What non-discrimination principles are included in member eligibility?

• A. The bylaws prohibit discrimination and ensure equal access to membership if eligible.
• B. Access is granted based on geographic region.
• C. Eligibility is determined by board discretion with no stated nondiscrimination.
• D. Membership is limited to certain professional backgrounds.

Answer: (A)

Non-discrimination in member eligibility means the organization guarantees equal opportunity to join for anyone who meets the defined criteria, and decisions about eligibility aren’t biased by protected characteristics. The best choice states that the bylaws prohibit discrimination and ensure equal access to membership if eligible, which directly embodies that principle. It shows that eligibility isn’t about excluding people based on unrelated factors and that once someone meets the criteria, they should be treated equally.

The other ideas undermine nondiscrimination. Basing access on geographic region creates unequal treatment tied to location, which isn’t aligned with equal opportunity. Leaving board decisions to discretion with no stated nondiscrimination opens the door to biased outcomes. Limiting membership to certain professional backgrounds excludes qualified individuals who don’t fit that narrow category, contradicting the idea of fair, open access.