While the new policy does not implicitly prohibit job bias against transgenders, language in it mirrors that used in places that have done so. The key wording is the policy specifically prohibits discrimination based on "actual or perceived sexual orientation or identity." That wording is remarkably similar to language that was used in changing Minnesota law to include the TG community in law intended to protect minority civil rights.
Here is the language in the new policy, according to the International Conference on Transgender Law and Employment Policy:
"The Postal Service has completed a new policy that prohibits discrimination in the postal workplace based on sexual orientation or identity. PMG General Marvin Runyon issued the following statement about the policy:
"'The Postal SErvice is committed to ensuring a workplace that is free of discrimination and to fostering a climate in which all employees may participate, contribute and grow to their fullest. We recognize and value our diverse workforce and are committed to fair treatment of all employees.'
"Harassment and disparate treatment based on actual or perceived sexual orientation or identity will not be permitted or condoned in the Postal Service. This policy does not alter current standards of conduct and dress for postal employees. All Postal Service employees have the responsibility to support this policy and to take appropriate steps to ensure a workplace free of discrimination against any person based on his or her sexual orientation or identity."
Reacting to the Postal Service policy change, ICTLEP Executive Director, Phyllis Randolph Frye, said "I believe that the 'or identity' language along with the 'or perceived' language was probably designed to cover the transgender community.
"I believe this even more because of the care that was taken to mention that dress standards were not altered," Frye said.
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