LGBT Discrimination

What the Law Says
If You Experience Discrimination
Attorneys & Resources
Transgender Discrimination

In 1982, Wisconsin made history when it became the first state in the country to ban sexual orientation-based discrimination. The law covers the workplace, housing, and public accommodations, such as restaurants and bars.

Wisconsin's civil rights laws mean that your boss cannot pass you over for a promotion simply because she found out that you are bisexual. When you look for an apartment, the law says you don't need to pretend that your boyfriend is merely your "roommate." And if you and your date hold hands during a romantic dinner at a restaurant, the law says a waiter cannot kick you
out.

Anti-gay discrimination can and does happen in Wisconsin despite civil rights laws, but these laws ensure that when discrimination occurs, that boss, landlord, or bar owner can be held accountable.

Unfortunately, state nondiscrimination laws do not explicitly cover transgender people. It is possible that some incidents of discrimination against transgender people could be prohibited under the state's ban on sex-based discrimination. Increasingly, state and local governments and private employers are adding "gender identity and expression" to existing nondiscrimination laws to clearly prohibit discrimination against transgender people. Currently in Wisconsin, only the City of Madison and Dane County include gender identity in their nondiscrimination ordinances/policies.

Disclaimer: This resource is designed to educate people generally about the law, but it is not legal advice. If legal advice is needed, contact an attorney.