LEGAL PROTECTION FOR LGBTQ+ EMPLOYEES ​

California law is clear and sweeping in its protection of LGBTQ+ employees from discrimination because of gender identity, sexual orientation, or due to the employer’s assumptions about the employee’s gender identity or sexual orientation.
The law, Gov’t. Code Sec. 12940, also protects against harassment based on sexual orientation or marital status and requires employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment from occurring, even when that harassment comes from third parties.
The Civil Rights Department (CRD) has jurisdiction over complaints of
employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. CRD
investigates discrimination complaints and can help parties resolves their disputes without resorting to a lengthy and expensive litigation process. In limited cases, CRD may pursue litigation on behalf of an employee who has filed a discrimination complaint.

​No Cost, Compassionate Emotional Support
Support Specialists are ready to help you deal with difficult emotions and help develop healthy methods of coping.

Common Challenges LGBTQ+ Students Face

LGBTQ students have a significant presence on college campuses. In 2018, an Association of American Universities survey of over 180,000 university students found that 16.9% of students identify as non-heterosexual. While many colleges try to make their campuses welcoming to LGBTQ students, their success rate varies. If you’re a prospective college student who identifies as LGBTQ+, it’s important that you research schools to make sure they’ve created a supportive environment.  In this guide, you’ll learn how to research colleges and review additional topics such as the unique challenges LGBTQ students face and the resources and legal rights available to them.

LGBTQIA+ Senior Housing Options

Seniors face various challenges as they age. Finding senior housing that provides safety, as well as assistance or medical services as needed, is a difficult process for any senior. But for those who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community, such as those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex and asexual, exploring senior living options often means encountering discrimination and, at times, harassment as a result of their sexual preference. 

Senior Living For LGBTQIA+ Adults

Discrimination due to gender or sexual preference can make it difficult to find a senior living option where they feel safe, accepted and well cared for.

​In this guide, we discuss housing rights for LGBTQIA+ seniors, common challenges faced by elderly members of this community, and how their loved ones can find safe, comfortable senior housing. It also includes lists of resources where seniors can seek help. ​