Legal Question in Discrimination Law in Pennsylvania

Sexual Orientation Discrimination

Ok, I've heard that in PA sexual orientation doesnt count under discrimination but I thought I'd put it out there anyway. basically i've been working in a restaurant for almost 4 yrs(started when i was 16), for the past 3 yrs everything was fine until recently we got a new GM and shes very christian. I was good friends with her for the longest time we would talk constantly until a few months ago when someone told her I was gay. since then her and a couple other employees have made comments about me, my lifestyle, bringing up religion etc.. she has made comments about me to other employees, made jokes, stopped talking to me, and as time went on other coworkers that are friends of hers stopped talking to me as well. there are several examples but unfortunately i dont have the room or the time to type them in here. i also have a few coworkers that have heard things and brought them to my attention. rumors have been spread, things have been told to customers and it has basically made me feel like crap walking in there scared to think what was going to be said or done next. I recently told my gm i was going to put my 2 weeks in and a few days after that i was fired from my job. I'm not sure what to do, is there anyone with advice


Asked on 5/17/07, 7:30 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Sexual Orientation Discrimination

You asked about discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Wrong question, her issue isn't with your sexual orientation but rather based on her religious beliefs. The fact that you don't follow practices accepted by her religion may make you part of a protected class, those persons not in her religion.

This sounds like it will be a good case for hostile work environment, sexual harassment with the basis of religious discrimination. You could try filing claims with the authorities regarding EEOC complaints. But you really need to speak with an attorney pronto regarding your rights and responsibilities.

People may dislike lawyers generally, but at times like this you need one to help you preserve your rights and to promote the rights of others similarly situated.

Regards,

Roger

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Answered on 5/18/07, 2:57 pm


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