚖️ Speak with an attorney – A lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your rights
👊 Burts Law, PLLC Fights for LGBTQ+ Workers
At Burts Law, PLLC, we believe everyone deserves a safe, fair workplace — free from discrimination. If you’ve faced injustice on the job, we’ll help you understand your rights, build your case, and fight for the accountability you deserve. 🌈
📞 Ready to Stand Up Against Discrimination?
You don’t have to face this alone. If you were fired, harassed, or treated unfairly because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, we’re here to help.
📱 Call (866) BURTS-LAW or visit 🌐 www.burtslaw-sc.com to schedule your confidential consultation.
