What does the term “protected class” refer to?

The term “protected class” refers to groups of people who are legally safeguarded from discrimination based on specific characteristics. These characteristics often include race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information. The concept is central to various laws and regulations designed to promote equal opportunity and prevent discrimination in the workplace and other areas of life, including housing and education.

Protected classes are established primarily under federal laws such as the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Understanding the definition of protected classes is crucial for employers, human resources professionals, and employees, as it outlines the legal framework that governs fair treatment in the workplace and the consequences of failing to comply with these protections.

In this context, while other options may seem relevant, they do not accurately capture the essence of what a "protected class" entails or its implications in employment law.