The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments in a case involving an Ohio woman who claims she faced discrimination for being straight while working at the Ohio Department of Youth Services. Marlean Ames alleges that she was demoted and received a pay cut, which she believes violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Ames' case challenges the legal standard used by lower courts, which requires additional evidence from plaintiffs in majority groups to prove discrimination. Her attorney argues that this burden is unfair and that discrimination should be assessed equally for all individuals.
Ames, who started as an executive secretary in 2004, was promoted several times before being demoted in 2019. She claims that her supervisor, who is openly gay, favored LGBT colleagues over her. The federal government, through the U.S. solicitor general, supports Ames' argument, stating that the lower court's requirement has no basis in Title VII.
On the other hand, the Ohio Department of Youth Services contends that the 'background circumstances' rule is a valid method of analysis and not an additional burden on plaintiffs. The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case, with a ruling expected by June.
This case is significant as it could impact employment law and how discrimination cases are handled in the future. The hearing before the high court occurs amidst ongoing debates about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in both the federal and private sectors.
