Final answer:
The role of a protected class in hiring decisions is to ensure individuals are considered based on their qualifications and merit, without any preferential or discriminatory treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
What best describes the role of a protected class in hiring decisions is that they are considered based on merit, which corresponds to the answer (c) They are considered based on merit. Protected classes should not be given preferential or adverse treatment in hiring decisions according to anti-discrimination laws. These laws ensure fairness and equality in the hiring process by prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability. Employers are to focus on the qualifications of an applicant rather than factors that are unrelated to job performance. If an applicant believes they have been discriminated against, they are encouraged to contact the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
It is crucial that hiring decisions do not impact individuals negatively because they belong to a protected class. Instead, the focus should be on equal opportunity and assessing individuals based on their qualifications and the merit of their work and experiences.