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Under federal law, discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited. Additionally, many states and local jurisdictions have laws that offer extra protections against harassment and discrimination based on both perceived and actual sexual orientation. In these areas, such behavior can lead coworkers to face legal consequences, including potential hostile environment harassment lawsuits.

Harassment related to sexual orientation can foster a hostile and unsafe workplace, subjecting LGBTQ+ employees to unfair treatment, diminished self-esteem, decreased motivation, heightened stress, poorer mental health, and reduced career satisfaction and growth opportunities.

If not addressed, this behavior can also negatively impact the organization by reducing productivity, stifling innovation, and hindering performance, while increasing turnover, absenteeism, and legal liabilities.