Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression
Federal & State Laws, Definitions & Resources
Students
Title IX prohibits harassing conduct that is of a sexual nature if it is unwelcome and denies or limits a student's ability to participate in or benefit from a school's program, regardless of whether the harassment is aimed at gay or lesbian students or is perpetrated by individuals of the same or opposite sex. Title IX does not address discrimination or other issues related to sexual orientation.
US Department of Justice: Types of Educational Opportunities Discrimination
The DOJ Civil Rights Division, Educational Opportunities Section addresses sex-based discrimination and harassment, including discrimination and harassment based on not conforming with gender stereotypes.
US Department of Education-Office for Civil Rights: Resources for LGBTQ student
Faculty & Staff
Although Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 does not explicitly include sexual orientation or gender identity, the EEOC and courts have said that sex discrimination includes discrimination based on an applicant or employee's gender identity or sexual orientation.
Campus Resources
- LGBT Equity Center: List of Campus Trans Resources
- Department of Resident Life: Housing Options and Assistance for LGBTQ Students
- University Career Center: LGBT Students
The Office of Diversity & Inclusion provides active oversight, coordination,
and evaluation of the University of Maryland’s equity, diversity and inclusion activities; manages and tracks implementation of the Strategic Plan for Diversity; and encourages and supports the efforts of units to achieve their diversity goals.