INDIANA CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION CHARGES BAR WITH VIOLATIONS OF CIVIL RIGHTS LAW
INDIANAPOLIS--The Deputy Director of the Indiana Civil Rights Commission has found
probable cause to believe that a Broadripple bar’s dress code is in violation of the
Indiana Civil Rights Law. The Notice of Finding, issued by the Deputy Director after an
investigation of the claims, argues that Landsharks’ dress code has the effect of
disproportionately excluding minority patrons relative to Caucasian patrons. The dress
code prohibits, among other things, gang attire, loose fitting pants, single-color t-shirts,
chains worn outside of one’s shirt and picks in one’s hair, attire arguably more prevalent
among members of particular minority populations. Relying on precedent from
employment discrimination cases, the Deputy Director’s position is that Landsharks
could implement policies with a less discriminatory impact to achieve its legitimate
business goals of ensuring a peaceful and fun atmosphere. If a settlement is not
reached, a public hearing will be held before an Administrative Law Judge, and a final
order will be issued by the seven-member Commission. (Commissioners are appointed
by the Governor.)
Indiana civil rights statutes prohibit discrimination in the areas of employment, real estate, public
accommodations, credit, and education on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, disability,
national origin, ancestry, and familial status (with respect to housing only). People who believe
they have been unlawfully discriminated against should contact the Indiana Civil Rights
Commission at (317) 232-2600, (800) 628-2909 or www.in.gov/icrc.
Joan T. Essex
Chief Financial Officer
Indiana Civil Rights Commission
100 North Senate Avenue, Room N103
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Ph: 317-232-2615
Fx: 317-234-6887
jessex@icrc.in.gov