What constitutes a legal violation under the Civil Rights Act of 1974?

The Civil Rights Act of 1974 expands upon the protections established in previous civil rights legislation by specifically addressing discrimination based on sex in both housing and employment contexts. This means that if an individual is treated unfairly or denied rights due to their gender, it represents a legal violation under this act.

The inclusion of sex discrimination in both domains signifies a broadening of protections for individuals, highlighting the importance of equality across various aspects of life, including both workplace environments and residential opportunities. This is key to understanding the significance of the Act, as it seeks to eliminate barriers that inhibit individuals based on their gender.

In contrast, the other options presented focus on narrow aspects or specific categories of discrimination. For instance, gender or sex discrimination in employment only would overlook critical protections in housing, and discrimination based on religious beliefs or economic background fails to encompass the wider implications regarding sex discrimination established by the Act. Thus, the recognition of sex discrimination in housing and employment is foundational in understanding the comprehensive nature of legal protections under the Civil Rights Act of 1974.