Final answer:
The categories that are protected from discrimination by EEO laws are called protected classes. The EEOC enforces laws preventing discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, and disability. Strict legal standards apply to protect these classes from discrimination.The correct option is d.
Step-by-step explanation:
The categories based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, and disability that are protected from discrimination by Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws are called protected classes. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws to prevent discrimination in the workplace related to these classes. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent legislation were enacted to prevent discrimination and ensure equal treatment irrespective of these protected characteristics.
It is illegal for employers to make hiring, firing, or promotion decisions based on membership in any of these categories. Whether seeking to protect against discrimination due to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or age, policies must serve at least a rational basis or a compelling interest if they differentiate on these attributes. Discrimination on the basis of any protected class is subject to strict scrutiny by the courts due to the U.S.'s history of discrimination.