What is considered a "protected class" under federal discrimination laws?

A "protected class" under federal discrimination laws refers to groups of individuals who are shielded from discrimination based on certain characteristics. The definition includes attributes such as race, color, religion, sex, and national origin, as outlined in various federal statutes, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These laws are designed to promote equality and prevent unfair treatment in the workplace based on these attributes.

Recognizing individuals in these protected classes is essential for employers to ensure compliance with discrimination laws and to foster an inclusive workplace. The protection extends to hiring practices, promotions, job assignments, and other employment-related decisions, making it crucial for human resource professionals to understand the implications of these classifications.

In contrast, attributes such as professional certifications, job tenure, or job performance ratings do not constitute protected classes under federal law. While these factors may be relevant for various employment decisions, they do not fall under the discrimination protections established by federal statutes.