What does the term "protected class" refer to?

The term "protected class" refers specifically to groups of individuals who are legally shielded from discrimination based on characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information, among others, under Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws. This designation is crucial in promoting fair treatment in the workplace and ensuring that individuals are not subjected to bias during hiring, promotions, or other employment practices.

Recognizing a group as a "protected class" under EEO laws entails acknowledging the historical and systemic disadvantages that members of these groups have faced, thus requiring legal protections to combat ongoing discrimination. This legal framework allows for grievances to be raised and addressed when individuals experience discrimination based on their protected status.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what a protected class is. Individuals facing voluntary employment changes do not relate to legal protections against discrimination. The term does not refer to all job applicants, as not every individual may belong to a protected class or experience discrimination. Lastly, the concept of top-performing employees is separate from the criteria that define protected classes, as it focuses on performance rather than legal protection under EEO frameworks.