What You Need to Know About the Equality Act of 2010

Posted by Alona in For the LadiesOct 28th, 2011 | no responses

One of the most important laws of the 21st century that protects minorities, Gay people and any individual who might be treated unfairly in the workplace is the Equality Act of 2010.

Consolidation of Previous Laws

Great Britain has been leading the way with anti-discrimination laws for decades thanks to laws like the Equal Pay Act of 1970, Sex Discrimination Act of 1975 and the Race Relations Act of 1976. As society advanced, these laws began to become outdated as the needs of citizens became more complex over the years. With the new legislation, the old laws have been consolidated into one easy to read format that provides the same, but more clearly defined protections across the board.

Everyone Is Protected

Under the Equality Act 2010, every citizen will receive equal protection no matter what their age is possible disabilities, gender, marriage situation, race, religion, sex or even their sexual orientation. Another great thing about this law is that women who are pregnant or planning on taking a maternity leave cannot be discriminated against either.

More Pressure on Employers

Thanks to the Equality Act 2010, employers can no longer ignore the special needs of disabled people and are now required to make adjustments in the workplace so disabled people can overcome any obstacles that they might currently face.

Opposition from the Catholic Church

In spite of the many positives that this law has brought to society, it’s faced stiff opposition from the Roman Catholic Church. Many Bishops in England feared possible prosecution under the new legislation since the church still refused to diversify the priesthood with married men, Gays, transsexual individuals or women. These objections by the church were dealt with by the government who released a statement saying that ministers of the church would be “covered” and not face prosecution because of their beliefs.