Indianapolis—The State of Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) and the Tippecanoe County Human Relations Commission (TCHRC) announced today a new partnership aimed at enhancing service for Hoosiers throughout the state.
The newly formalized agreement involves strategic collaborations that will enable the local agency to rely upon state resources to resolve discrimination claims in Tippecanoe County while continuing to mediate local disputes. Jamal L. Smith, Executive Director of the ICRC, applauded the partnership as an opportunity to allow a thriving local agency to continue its mission of providing community-focused service while utilizing state resources.
“I have been so impressed with the work done by the Tippecanoe County Human Relations Commission, the way they know their community, and the passion they bring to this often difficult charge,” said Smith. “We’ve ironed out a partnership that makes the most of available resources and improves our collective ability to efficiently and effectively protect the civil rights of individuals in this area.”
This marks a significant step in ensuring Tippecanoe County residents receive timely resolution to their claims of discrimination. This agreement, similar to the one formalized by the ICRC and the City of West Lafayette Human Relations Commission earlier this year, will strengthen and expand service to those most in need. Mike Piggot, chairperson of the TCHRC, sees equal benefit of the partnership.
“We see tremendous value in partnering with a state agency to provide educational opportunities to Tippecanoe County residents and to provide expertise, particularly with fair housing issues,” said Piggot. The partnership provides an additional tool for members of our local Human Relations Commissions to use in efforts to enhance social justice in Tippecanoe County.”
The Indiana Civil Rights Commission enforces the Indiana civil rights laws and provides education and services to the public in an effort to ensure equal opportunity for all Hoosiers and visitors to the State of Indiana. For more information on the Indiana Civil Rights Commission visit: www.in.gov/icrc.