Which of the following is a protected category under Equal Opportunity (EO)?

• A. Marital Status
• B. Race
• C. Employment Status
• D. Aging

Answer: (B)

Race is considered a protected category under Equal Opportunity (EO) laws and regulations. This category is explicitly included in various federal laws, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination in employment and other areas based on race, color, national origin, sex, and religion. The protection of individuals from discrimination on the basis of race aims to promote a fair and equitable work environment, ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities regardless of their racial background.

Other options like marital status and employment status are not universally recognized as protected categories under EO laws. While certain jurisdictions may have specific regulations regarding marital status, it is not broadly protected at the federal level like race is. Aging, while it refers to age discrimination, usually is more specifically protected under different laws, such as the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which generally applies to individuals over a certain age rather than as a broad EO category. Thus, race stands out as the correct answer due to its explicit protection under established EO laws.