Jonah Patel
A protected class is a group of people who share a common trait and are legally protected from being discriminated against on the basis of that trait. Protected traits include race, gender, age, disability, and veteran status. In the US, anti-discrimination laws are enforced by the Department of Justice and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In Canada, the term 'protected class' is used in connection with employees and employment and housing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age | 40 and older |
| Ancestry | |
| Colour | |
| Disability | Physical or mental |
| Ethnicity | |
| Gender | |
| Gender identity or expression | |
| Genetic information | |
| HIV/AIDS status | |
| Military status | |
| National origin | |
| Pregnancy | |
| Race | |
| Religion | |
| Sex | |
| Sexual orientation | |
| Veteran status |
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What You'll Learn
Race
A protected class is a group of people who share a common trait and are legally protected from being discriminated against on the basis of that trait. Race is one such protected trait. This means that it is illegal to discriminate against someone on the basis of their race.
State laws also prohibit discrimination on the basis of race. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against those with physical or mental disabilities, regardless of their race. California has gone further than the federal government by extending protections to include discrimination on the basis of sexuality.
It is important to note that the definition of race can vary depending on the context and jurisdiction. In the United States, race is often defined in terms of skin colour or ancestry. However, the concept of race is complex and can be influenced by social, cultural, and political factors.
Overall, the designation of race as a protected class reflects a recognition of the historical and ongoing discrimination faced by racial minorities. By affording legal protection to individuals on the basis of their race, anti-discrimination laws aim to promote equality and prevent unfair treatment.
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Gender
A protected class is a group of people who share a common trait and are legally protected from being discriminated against on the basis of that trait. Protected traits include gender, race, age, disability, and veteran status.
Both men and women are members of a protected class because they can take legal action if they are discriminated against on the basis of their gender. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 (CRA) and subsequent federal laws and regulations prohibited discrimination against individuals or groups of individuals because of particular traits, including gender. The term "sex" has been interpreted to include discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
In the United States, the term "protected class" is frequently used in connection with employees and employment. For example, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, race, colour, religion, and national origin. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act prohibits discrimination against people who are 40 and older.
In addition to federal laws, some states have laws that extend protections beyond those provided by the federal government. For example, California has laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexuality.
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Age
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act is a federal law that protects individuals from being treated unfairly in the workplace due to their age. This law applies to both employees and job applicants, ensuring that they are evaluated based on their skills and qualifications rather than their age.
Additionally, age discrimination laws may vary across different states, with some states providing additional protections beyond federal laws. For example, California has extended protections that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexuality, going beyond the federal guidelines.
By recognising age as a protected class, these laws aim to promote equal opportunities and fair treatment for individuals of all ages, ensuring that age is not a barrier to accessing employment, housing, or other areas of life.
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Disability
A protected class is a group of people who share a common trait and are legally protected from being discriminated against on the basis of that trait. Protected traits include race, gender, age, disability, and veteran status.
The definition of disability can vary depending on the specific law or context, but it generally refers to a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This can include conditions such as blindness, deafness, mobility impairments, intellectual disabilities, mental health conditions, and more. It is important to note that the presence of a disability does not necessarily mean that an individual will experience discrimination. However, the legal protection provided by the designation of disability as a protected class aims to prevent and address any potential discrimination or disadvantage that individuals with disabilities may face.
In addition to federal laws, some states, such as California, have enacted their own laws that provide additional protections for people with disabilities. These laws may prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in areas such as education, transportation, or healthcare. By recognising disability as a protected class, these laws aim to promote equal opportunities and ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of society.
Overall, the designation of disability as a protected class is a crucial step towards ensuring equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities. By prohibiting discrimination and providing legal protections, societies can work towards creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all.
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Veteran status
A protected class is a group of people who share a common trait and are legally protected from being discriminated against on the basis of that trait. Protected traits include race, gender, age, disability, and veteran status.
Veterans are protected under federal law, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent federal laws and regulations. These laws prohibit discrimination against individuals or groups of individuals because of particular traits, such as race, gender, and veteran status. The U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission are responsible for enforcing these anti-discrimination laws.
In addition to federal law, some states have their own laws that provide additional protections for veterans. For example, California has laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexuality, which includes protection for veterans who may face discrimination because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
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Frequently asked questions
A protected class is a group of people sharing a common trait who are legally protected from being discriminated against on the basis of that trait.
Protected traits include race, gender, age, disability, and veteran status.
Anti-discrimination laws include the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Anti-discrimination laws in the United States are enforced by the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Yes, everyone is a member of at least one protected class, and it is possible to be a member of multiple protected classes. For example, a pregnant woman might be protected on the basis of sex, marital status, or both.
