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 Vermont, 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. Additionally, the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, Fifteenth, and Twenty-Fourth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution establish fundamental civil rights and protections against discrimination. Vermont state law also prohibits discrimination and is consistent with federal laws, often providing additional protections. For example, Vermont's Fair Employment Practices Act prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability. The Vermont Public Accommodations Act similarly prohibits discrimination in public accommodations. Vermont has a strong commitment to civil rights, and individuals who believe their rights have been violated may seek remedies through state agencies like the Vermont Human Rights Commission or through the courts with the assistance of an attorney.