The efficacy of sexual orientation anti-discrimination legislation

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the limited body of research that focuses on the efficacy of sexual orientation anti-discrimination legislation in reducing discrimination.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews past research that documents overt and subtle forms of workplace discrimination against gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals and describes how legislation plays an important role in changing social norms and underlying attitudes.

Findings

Empirically demonstrates that legislation effectively can reduce discrimination.

Originality/value

Informs legislative debate and promotes the expansion and adoption of national, state, and local legislation on sexual orientation anti-discrimination legislation.

Citation

Hebl, M., Barron, L., Cox, C.B. and Corrington, A.R. (2016), "The efficacy of sexual orientation anti-discrimination legislation", Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Vol. 35 No. 7/8, pp. 449-466. https://doi.org/10.1108/EDI-07-2016-0060