To discriminate means to treat those people in some way differently than other people who are not in the same class. Discrimination is the unfair or prejudicial treatment of people and groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, or sexual orientation.Discrimination based on sexual orientation exists in the City of Los Angeles. Such discrimination foments strife, unrest and discord. Protected characteristics are attributes employers cannot discriminate against, such as age, race, gender, religion, disability and national origin. Discrimination can happen on purpose or accidentally. Discrimination laws in the California workplace are supposed to protect employees from unfair treatment, especially when it comes to hiring and firing. Discrimination based on sexual orientation exists in the City of Los Angeles. Such discrimination foments strife, unrest and discord. What are protected classes under federal discrimination laws?