Which civil rights act prohibits discrimination in public accommodations and employment?

• A. Civil Rights Act of 1964
• B. Voting Rights Act of 1965
• C. Civil Rights Act of 1957
• D. Fair Housing Act

Answer: (A)

Discrimination in public accommodations and employment is prohibited by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This law makes it illegal to refuse service in places like restaurants, hotels, theaters, and other public venues because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It also bars employers from making hiring, firing, or promotion decisions based on those same characteristics. The act created strong federal enforcement mechanisms, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to handle workplace discrimination complaints. The other acts address different issues: the Voting Rights Act protects the right to vote; the Civil Rights Act of 1957 focused on voting rights and federal enforcement; the Fair Housing Act targets discrimination in housing.