What We Do
The Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) enforces state civil rights laws in specific areas.
Our job is to investigate discrimination complaints, educate the public, and help Indiana residents understand their rights and responsibilities under the law.
We work closely with the United States Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to eradicate illegal discrimination within the state of Indiana through public education and enforcement of state and federal anti-discrimination law.
Our Jurisdiction (Where We Have Authority)
ICRC can only investigate complaints that fall under Indiana’s civil rights laws.
We can investigate discrimination in the areas of:
- Employment
- Housing
- Public Accommodations
- Education
- Credit
If a complaint falls outside these areas, ICRC does not have the legal authority to investigate. In those cases, we will help direct the individual to the right agency or resource.
Why Jurisdiction Matters
Many people come to ICRC with concerns that are very real, but not always covered by Indiana civil rights law.
If that happens, we will:
- Explain why we do not have jurisdiction
- Provide other resources or agencies that may be able to help
- Offer education or guidance when possible
This ensures Hoosiers get the right help from the right place, even if it is not ICRC.
How the Enforcement Process Works:
- Filing a complaint:
Individuals may file a complaint:
- Online
- By phone
- By email
- In person
- At ICRC events
Deadlines to file:
- Housing: Within 1 year of the alleged discrimination
- Employment: Within 180 days of the alleged discrimination
- Mediation:
Mediation is a voluntary process that allows both sides to work with a trained, neutral mediator to resolve the issue early.
It is free and confidential.
Many cases settle here.
- Investigation:
If the complaint cannot be resolved through mediation, ICRC begins a full investigation.
During this stage, investigators may:
- Interview the parties
- Request documents
- Speak with witnesses
- Conduct site visits if needed
Investigations are meant to be objective, timely, and fair.
- Determination:
After reviewing the evidence, ICRC issues a written determination stating whether the facts show discrimination occurred.
- Notification:
You will receive the determination in writing along with information on what next steps may be available under the law.