equal protection

Equal protection is a legal principle that ensures all individuals are treated fairly under the law, regardless of characteristics like race, gender, or background. It means that laws and government actions should not discriminate or favor certain groups unjustly. This principle, part of the Constitution, aims to promote fairness and prevent unequal treatment, ensuring everyone has the same rights and protections under the law. It is a core idea behind many civil rights laws and court decisions, helping to create a more just and equitable society.