Sexual Orientation
Sexual orientation generally refers to a person who identifies as heterosexual, gay, lesbian, or bisexual.
Previous HUD charges and a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in employment (Bostock v. Clayton County) may provide guidance for protection for sexual orientation under the federal protection of gender (sex) – although additional court rulings may need to occur in this area for consistency across the country.
FHCCI Resources:
Government Guidance:
- Implementation of Executive Order 13988 on the Enforcement of the Fair Housing Act, HUD, February 11, 2021 (Rescinded September 17, 2025)
- Executive Order on Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation, January 20, 2021 (Rescinded January 21, 2025)
- Equal Access in Accordance with an Individual’s Gender Identity in Community Planning and Development Programs, HUD, September 21, 2016
- Final Rule on Equal Access to HUD Programs Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity, HUD, February 2, 2012
- Memo on Investigation of Complaints Regarding Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Gender Expression, HUD, June 15, 2010
General Information:
- Indianapolis/Marion County Ordinance (includes sexual orientation) (Chapter 581)
- In Indianapolis, complaints of discrimination due to sexual orientation can be filed with the Indianapolis Office of Equal Opportunity
Reports of Interest:
- First-Time Homebuyer Guide, LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance, 2022.
- An Estimate of Housing Discrimination Against Same-Sex Couples, U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development, June 2013
- Opening Doors: An Investigation of Barriers to Senior Housing for Same-Sex Couples, Equal Rights Center, February 24, 2014
- Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate and NAGLREP Release Findings from First-of-its-Kind National LGBT Study Dedicated to Homeownership, July 2015
- The State of Disabled LGBTQI+ People in 2024, Center for American Progress, July 15, 2025
