Which of the following is considered a protected class under the Fair Employment and Housing Act?

The correct answer is gender identity. Under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) in California, certain characteristics are classified as protected classes, which means that individuals cannot be discriminated against based on these traits in employment and housing situations. Gender identity is explicitly included in these protections, reflecting California's commitment to ensuring equal treatment and preventing discrimination against individuals regardless of their gender identity or expression.

Marital status, while it is relevant to certain forms of discrimination, is typically not classified as a protected category under FEHA. Political affiliation and occupational status do not fall under the protections established by FEHA either. The act specifically delineates protected classes to include factors such as race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability among others, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and equitably in both employment and housing contexts.