Supreme Court Rules that Certain Businesses Can Refuse LGBTQ+ Customers
Photo by Christian Lue on Unsplash
On Friday, June 30th, the Supreme Court sided with Lorie Smith, the owner of 303 Creative, who penned a web page articulating her refusal to design websites for same-sex couples. Smith allegedly* engaged in discriminatory practices against members of the LGBTQ+ community, citing her religious obligations and right to free speech. This ruling, which prioritized the freedom of expression, introduces an array of complex implications concerning the First Amendment. It also prompts speculation on how this decision may impact the numerous existing laws aimed at safeguarding marginalized communities throughout the nation.
The ruling in favor of free speech, in this case, has sparked concerns about the potential implications for other laws protecting marginalized groups. It raises questions about the balance between religious freedom and anti-discrimination laws, and whether similar arguments could be used to undermine other protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized communities. The decision has ignited a broader debate about the limits of free speech and its potential impact on equality and civil rights.
It is frightening for me as a queer professional to learn that a company may refuse services to me because of my sexual orientation and gender identity. And it raises the larger question of whether they can refuse my employment for the same reason. It's difficult enough to navigate the world as a black person. When queer is added to the equation, the fight for equity becomes even more complicated. This decision sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the progress made in protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized communities, jeopardizing their access to services, employment, and equality.
The intersectionality of being both queer and a person of color adds another layer of complexity to the struggle for equality. It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive anti-discrimination laws that protect individuals from being denied basic rights and opportunities based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Such protections are crucial in ensuring a fair and inclusive society where everyone can thrive without fear of discrimination or exclusion. The fight for equity and justice must continue until all marginalized communities, including queer people of color, are truly seen, heard, and protected in every aspect of their lives.
So, what if non-religious people turned the tables and refused services to those who have religious obligations with which they disagree? Will we still have to work with people who don't value our lives or regard us as human beings? This decision has blown a hole in an already collapsing society. This inevitable resetting into the core of original american values will only get worse as more people feel comfortable wearing their bigotry on their sleeve. What protections will they take from us next?
The fight for a fair and inclusive society must continue until all marginalized communities, including queer people of color, are truly seen, heard, and protected. Refusing services based on religious disagreement jeopardizes this progress and undermines the core values of equality and justice. We must strive for unity and mutual respect, ensuring that no one's rights are taken away.
*Why Do Journalists Use Words Like ‘Claimed’ or ‘Allegedly’?
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