What constitutes a violation of Title VII?

Refusing to hire a qualified candidate based on race constitutes a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Title VII is designed to ensure that all individuals have equal opportunity in the workplace, and making employment decisions based on race directly undermines this principle.

In contrast, dismissing an employee for poor performance may be justified and is typically not a violation of Title VII unless it can be shown that the dismissal was influenced by discriminatory motives. Offering a mentorship program to certain employees does not violate Title VII as long as the selection criteria for the program are not discriminatory. Lastly, changing job descriptions for clarity is a procedural action that does not infringe on any of the rights protected under Title VII as long as the changes are made equitably and without discriminatory intent.