Which federal law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin?

The selected answer is indeed Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which is a landmark piece of legislation that prohibits employment discrimination. This law specifically makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate against employees or applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The significance of Title VII lies in its broad scope, which covers various aspects of employment practices, including hiring, firing, promotions, compensation, and other employment terms and conditions.

This law not only aims to protect individuals from discriminatory practices in the workplace but also fosters an environment of equality and opportunity for all employees, thereby promoting diversity and inclusion within organizations. It established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which is responsible for enforcing federal laws against employment discrimination.

In contrast, the Americans with Disabilities Act focuses on prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities, the Equal Pay Act addresses wage disparity based on sex, and the Fair Labor Standards Act mainly deals with minimum wage and overtime pay regulations. Each of these laws has its own specific focus, but Title VII is uniquely comprehensive in targeting the broader issue of discrimination based on fundamental personal characteristics.