LGBTQ+ Rights

The ACLU works to ensure equal treatment and equal dignity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. For example, we are working to safeguard marriage equality, ensure fair treatment of LGBTQ+ families, and end discrimination in the workplace.

LGBTQ Rights.

The ACLU works to ensure equal treatment and equal dignity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. For example, we are working to safeguard marriage equality, ensure fair treatment of LGBTQ+ families, and end discrimination in the workplace.

The Latest

Resource
A collage image depicting the LGBTQIA+ flag and an overlay of the statue of liberty.

LGBTQ+ Advocacy Resource Hub

Wherever and whenever governments have tried to enforce rules around gender, there have been people like us defying them. Regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity, you have guaranteed rights under the U.S. Constitution and D.C. Law. Understanding your rights and preparing for potential changes to the law are critical steps toward protecting yourself and your community.
Press Release
A collage featuring hands holding microphones, symbolizing media and press coverage. In the background, there is a large government building and a fragment of the U.S. Constitution with the words “We the People.” The design uses a red and beige color scheme with layered geometric shapes.

D.C. Corrections Officer Wins Half-Million-Dollar Settlement Over Anti-Gay Hostile Workplace at D.C. Department of Corrections

After four years of litigation, a veteran D.C. corrections officer today settled a lawsuit challenging anti-gay discriminatory and retaliatory conduct at the D.C. Department of Corrections.
Issue Areas: LGBTQ+ Rights, Disability Rights
Court Cases: Jones v. District of Columbia — Challenging the Hostile Anti-Gay Workplace Environment at the D.C. Department of Corrections
News & Commentary
A stylized graphic with a dark blue background featuring three overlapping red-tinted panels. The left panel shows the Statue of Liberty holding a torch. The center panel displays a handwritten sign that reads “DEMOCRACY STANDS” and “THE CONSTITUTION STANDS.” The right panel includes an image of Donald Trump.

A Year of Resistance in the Nation’s Capital: How D.C. Resisted the First Year of the Second Trump Administration

2025 has brought one emergency after another. But in this crisis, residents across D.C. fought for their rights and showed why the urgency of self-governance in D.C. is more important than ever.
Resource
A diverse group of young people march and hold protest signs reading “Education shapes our future,” “Stand for change,” “Every voice matters,” and “Empower the youth.” One person speaks through a megaphone. The image includes an artistic collage featuring the Statue of Liberty, the Washington, D.C. flag, and bold green geometric shapes against a dark blue background.

Know Your Rights At School In D.C.

You don’t lose your rights just because you enter a school!
Legislation
Jan 25, 2018

Bill 22-189, the “Drug-Related Nuisance Abatement Act of 2017"

This proposed amendment will only exacerbate the negative impact to communities of DC’s existing Nuisance Abatement Law, which is problematic in both its scope and enforcement.
Position: Problematic
Legislation
Dec 10, 2015

Bill 21-0444, the “Death Certificate Gender Identity Recognition Amendment Act of 2015”

The ACLU-DC champions transgender people’s right to be themselves.
Position: Support
Legislation
Nov 12, 2015

Bill 21-361, the “Youth Suicide Prevention and School Climate Survey Act of 2015”

ACLU-DC fully supports the intent of Bill 21-361 and believes in the importance of developing data-driven policies. However, we must be cognizant of the process used to collect this data and ensure the privacy of our students.
Position: Support