IN · Civil Rights & Disputes

Civil Rights & Disputes in Indiana

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Indiana Law

Indiana Civil Rights Law — IC 22-9-1 et seq.

Indiana's Civil Rights Law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, and status as a veteran. Indiana does not have explicit statewide protections for sexual orientation or gender identity.

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Procedural Details in Indiana

Indiana's Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) investigates employment, housing, education, and public accommodations discrimination complaints. Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act. Indiana covers employers with 6 or more employees. Indiana does not have statewide protections for sexual orientation, gender identity, or age in private employment (age discrimination relies on the federal ADEA). Indiana does not have an anti-SLAPP statute. The defamation statute of limitations in Indiana is two years under IC 34-11-2-4. Indiana courts apply the "impact rule" for negligent infliction of emotional distress, generally requiring physical impact to the plaintiff's body.

Indiana Agencies & Resources

Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC)

State agency investigating discrimination complaints in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations.

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EEOC Indianapolis District Office

Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for Indiana workers.

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Indiana State Bar Association — Lawyer Referral

Referral service for civil rights and employment discrimination attorneys in Indiana.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Indiana have statewide protections for LGBTQ+ individuals?

Indiana's Civil Rights Law does not include sexual orientation or gender identity as protected classes. Some Indiana cities have local ordinances (Indianapolis's Equality Ordinance). Federal law (Title VII after Bostock) may provide employment protections.

How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Indiana?

Complaints must be filed with the Indiana Civil Rights Commission within 180 days of the discriminatory act. This is the shorter window that applies when the state is not a "deferral state" with a 300-day extended deadline for all charge types.

Does Indiana have an anti-SLAPP statute?

No. Indiana does not have an anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants cannot seek early dismissal with automatic fee-shifting; standard motion practice applies.

What is the defamation statute of limitations in Indiana?

Defamation claims in Indiana must be filed within two years under IC 34-11-2-4.

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By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026