Civil rights generally refers to the law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, or religion. Discrimination occurs when a person’s rights are denied or interfered with on the basis of their membership in such a particular group or class.

Civil rights are distinct from civil liberties, such as the right to vote, freedom of speech, and other rights in the Bill of Rights (first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution).

Civil rights law includes the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, Fifteenth, and Twenty-Fourth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution—and federal statutes such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Civil Rights Act of 1968.

In North Dakota, civil rights are protected under both federal and state laws. Federal laws such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Civil Rights Act of 1968 provide broad protections against discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and age. These laws apply to various areas including employment, education, housing, and access to public accommodations. The Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution also plays a crucial role in protecting civil rights by ensuring equal protection under the law. North Dakota state statutes complement these federal protections and address discrimination in specific contexts, such as the North Dakota Human Rights Act and the North Dakota Fair Housing Act. These state laws prohibit discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, credit, and other areas, and are enforced by the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights. Individuals in North Dakota who believe their civil rights have been violated can seek remedies through both state and federal channels, and may consult with an attorney to explore their legal options.