SCOTUS Victory: Employment Discrimination Banned Nationwide

Today, in a 6-3 opinion, the US Supreme Court recognized that federal employment discrimination laws apply to LGBTQ employees.

While Iowa law has included equal protections for LGBTQ employees since 2007, this Supreme Court ruling validates what we already knew to be true: that it is wrong to fire someone simply based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This is a truly groundbreaking decision. LGBTQ people will no longer have to calculate which state they can move to without being fired simply for being who they are. While we know the road to equality is long and difficult, this is clearly a step in the right direction.

We know our fight is not over. This ruling addresses employment only and does not tackle other essential protections such as housing, credit practices, and public accommodations. The US Senate needs to pass The Equality Act immediately to address these shortcomings in federal law.

Take some time to celebrate this win today. It is a rare victory in a month fraught with setbacks. Remember to also take some time, though, to contact your Senators and remind them that this is not over. Call Senator Charles Grassley at (202) 224-3744 and Senator Joni Ernst at (202) 224-3254 and tell them to take up the Equality Act.

Stay vigilant. Stay engaged. Stand proud.

Best,
One Iowa Staff