Which of the following is NOT considered a protected class under unlawful workplace harassment laws?

Unlawful workplace harassment laws are designed to protect individuals from discrimination and harassment based on specific characteristics that have been historically marginalized or that warrant protection under federal, state, and local laws.

The correct answer highlights that employment status is not recognized as a protected class under these laws. This means that an individual's job status—whether they are employed, unemployed, or in a temporary position—does not offer them any specific legal protections against harassment. In contrast, characteristics such as age (specifically age 40 or above), race, and political affiliation are acknowledged as protected classes.

Harassment laws typically focus on preventing discrimination based on inherent attributes or identity-related factors that are essential to individual dignity and equality in the workplace. Employment status does not fall into these categories, hence it does not receive the same level of protection.