What are the protected classes under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the protected classes specifically include race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. This landmark legislation is designed to prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of these characteristics, ensuring that individuals are not treated unfairly or denied opportunities based on inherent traits or beliefs.

The focus on these five categories is critical for promoting equal opportunity in the workplace. The law has played a significant role in advancing civil rights and addressing systemic discrimination. Organizations must be mindful of these protections when developing policies and conducting hiring practices to foster an inclusive work environment.

While other options address important issues such as age, disability, and marital status, these are covered under different laws. For instance, age discrimination is addressed by the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and disability discrimination falls under the Americans with Disabilities Act, not Title VII. Therefore, only the characteristics listed in the correct answer are recognized as protected classes under Title VII.