Types of Discrimination Covered by EEO Laws

Race
An individual is treated differently than others of a different race.

Color
Discrimination that occurs when a person is discriminated against based on the lightness, darkness, or other color characteristic of their skin.

National Origin
Denial of equal employment opportunity because of an individuals' or their ancestor's country of origin or because an individual has the physical, cultural, or linguistic characteristics of a particular national origin group.

Sex
Discrimination occurs when individuals are treated adversely because of their male or female gender.

Religion
Discrimination based on an individual's religious observances and practices as well as belief.

Age
Discrimination against individuals 40 years of age or older and are treated unfavorably in the terms and conditions of employment because of their age.

Disability
Discrimination on the basis of mental and/or physical disability.

Reprisal
Discriminatory or retaliatory acts against those who file EEO complaints, or who has participated in any stage of the administrative or judicial proceddings concerning a complaint of discrimination.

Genetic Information
Under Title II of GINA, it is illegal to discriminate against employees or applicants because of genetic information.