Legal Definitions - sexual orientation

Sexual orientation refers to a person's natural attraction to others. It is the way a person feels romantically or sexually attracted to others. There are three main sexual orientations:

• Heterosexuality: attraction to people of the opposite gender
• Homosexuality: attraction to people of the same gender
• Bisexuality: attraction to people of both genders

For example, a person who is attracted to people of the opposite gender is heterosexual. A person who is attracted to people of the same gender is homosexual. A person who is attracted to both genders is bisexual.

It is important to note that sexual orientation is not a choice. It is a natural part of who a person is. People should be treated with respect and dignity regardless of their sexual orientation.

Some countries have laws that protect people from discriminationbased on their sexual orientation. For example, in the United States, some states have laws that protect people from being fired from their job or denied housing because of their sexual orientation.