Why nitpick over what is clearly an example? But to indulge, prior to the Obergefell ruling, 31 U.S. states held statues banning same-sex unions. That was just 5 years ago.
--Protected-- These groups in USA have some subtle, hard to prove discrimination. If you're not in the group it's hard to even perceive and/or understand (it's why the issue is so hot-button).
Like all those prospect-hires who never got a call back - as they weren't "a cultural fit for our company" on record. But maybe (and heres the nearly impossible part to prove) the hiring manager didn't like them cause they /sounded gay/ or /was a bitch/.
Edit: you downvote cause you don't think it happens or because you don't like reading about how it happens?
It would be possible to say that one was not hired about all groups, including White Christian men. This happens a lot but no one talks about it for some reason.
E.g. we didn’t really feel that Mr. Ciswhitechristan was a great cultural fit because we are trying to foster a diverse and equitable workplace and we need more protected groups. /s
It's worth noting that all people are "protected". One should be careful there, because "protected characteristics" include race, color, gender, pregnancy, disability, and age if over 40. All people have race, color, and gender category; any person can experience disability; and if we live long enough we'll all be over 40. Not particularly disagreeing with your comment, just pointing out for those reading that you -- you -- have protected characteristics, legally, no matter who you are.