The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination in public accommodations and employment on the basis of which protected characteristics?

• A. Race, color, religion, sex, or national origin
• B. Gender identity and sexual orientation
• C. Age and disability only
• D. Income level and education

Answer: (A)

The statement tests which characteristics the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects in both public accommodations and employment. The act prohibits discrimination on five specific bases: race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. This means that hotels, restaurants, theaters, and other public facilities, as well as employers and their practices, cannot treat people differently because of those characteristics.

Gender identity and sexual orientation aren’t listed as protected categories in the 1964 text, although sex discrimination interpretations have evolved over time. Age and disability are protected by separate laws (Age Discrimination in Employment Act and Americans with Disabilities Act), not by the original provisions covering public accommodations and employment in this act. Income level and education are not protected characteristics under this statute.

So the correct option reflects the five enumerated bases in the Civil Rights Act of 1964: race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.