What are the protected classes under the state and federal discrimination laws?

The California Civil Rights Department enforces laws protecting applicants, employees and unpaid interns from illegal discrimination and harassment in employment based the following protected characteristics:

• Age, for people 40 and older;
• Color;
• Genetic information/characteristics;
• Marital status;
• Medical condition (including cancer or record or history of cancer) or AIDS/HIV status;
• Mental or physical disability;
• National origin and ancestry, including:
• Language use restrictions; and
• Holding a driver's license granted under Vehicle Code section 12081.9 (issued to persons unable to prove their presence in the United States is authorized under federal law).
• Pregnancy and perceived pregnancy;
• Race (including traits associated with race, including but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles, such as braids, locks, and twists);
• Religion;
• Sex/Gender, including:
• Pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions;
• Gender identity or gender expression, this includes transgender status and those who are transitioning or have transitioned; and
• Sexual stereotypes.
• Sexual orientation;
• Reproductive health decision-making; and
• Veteran or military status.

Independent contractors and volunteers are also protected from harassment.

Federal discrimination laws protect against discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex (including payment of wages), national origin, individuals with disabilities and veterans.

Read more about Discrimination in the HR Library.