The Indiana Democratic Party has established a code of conduct and formed an ethics committee aimed at addressing sexual harassment issues

Indianapolis, Indiana – On Thursday evening, the central committee of the Indiana Democratic Party approved a code of conduct and decided to establish an ethics committee. This decision comes just two weeks following allegations of sexual harassment against one of the state’s prominent Democrats.

“Our stance is that every workplace in the state must be devoid of any harassment and discrimination,” stated Chair Mike Schmuhl in a press release. According to Schmuhl, individuals making allegations of misconduct “deserve a fair and unbiased review of their complaint and should be safeguarded against any retaliation in their workplace.”

The regulations extend to all individuals associated with the party, including elected officials, candidates, volunteers, official members, staff, interns, and attendees at party events. The initiative aims to foster a culture of engagement, civic action, respect, inclusion, and safety among all Hoosiers participating in Democratic politics, as stated in the announcement.

The document addresses issues of bias, discrimination, and harassment, including dedicated sections on preventing sexual harassment, safeguarding against retaliation, and outlining disciplinary measures for offenders. The release outlined that this could encompass a written warning, censure, suspension, or a ban.

According to spokesman Sam Barloga, the party is in the process of revising its rules and will soon make the updated documents available online.

On Thursday, the central committee established an ethics committee tasked with overseeing reviews related to any breaches of the code of conduct. The announcement indicated that the panel’s structure begins with the selection of a chair and the establishment of a procedure for receiving and evaluating complaints. The group is set to present its recommendations to the central committee for consideration and subsequent action.

“The principles we uphold as the Democratic Party are crucial, and these measures represent significant advancements our party has implemented to enhance the reporting process for every member and affiliate,” Schmuhl stated.

The party will “offer enhanced leadership and resources” for upcoming campaigns statewide, ensuring that campaign leaders “recognize their role and responsibility to their staff as an employer.”

He recognized that he had been attentive to the suggestions and criticisms from party members in recent weeks.

Last month, forty women from the Democratic Party delivered a sharp letter to Schmuhl, charging party leadership with “consistently sweep(ing) these issues under the rug and allow(ing) perpetrators to remain in power,” which they argue puts women at risk.

Last month, The Indianapolis Star reported that three women have come forward with accusations against Minority Leader Sen. Greg Taylor, alleging sexual harassment that includes unwanted physical contact and the romantic pursuit of an intern. Taylor acknowledged the harassment in the article. He expressed regret for previous actions that “may have blurred the lines.”

On the very day the allegations became known, Taylor’s caucus chose to reelect him as their Senate leader. Since then, he has refrained from addressing reporters, focusing instead on condemning racism and outlining ambitious goals in his prepared statements at the ceremonial kickoff of the legislative session.

“Addressing this matter is of utmost importance to me, our party, our team, and our State Central Committee,” Schmuhl stated. “A party encompasses more than just an individual, and I am confident that our united efforts today represent progress towards a stronger future for our party.”