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Glossary > Employment Law > Employment Rights > Harassment And Discrimination
Legal Disclaimers

Protected Class

Protected class refers to a group of individuals who are legally safeguarded against discrimination and harassment in the workplace based on certain characteristics.

Example #1

Examples of protected classes include race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information.

Misuse

Misuse of protected class status can occur when an employer discriminates against someone based on a protected characteristic, such as refusing to hire or promote someone because of their race or gender. It is crucial to protect against this misuse to ensure fair and equal treatment for all employees.

Benefits

Protecting individuals within these classes fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. For example, ensuring that employees are not discriminated against based on their age allows for a more balanced and fair workplace.

Conclusion

By recognizing and upholding the rights of protected classes, we advance equality, fairness, and respect in the workplace, aligning with CAP's mission to empower employees and uphold their rights.

Related Terms

DiscriminationHarassmentEqual Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Last Modified: 4/30/2024
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