Under the Virginia Fair Housing Law, which of the following is a protected class?

Race is a protected class under the Virginia Fair Housing Law. This law is designed to prevent discrimination in housing based on certain characteristics, which are recognized as inherent and unchangeable aspects of an individual’s identity. The inclusion of race as a protected class is critical, as it addresses historical inequalities and seeks to create equal opportunity in housing for all individuals, regardless of their racial background.

While other options may seem relevant, they are not recognized as protected classes under Virginia's Fair Housing Law. For instance, gender identity and marital status may receive protections under other laws but are not part of the protected classes specific to housing discrimination in Virginia. Occupation, too, is not a characteristic that is protected under this law, focusing instead on attributes such as race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status to ensure comprehensive protection against discriminatory practices in the housing market.