Does the D.C. Human Rights Act Prohibit Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation?
Yes. The D.C. Human Rights Act prohibits termination, suspension, demotion, failure to hire, and harassment of individuals based on their sexual orientation. It also protects those individuals who are discriminated against because of their gender identity or expression, regardless of the individual’s assigned sex at birth. The D.C. Human Rights Act differs from Title VII in that it applies to all employers regardless of size. Employees who believe they have suffered discrimination based on sexual orientation must file a complaint within one year of the date on which the adverse action was taken against the employee. The D.C. Human Rights Act does not have a damages cap and authorizes reinstatement, back pay, and compensatory damages. Sexual Orientation Discrimination in Maryland Under Maryland law, employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees based upon sexual orientation. An employee who suffers from discrimination can file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on
