Safety and Non-discrimination

Residents of Pennsylvania are covered in a patchwork fashion by local and existing federal laws. Because of Supreme Court precedent, employment discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation is prohibited nationwide, and thus regardless of local law you can pursue claims through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Pennsylvania has laws prohibiting “sex” discrimination in employment and housing, which the current state administration interprets to cover orientation and gender identity as well; for that reason, you can pursue claims through the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission as well.

However, you may also have recourse on the basis of local laws. The State College Borough prohibits both employment and housing discrimination. Similarly, Ferguson township has an ordinance prohibiting discrimination, and violations can be reported to the municipal manager.

Physical Safety Considerations

In the past, Penn State’s Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity has hosted de-escalation and self-defense trainings for students and trainings for faculty / staff.

The Student Committee for Defense and Solidarity has hosted self-defense trainings as well.

In general, State College is a safe place to live for queer people. While harassment does occur, this only rarely rises to the level of a threat to our physical safety. Generally speaking, sex-segregated spaces such as bathrooms within the State College borough and its immediate environs should be safe for trans people. Remain alert and exercise discretion in outlying areas, including Bellefonte and neighboring rural communities more generally.