In the United States, hate and bias crimes include crimes that are committed against:

a. People of minority religious affiliation only
b. People of minority sexual orientation, identity, and/or gender identity only
c. Any protected category as defined by hate crime statutes
d. People of minority racial/ethnic status only

c. Any protected category as defined by hate crime statutes

The correct answer is c. Any protected category as defined by hate crime statutes.

To get the answer, we need to understand the definition of hate and bias crimes in the United States. Hate and bias crimes are criminal offenses that are motivated by prejudice or bias towards a particular group of people based on their protected characteristics such as race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or ethnicity.

Hate crime statutes in the United States typically cover all protected categories. These protected categories include, but are not limited to, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and ethnicity. Therefore, hate and bias crimes can be committed against individuals from any of these categories.

It is important to note that hate crime laws and definitions may vary between states or jurisdictions, but generally, protected categories cover a broad range of characteristics to ensure comprehensive protection against hate and bias crimes.

c. Any protected category as defined by hate crime statutes.

Hate and bias crimes in the United States can involve acts committed against any individual or group based on their protected characteristics. These protected categories are defined by hate crime statutes or laws and typically include race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability. Therefore, hate crimes can occur against people of minority religious affiliation, people of minority sexual orientation, identity, and/or gender identity, people of minority racial/ethnic status, and other protected categories. It is important to note that the specific protected categories covered by hate crime laws may vary by jurisdiction.