Illinois Department of Human Rights

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Illinois Department of Human Rights

The state agency that protects the right to live free from discrimination, in every aspect of life. bit.ly/m/IllinoisDHR

The Act prohibits discrimination because of the following protected classes: race, color, religion, s*x, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (with regard to employment), age (40 and over), marital status, familial status (with regard to housing), arrest record, physical and mental disability, military status, s*xual orientation, unfavorable discharge from military service, and order of p

rotection status. The law protects against retaliation resulting from someone's attempt to exercise their right to fair housing or enjoy their full housing accommodation.

07/26/2026

Yesterday, the IDHR team was proud to join the Chicago Disability Pride Parade as people filled the streets with joy, pride, and celebration, honoring the strength, resilience, and leadership of the disability community.

Today, on Disability Independence Day, we recognize the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—a landmark civil rights law that expanded opportunity and strengthened protections for people with disabilities.

The celebration and today’s observance remind us that while we’ve made meaningful progress, the work to advance accessibility, remove barriers, and protect disability rights continues. Together, we continue building an Illinois where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and thrive.

07/14/2026

You have rights. Illinois law protects you from discrimination based on immigration status, citizenship, or national origin.

Our Immigrant and Citizenship Rights Resources website helps you access guidance, protections, and pathways to support – all in one place. Whether you're looking for yourself or helping someone you care about, you're not alone.

Explore the resources at dhr.illinois.gov/immigrant-and-citizenship-rights.

06/30/2026

Earlier today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling in West Virginia v. BPJ, a case challenging state bans on transgender students participating in school sports activities. We want to be clear – this ruling does not change Illinois law or weaken the protections that exist for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals in our state.

All students in Illinois have the right to attend school in an environment free from discrimination and harassment on the basis of their gender identity. Schools in Illinois may not discriminate against a student because of their gender-related identity, including treating them differently because their gender-related identity does not align with their designated s*x at birth.

To read our full statement and access additional resources, visit bit.ly/transathletesprotections.

06/29/2026

Illinois has Pride. And yesterday, more than one million people reminded us what that looks like. 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️

Families, friends, neighbors, and allies filled the streets of Chicago with joy, resilience, and the simple but powerful act of showing up authentically themselves.

It was an honor to celebrate alongside a community that continues to demonstrate that everyone deserves to live openly, authentically, and with dignity.

You made yesterday a celebration of belonging, community, and the freedom to be yourself.

06/26/2026

Knowing your rights is the first step toward protecting them.

Whether you're facing issues at work, searching for housing, accessing services, or experiencing discrimination because of who you are, you have protections under Illinois law.

The Know Your Rights section of our website explains your rights and the steps you can take if you believe discrimination has occurred.

Visit dhr.illinois,gov/rights and choose a topic to learn more.

06/23/2026

Earlier today, our team attended the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Mobile Museums of Tolerance newest traveling exhibit, We the People of Illinois, on display at Community Public Library!

We the People of Illinois explores stories of community, shared histories of prejudice, and the fight for equality throughout Illinois' diverse history. Visitors will come away with a deeper understanding of how these histories continue to shape contemporary conversations about justice and tolerance.

This exhibit will be on view at the library until July 31 before continuing its tour to communities across Illinois.

We hope you’ll find time to stop by!

06/19/2026

Juneteenth honors a pivotal moment in American history and the resilience of generations who persevered in the pursuit of freedom.

Today, the IDHR team walked alongside community members during The Justice Journey Alliance iMAGINE JUSTICE Juneteenth Commemorative Walk, honoring the two-and-a-half-year delay before freedom reached the last enslaved people in Texas in 1865.

As we commemorate , we honor the resilience, resistance, and enduring contributions of Black Americans and affirm the importance of building a future where equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality for all.

Happy Juneteenth.

06/15/2026

Thousands of people turn to the Illinois Department of Human Rights each year to report discrimination, seek support, and protect their rights.

As the needs of our communities evolve, so must the ways we serve them.

Today, we’re proud to introduce a refreshed agency identity— including a new logo, updated communications materials, and most importantly, enhancements to our website and resources. While you’ll notice some visual changes, our mission remains the same.

From a more intuitive website experience to a visual identity that better reflects the communities we serve and the values that guide our work, these changes are designed to help people more easily access information, understand their rights, and connect with the resources and support they need.

At its core, this evolution represents our ongoing commitment to strengthening how we connect with the people of Illinois—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

Explore our new website at dhr.illinois.gov!

Address

555 W Monroe Street , 7th Floor
Chicago, IL
60661

Telephone

+13128146200

Website

https://dhr.illinois.gov/

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