Legal
ACLU of Louisiana
The ACLU of Louisiana has worked to advance and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the United States and the State of Louisiana since 1956. The ACLU also works to extend rights to segments of our population that have traditionally been denied their rights, including people of color; women; lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, and transgender people; prisoners; and people with disabilities. They are part of a nationwide network of affiliates that fights tirelessly in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.
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Guide to Handling LGBTQ+ Discrimination in the Workplace
This resource provides vital information about LGBTQ+ discrimination in the workplace, highlighting legal rights and protections for individuals facing discrimination. It outlines the various forms of discrimination, offers insights into workplace advocacy, and emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments. Empower yourself and your organization with knowledge to foster a workplace culture that champions equality and respect for all employees.
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Morgan Crowell is a Certified Paralegal specializing in transgender name changes, gender marker changes, and birth certificate amendments across all states. She is dedicated to making these services affordable for everyone. For more information, reviews, or to schedule a free consultation, visit her Facebook page or contact her directly at 504-239-4188.
Lambda Legal represents LGBTQ+ people and everyone living with HIV in the court of law and in the court of public opinion. Lambda Legal works to defend and expand protections for transgender and non-binary people of all ages.
TLDEF (Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund)
The Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund's Trans Health Project aims to ensure that all transgender and non-binary people can access the trans-related health care that they need.
Your Rights in Shreveport, Louisiana
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Adoption
LGBTQ+ individuals and same-sex couples can adopt in Louisiana, either jointly or through second-parent adoption of a partner’s child.
Anti-Discrimination
Shreveport’s 2014 ordinance prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity, although certain exemptions may apply. Additionally, in the 2020 Bostock v. Clayton County ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court held that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects LGBTQ workers from employment discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Gender-Affirming Care
Gender-affirming care remains legal for adults in Louisiana. However, a ban on such care for minors went into effect on January 1, 2024, with the exception of mental healthcare and therapy, which are still accessible regardless of parental permission.
Hate Crime Protections
While sexual orientation and gender identity are not explicitly covered in the state's hate crime law, federal protections extend to those targeted for gender identity.
Name and Gender Marker Changes
In Shreveport, name and gender marker changes are governed by Louisiana state law. Individuals seeking a name change must file a petition with the court; no publication is required. To change a gender marker on a birth certificate, a court order and proof of sex-reassignment surgery are required. For a driver’s license or state ID, a physician’s statement confirming a successful gender change is needed. While Shreveport has no specific local laws on these issues, the city supports individuals seeking to align their legal documents with their gender identity.
Religious Freedom
Louisiana has strong religious freedom laws that some businesses and organizations may use to claim exemptions from providing services or hiring LGBTQ+ people.
Same-Sex Marriages and Domestic Partnerships
Same-sex marriages are legally recognized in Louisiana, but the state does not recognize domestic partnerships.
Surrogacy
Louisiana law restricts surrogacy to married heterosexual couples, leaving other family-building options more limited for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
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Transgender Bathroom Policies
Louisiana does not have a statewide law requiring transgender individuals to use bathrooms that match their sex assigned at birth. Recent federal rulings have created uncertainty around LGBTQ+ protections, including restroom access, in various jurisdictions. Shreveport has not enacted specific local laws regarding bathroom access for transgender individuals, but the lack of state-level protections may pose challenges for those seeking to use restrooms that align with their gender identity.