The first step in the process is filing an inquiry of discrimination with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission.

Inquiries may be submitted by individuals who believe they experienced discrimination based on a protected class in a covered area such as housing, employment, education, public accommodations, or credit.

The inquiry should include information about:

• The individual or organization involved
• The type of discrimination that occurred
• The protected class involved
• When and where the incident occurred

After an inquiry is filed, the Commission conducts an initial review to determine whether the inquiry falls within its jurisdiction.

This review considers whether the inquiry involves:

• A protected class
• A covered area such as housing, employment, education, public accommodations, or credit

If the inquiry falls within the Commission’s jurisdiction, the case may move forward in the process.

If the inquiry moves forward, the Commission may conduct an investigation. A complaint becomes formalized only after a Charge of Discrimination has been prepared and signed by the complainant.

During the investigation, staff may gather information from the parties involved. This may include:

• Written statements
• Documents or records
• Interviews with individuals who may have relevant information

The investigation helps determine whether there is evidence of discrimination.

In some cases, the parties involved may have the opportunity to participate in mediation.

Mediation is a voluntary process in which both parties work with a neutral mediator to try to resolve the dispute.

If an agreement is reached, the case may be resolved without further proceedings.

After the investigation is completed, the Commission reviews the information gathered and makes a determination based on the evidence.

This determination may address whether there is reasonable cause to believe discrimination occurred.

Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the case may proceed through additional steps such as:

• Settlement discussions
• Administrative hearings
• Other legal proceedings

Each case is evaluated based on its individual circumstances.