We do not choose our gender or sexual orientation any more than we choose the color of our eyes, our height, or our race. These traits are part of our makeup, and part of who we are. Yet, throughout history, they are the basis of discrimination. This discrimination happens in the workplace, in housing, in job opportunities, and in education. It is generally a product of fear and a lack of awareness on the part of others. Sometimes it is done out of malice. Even when based on “religious freedom,” it is abhorrent. Many of these same arguments were made to try and defend segregation on the basis of race. They were unacceptable then, and are unacceptable now. Regardless of how and why it happens, it is wrong. Generally speaking, it is illegal. 

Title VII of the United States Code protects us against such discrimination on the national level. Many communities, such as Jacksonville, have local laws banning such discrimination.