Legal Definitions - Minority

Definition: A group of people who are smaller in number or have less power or influence compared to the rest of the population.

Examples:

• People of color in the United States are considered a minority because they make up a smaller percentage of the population compared to white people.
• Women are considered a minority in many industries because they are underrepresented and have less power and influence compared to men.

The examples illustrate how a minority group is defined by their smaller numbers or lack of power and influence compared to the majority. This can lead to discrimination and unequal treatment, which is why civil rights and affirmative action policies are often put in place to address these issues.