Law Library Articles

Top 10 Gender and Sex Discrimination Law Articles in the LegalMatch Law Library

Though we often use both terms interchangeably, gender and sex actually have two different meanings. Gender is a social construct while sex is biological. This means someone’s sex can be genetically defined, while gender revolves around how someone presents themselves to society and how society views them. This is also known as gender identity. Sexual orientation, on the other hand, is a quality that causes people to feel romantic attraction to people.

All these different categories, whether gender, sex, or sexual orientation, can all result in discriminatory actions against people who do not adhere to societal norms. Contrary to a common misconception, significant federal protections against discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation do exist.

To help you understand your rights, the LegalMatch Law Library has compiled a list of the Top 10 Articles on Gender and Sexual Discrimination Law.

1. Makeup Requirements in the Workplace

Workplace dress codes and makeup requirements are generally allowed, but they can become a form of illegal discrimination. Following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County, policies that apply different standards based on an employee’s sex or enforce gender stereotypes are vulnerable to legal challenges. This article will help you understand if a makeup or dress code policy is lawful in the modern workplace.

2. What Is Gender Harassment?

Gender harassment is a form of discrimination that targets someone for not conforming to gender stereotypes. It is different from sexual harassment, and this article explains those differences in detail. You can also find information on what to do if you are a victim. Read this article to learn more about your legal rights with regard to harassment.

3. Sex Discrimination and Private Clubs

Private clubs have more freedom than employers, but they are not completely immune to anti-discrimination laws. This article examines the legality of sex discrimination in private clubs. It also explains when a private club might be subject to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

4. Sex Discrimination: Grooming and Appearance Requirements

Employers have the right to set standards for grooming and appearance, but these rules cannot be discriminatory. This article looks at the boundary between acceptable policies and illegal sex discrimination, which includes rules that treat employees differently based on their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. It also discusses how courts are now judging a policy’s fairness.

5. Breastfeeding Discrimination Lawyers

Federal laws, including the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, protect an employee’s right to pump milk at work. This article explains the strong protections provided by federal and state laws for nursing mothers, including the right to reasonable break time and a private space. It also gives advice on what to do if your employer violates your rights.

6. Filing a Claim for Violation of the Equal Pay Act

The Equal Pay Act of 1963 requires equal pay for equal work. If you think you are being paid unfairly because of your gender, this article shows you how to file a claim. It also explains what kind of evidence you will need to prove your case.

7. Women’s Rights in the Workplace Laws

Several federal and state laws protect women’s rights in the workplace. This article gives an overview of these protections, which cover hiring, firing, promotions, and pay. It is a helpful resource for understanding all of your rights. Learn more about your legal options in this article.

8. Federal Sex Discrimination Law

Federal law offers strong protections against sex discrimination at work, which the Supreme Court has affirmed includes discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This article describes the main federal laws that forbid this kind of discrimination. It explains who is protected by these laws and what is considered a discriminatory action today.

9. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and Gender Discrimination

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency that enforces laws against workplace discrimination. This article explains the EEOC’s part in dealing with gender discrimination complaints. It also tells you how to file a charge with the EEOC and what the process involves.

10. The EEOC and Pregnancy

The EEOC enforces federal laws protecting pregnant workers, including the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). This article explains how the EEOC handles these cases and details the rights of pregnant workers, including the right to reasonable accommodations. It also advises on what to do if you believe you have been the victim of discrimination.