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Same-sex marriage may be legal in all 50 states, but there are still people throughout the country who discriminate against those whose sexual orientation is different from their own. As a result, individual states and even local municipalities have adopted laws to protect people of all orientations in the workplace. These statutes prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, which is harassing or treating employees differently because of their real or perceived sexual orientation. Here, the legal team at Honolulu’s Charles H. Brower Law Corporation in Honolulu explains what workers should know about such laws in the state of Hawaii. 

On Sexual Orientation

Hawaii is one of more than 20 states that expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in private industry. Under section 378-2 of the Hawaii Employment Practices Act, it is unlawful to discriminate against an employee for his or her sexual orientation. These employment protections were added to the books in 1991 and extended to include housing in 2005 and public accommodations in 2006. 

On Gender Identity 

discriminationIn 2011, the Hawaii statutes prohibiting discrimination in employment were updated to outlaw harassment on the basis of gender identity. Gender identity refers to an individual’s perception of his or her gender, which may or may not correspond with his or her anatomy.

Although fewer states expressly prohibit discrimination in the workplace based on gender identity, Hawaii remains one of them. Additionally, courts in other states often interpret federal statutes banning discrimination on the basis of sex to include gender identity as a protected category. 

If you feel you have been the victim of workplace discrimination because of your sexuality—or for any other reason—turn to Charles H. Brower Law Corporation to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Located in Honolulu, this firm focuses solely on employment law, workers’ compensation, and personal injury law. This allows them to provide the most comprehensive counsel possible and to stay up-to-date on all the latest regulations and precedents that might affect clients. To request an initial consultation, visit their website or call (808) 526-2688. 

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