This June 5, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision making it easier for people belonging to majority groups, such as whites or heterosexuals, to bring employment discrimination claims. The ruling is in response to the case of Marlean Ames, a heterosexual woman from Ohio who alleged that she was discriminated against in her workplace in favor of LGBTQ+ colleagues.
Previously, lower courts required majority plaintiffs to show “background circumstances” indicating an employer’s predisposition to discriminate against the majority, which imposed a higher burden of proof than for minority plaintiffs. The Supreme Court overturned this requirement, ruling that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects all individuals equally, regardless of their membership in a majority or minority group.
Ames case details
Marlean Ames worked at the Ohio Department of Youth Services since 2004.
In 2019, she applied for a promotion that went to a lesbian colleague who did not apply or interview.
Subsequently, Ames was demoted and her position was filled by a gay man.
Ames filed a lawsuit alleging discrimination based on his sexual orientation.
El fallo responde al caso de Marlean Ames
The lower courts dismissed his case, arguing that, as he was heterosexual, he had to provide additional evidence that his employer discriminated against people in his group.
The Supreme Court reversed this decision, allowing the Ames case to be reconsidered under equitable legal standards.
Implications for the Hispanic community
Buzzy
This decision has significant implications for the Hispanic community in the United States.
Although historically anti-discrimination laws have protected minorities, this ruling underscores:
That all individuals, regardless of their ethnic origin or sexual orientation, are entitled to equal treatment in the workplace.
For Hispanics in leadership positions or making hiring decisions:
It is crucial to review diversity and inclusion policies to ensure that they are not perceived as discriminatory towards other groups.
In addition, Hispanic employees should be informed that they have the same right to file discrimination claims, regardless of whether they belong to a majority or minority group.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
