For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
CONCILIATION. Attempted resolution of issues raised by a complainant through informal means not involving court process.
DISCRIMINATION. Any difference in treatment based on a protected class as defined herein.
EMPLOYER. Any person employing one or more persons within Wake County and any person acting in the interest of an employer, directly or indirectly, including an employment agency. EMPLOYER shall include Wake County and any Wake County Contractor.
GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION. Having or being perceived as having gender-related identity, expression, appearance, or behavior, whether or not that identity, expression, appearance, or behavior is different from that traditionally associated with the sex assigned to that individual at birth.
PERSON. A natural person, a corporation, company, partnership, firm, association or other entity with a separate legal existence.
PROTECTED CLASS. Race, natural hair or hairstyles, ethnicity, creed, color, sex, pregnancy, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, National Guard or veteran status, religious belief or non-belief, age or disability.
PROTECTED HAIRSTYLE. Any hairstyle, hair type, or hair texture historically associated with race such as, but not limited to, braids, locks, twists, tight coils or curls, cornrows, Bantu knots and afros.
PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION. Any place, facility, store or other establishment which supplies accommodations, goods or services to the public or which solicits or accepts the patronage or trade of the general public. A PUBLIC ACCOMMODATION shall not include a religious organization and all of the activities of the religious organization, or a non-profit fraternal or social organization which restricts use of facilities and services to members and their guests.
RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION. A church, mosque, synagogue, temple, non-denominational ministry, faith-based mission or faith-based entity that is primarily devoted to the study, practice or advancement of religion.
(Ord. passed 10-18-2021)