Discriminatory harassment is harassment based on protected characteristics?

• A. It is harassment based on protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, age, etc.
• B. It is harassment not based on protected characteristics
• C. It is not prohibited
• D. It is only allowed if consent is given

Answer: (A)

Discriminatory harassment means treating someone differently or targeting them specifically because they have a protected characteristic—categories like race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or other protected traits. Because the harassment is tied to these protected traits, it falls under anti-discrimination rules and is typically illegal in workplaces, housing, schools, and public services. Harassment that isn’t based on protected characteristics isn’t the same concept, though it can still be inappropriate or forbidden under other policies. Consent does not make this behavior permissible; laws protect individuals regardless of any agreement to participate. So, the understanding that discriminatory harassment is based on protected characteristics is the correct interpretation.