[em-bee]

i don't quite agree. the law provides that being part of a protected group can not be used as a reason. that's enough. there is no need to prove a thought-crime. there is only need to prove that there is no justifiable reason for the action that lead to the discrimination, eg no justifiable reason to fire someone or to deny service. finding the real reason for the discrimination is not necessary

[trompetenaccoun]

So, saying "you can't be part of our group because you're not black" would be illegal in the US and the person could sue for damages?

Wanna see some examples proving the opposite? That is not how it works at all, what you describe is an example of equal legal rights, I already mentioned these laws are anti-equality. Anti constitutional even, not that many in the US seem to care.

[em-bee]

it depends on the purpose of the group. when it comes to employment or services to the public then yes. i don't see how that is anti-equality.