However, while the standards of liability are identical, there is a major difference in the coverage of the two provisions. Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin.However, according to the Comcast ruling, the standard applied in Title VII cases is no longer the model for determining Section 1981 claims. Title VII and Section 1981 prohibit employers from retaliating against employees because they have engaged in statutorily protected activity. §1981 (Section 1981) creates a federal cause of action for individuals claiming intentional racial discrimination. All persons, including whites, may bring actions alleging race discrimination pursuant to. Title VII and Section 1981 prohibit employers from retaliating against employees because they have engaged in statutorily protected activity. 1053, set out as a note under section 2000e-4 of this title. Analysis of why the same standard of proof should be ap plied to section 1981 claims and Title VII claims. Second Circuit Holds "Hispanic" Is a Race Under Section 1981 and Title VII.