What is the purpose of the Commerce Clause in relation to discrimination?

The purpose of the Commerce Clause, found in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, is crucial for understanding how Congress can legislate regarding discrimination. This clause gives Congress the power to regulate commerce among the states, which has been interpreted broadly to allow federal involvement in various economic activities, including those that affect public accommodations.

In the context of discrimination, the Commerce Clause has been foundational for landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This Act included provisions that outlawed discrimination in public accommodations, thereby enabling the federal government to intervene in state matters when local laws permitted discrimination that obstructed interstate commerce. By asserting that discrimination in public facilities could hinder the flow of commerce, Congress utilized the Commerce Clause to ensure equal access regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin, significantly advancing civil rights.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary purpose linked to discrimination. While regulating intrastate commerce is mentioned, it’s less about discrimination directly. Establishing trade agreements and providing a framework for interstate transportation, although relevant to commerce, does not address the significant aspect of combating discrimination in public accommodations directly linked to federal powers derived from the Commerce Clause.