All proposals to the Gay & Lesbian Fund must include a board-approved copy of the organization’s nondiscrimination policy which is inclusive of both sexual orientation and gender expression as protected classes.
The following formats are the only acceptable documents for proof of a nondiscrimination policy that has the approval of your board of directors:
- Policy text is on organization’s letterhead and is signed by board chair or executive director.
- Copy of policy text in organization’s bylaws, employee manual, or other official source. Please include copy of relevant pages and highlight the policy text.
Sample Nondiscrimination Policy
If your organization does not have a nondiscrimination policy, or would like to update or enhance an existing nondiscrimination policy, we have provided a sample template below for your consideration.
This policy states [Organization Name]’s position on discrimination. This policy applies to all [Organization Name] employees, volunteers, members, clients, and contractors.
[Organization Name] follows an equal opportunity employment policy and employs personnel without regard to race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, age, height, weight, disability status, veteran status, military obligations, and marital status.
This policy also applies to internal promotions, training, opportunities for advancement, terminations, outside vendors, members and customers, service clients, use of contractors and consultants, and dealings with the general public.
The following statements are not acceptable:
- We do not “unlawfully” discriminate with regard to race, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, etc.
- In accordance with federal, state and local laws, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, etc.
These statements are not acceptable because both reference laws that do not presently exist on a federal level. Since there are no federal laws that provide equal employment protections for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people, these statements void the equal opportunity employment clause.
Keep nondiscrimination statements broad by not listing specific numbered state or federal ordinances or laws as these may change. Also, make sure the policy will be enforceable on a national level, even if you are currently only a local or statewide organization with limited scope.
