We advocate for state and federal non-discrimination laws, and litigate to ensure that religious beliefs cannot be used to justify acts of bias. While there is public support for making discrimination against gay people unlawful, we have more work to do to ensure that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity, can fully participate in civil society. The need for enduring attitudinal change underlies our strategic approach to advocacy, which combines litigation and lobbying with public education and grassroots organizing.
Ending Workplacing and Housing Discrimination - With marriage equality in the Mountain State, it’s time legislators provide housing, employment and public accommodation protections for LGBTQ+ West Virginians and stop legislating bathrooms and entertaining so-called “religious freedom” legislation. Now more than ever it is important that West Virginia has enumerated protections for sexual orientation and gender identity.
Protecting LGBTQ Students - We are also working in the school system to protect LGBTQ students from bullying and harassment. Most recently, we represented Michael Critchfield, a transgender high school student, who was bullied and harassed by his assistant principal in the boys' bathroom at Liberty High School in Harrison County. We are committed to fighting for the rights of every student, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation, to ensure a safe, supportive learning environment in school.
