With all the talk about rights lately, it’s essential to know your rights as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Many members of this community have fought hard for the rights and protections they have today, and it’s important to know what they are. If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a quick rundown of some of the most important rights members of the LGBTQ+ community have in the United States.
1. The right to marry
The first and perhaps most important right members of the LGBTQ+ community have is the right to marry. In 2015, the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in the United States, and since then, members of the LGBTQ+ community have been able to marry just like anyone else. This right has been a long time coming, and it’s one that community members are very proud of.
But it’s important to note that not all members of the LGBTQ+ community have the same right to marry. For instance, transgender people may not be able to marry in states that don’t recognize their gender identity. And in some states, same-sex couples may not have the same protections as heterosexual couples regarding things like adoption and parenting rights.
Additionally, divorce can be a more complicated process for same-sex couples. If you’re in a same-sex relationship and considering divorce, it’s essential to consult with a same-sex divorce attorney to ensure your rights are protected.
So, while the right to marry is a significant step forward, there’s still more work to be done to ensure that all members of the LGBTQ+ community have equal rights when it comes to marriage. There are also other vital rights that members of the LGBTQ+ community have, which we’ll touch on next.
2. The right to serve in the military
Since 2011, members of the LGBTQ+ community have been able to serve openly in the United States military. Before that, community members were forced to serve in the closet, and many were discharged from the military simply for being gay. This changed with the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which allowed members of the LGBTQ+ community to serve openly and without fear of discrimination or discharge.
Since then, things have continued to change for the better. In 2016, the military lifted its ban on transgender people serving openly. This was a significant victory for the transgender community and has allowed many transgender people to serve their country with pride.
But it’s important to note that not all members of the LGBTQ+ community can serve openly. For instance, transgender people who have not had surgery to transition may not be able to serve. Additionally, members of the LGBTQ+ community who live in countries that don’t accept them may not be able to serve openly.
3. The right to protection from discrimination
Members of the LGBTQ+ community are protected from discrimination in many ways. In the United States, federal law prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, and sex. This means that members of the LGBTQ+ community can’t be fired from their job, denied housing, or denied service simply because of who they are.
Several state and local laws protect members of the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination. These laws vary from state to state, but they typically prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
So, if you live in a state that doesn’t have laws protecting LGBTQ+ people from discrimination, you may still be protected under federal law. Additionally, many companies have policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. So, if you’re ever the victim of discrimination, it’s essential to know your rights and take action.
4. The right to live free from violence
Members of the LGBTQ+ community have the right to live free from violence. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. In 2017, the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) released a report that found that members of the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to experience violence than members of the general population.
The report also found that transgender people, people of color, and young people are even more likely to experience violence. This is especially true for transgender women of color, who are at an increased risk of violence. If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, it’s essential to know your rights and take steps to stay safe. There are several resources available to help you do this, so don’t hesitate to seek out help if you need it.
Knowing your rights as a member of the LGBTQ+ community is essential. This guide has only touched on a few of the most important rights, but there are many more. If you’re ever the victim of discrimination or violence, it’s essential to know your rights and take action. Talk to an attorney, file a complaint, and don’t hesitate to seek out help if you need it. Remember, you’re not alone.