How is a protected class identified under employment discrimination law?

A protected class is a group of people who are legally protected from discrimination in the workplace. In Virginia, protected classes are identified by Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, the Virginia Human Rights Act, and the Virginia Values Act, among other laws. Under both Title VII and the Virginia Human Rights Act, the following classes are protected: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetics, and disability. The Virginia Values Act goes further to add gender identity and sexual orientation as protected classes. Each of these classes are protected from discrimination and/or harassment in terms of hiring, job assignments, promotion, pay and benefits, discipline, and termination. Employers cannot take any of these factors into account when making hiring or other personnel decisions. Employers are also prohibited from making offensive comments or conduct based on any of the protected classes. Employers who violate these laws are subject to legal action and significant penalties, including compensation for victims and potentially injunctive relief. It is important to remember that protected classes are not limited to the specific categories mentioned above, and employers should consult an employment law attorney in order to ensure full compliance.

Related FAQs

Are employers allowed to set different standards or expectations for employees based on their race?
What methods are used to prove discrimination in an employment discrimination case?
Are employers prohibited from discriminating against employees who are the victims of domestic violence?
Are employers allowed to terminate employees for engaging in union activities?
Are employers allowed to require job applicants to disclose their salary history?
Are employers allowed to set different standards or expectations for employees based on their age?
What is the relationship between Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and employment discrimination law?
Are employers prohibited from discriminating based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity?
Are employers allowed to require job applicants to take a physical or mental ability test?
Are employers allowed to ask job applicants questions about their age?

How is a protected class identified under employment discrimination law?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts