Sexual Orientation Discrimination

As outlined in Appalachian's Equal Opportunity Policy it is the internal policy of the University to prohibit harassment on the basis of sexual orientation. Therefore, Appalachian State University prohibits discriminating against individuals - in hiring, firing, and other terms and conditions of employment as well as access to and the provision of educational programs, services and activities- because of their sexual orientation. This form of discrimination may be inadvertent or intentional, and it can be obvious or subtle; regardless, it is unacceptable at Appalachian.

Definitions of Sexual Orientation:

According to the American Psychological Association , "Sexual Orientation is an enduring emotional, romantic, sexual, or affectional attraction to another person. It is easily distinguished from other components of sexuality including biological sex, gender identity (the psychological sense of being male or female) and the social gender role (adherence to cultural norms for feminine and masculine behavior). Sexual orientation exists along a continuum that ranges from exclusive homosexuality to exclusive heterosexuality and includes various forms of bisexuality."

Examples of sexual orientation discrimination may include:

  • A student is not granted an educational opportunity because he is bisexual.
  • A supervisor refuses to alter a work schedule for an employee to accommodate his/her membership in or association with a GLBT organization or group , even when the schedule alteration would not impose an undue hardship on the unit or department.
  • A candidate is not offered a job because of her sexual orientation.
  • An employer permits employees to put down, demean, and ridicule an employee because of his sexual orientation.  

It is also unlawful to retaliate against an individual for opposing practices that discriminate based on sexual orientation or for filing a discrimination charge, testifying, or participating in any way in an investigation, proceeding, or litigation under university policy.

ASU Policies and Procedures Related to Sexual Orientation

Sexual Orientation Related Sites

All links listed on the Office of EDC website are provided as information only with no endorsement intended, implied or otherwise.  The content and perspectives presented in these linked sites are not necessarily those of the Office of EDC or Appalachian State University .