A protected class can be described as individuals or groups covered under federal or state anti-discrimination law. These include but are not limited to: Women, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, American Indians/Alaska Natives, Asians, Native Hawaiians/Other Pacific Islanders, other groups related to National Origin, people over the age of 40, disabled, religious groups as well as Veterans.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is a federal anti-discrimination legislation that was established over 40 years ago. It states that employers should not make employment decisions based on an applicant's: race, age, color, military/veteran status, sex, ethnicity, religion or disability status.

Employment decisions must be job related and nothing more. In a court of law, ignorance or a lack of knowledge is not a defense.