Which of the following are considered "protected classes" under federal antidiscrimination law?

Protected classes under federal antidiscrimination law refer to specific groups of individuals who are legally safeguarded from discrimination in various areas, such as employment, housing, and access to services. The correct answer includes race, age, gender, and religion as protected characteristics.

Race is a fundamental category that has been historically recognized as a basis for discrimination, making it integral to antidiscrimination laws aimed at ensuring equal treatment. Gender is equally significant, offering protection against discrimination based on one’s sex or gender identity. Age, particularly for individuals over the age of 40, is safeguarded under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, ensuring that older adults are not discriminated against in the workplace. Religion also receives protection, preventing employers and institutions from discriminating against individuals based on their religious beliefs or practices.

By contrast, the other options contain categories that do not fully align with the classifications recognized by federal antidiscrimination law. For instance, income is not a protected class; while socioeconomic status can affect individuals' experiences, it does not fall under the same legal protections. Education level and job title are also not considered protected classes in the federal context.

Thus, the combination of race, age, gender, and religion in the correct response encapsulates the