LGBT rights in South Carolina

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LGBT rights in South Carolina refer to the legal and social status of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender in the state of South Carolina. The state has seen significant changes in the recognition and protection of LGBT rights over the years, although challenges remain.

Legal Status

Same-Sex Marriage

Same-sex marriage has been legal in South Carolina since November 20, 2014, following the decision in the case of Condon v. Haley. This ruling came after the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina found the state's ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, in line with the precedent set by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Bostic v. Schaefer.

Adoption and Parenting

Same-sex couples in South Carolina are permitted to adopt children. The state does not explicitly prohibit LGBT adoption, and following the legalization of same-sex marriage, married same-sex couples have the same adoption rights as opposite-sex couples.

Anti-Discrimination Protections

South Carolina does not have statewide laws that explicitly protect individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or public accommodations. However, some local jurisdictions, such as the city of Columbia, have enacted ordinances that provide such protections.

Hate Crimes

South Carolina does not have a hate crime law that includes protections based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Efforts to pass such legislation have been made but have not yet been successful.

Social Climate

The social climate for LGBT individuals in South Carolina varies. While there are supportive communities and organizations, such as SC Equality and We Are Family, there are also areas where LGBT individuals may face social stigma and discrimination.

Related Pages

• LGBT rights in the United States
• Same-sex marriage in the United States
• LGBT adoption in the United States
• Anti-discrimination law
• Hate crime laws in the United States

See Also

• Human rights in the United States
• Civil rights movement
• LGBT culture in the United States