Sex discrimination involves treating someone (a job applicant or employee) unfavorably because of that person's sex. Sex discrimination is a form of employment discrimination that violates federal law—including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. §2000e).

In addition to these federal laws, states also have laws against sex discrimination in employment. These state laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the labor code or employment-related statutes.

Discrimination against an individual because of gender identity—including transgender status or sexual orientation—is discrimination because of sex in violation of Title VII.

The law forbids discrimination when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, fringe benefits, and any other term or condition of employment.

For the regulations related to sex discrimination, see the Code of Federal Regulations, beginning with 29 CFR 1604.1.

In Indiana, sex discrimination in employment is prohibited under both federal and state law. Federally, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal to discriminate based on sex in any aspect of employment, which includes hiring, firing, pay, promotions, and other terms and conditions of employment. This federal protection has been interpreted to include discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. At the state level, the Indiana Civil Rights Law (IC 22-9-1) also prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sex. This law is enforced by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, which investigates complaints of discrimination in employment. Both federal and state laws work in tandem to provide a legal framework that protects individuals from sex discrimination in the workplace. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint with the appropriate agency or seek legal recourse through the courts.