Which of the following is a racial characteristic that is protected from being used as a basis for employment decisions under federal EEO laws?

In the context of federal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws, various characteristics are protected from discrimination in employment decisions. The correct answer reflects that all listed characteristics—age, religion, and gender—are part of the broader category of attributes that cannot be used as a basis for discrimination during hiring, promotions, and other employment practices.

Age is protected under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, which prohibits discrimination against individuals 40 years of age and older. Religion is safeguarded under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which makes it illegal to discriminate based on an individual’s religious beliefs or practices. Gender, also protected under Title VII, ensures that individuals are not discriminated against based on their sex.

By choosing "All of the other answers are correct," it acknowledges that each option is a valid characteristic that falls under federal protections, thereby reinforcing the principle that discrimination based on these attributes is illegal in the workplace. This holistic view underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion in employment practices.