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The Department of Human Rights administers the Illinois Human Rights Act. The Illinois Human Rights Act ("Act") prohibits discrimination in Illinois with respect to employment, financial credit, public accommodations and real estate transactions on the bases of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual harassment), national origin, ancestry, military status, age (40 and over), order of protection status, marital status, sexual orientation (which includes gender-related identity), unfavorable military discharge and physical and mental disability. The Act also prohibits sexual harassment in education, discrimination because of citizenship status and arrest record in employment, and discrimination based on familial status in real estate transactions.
A discrimination charge can be initiated by calling, writing or appearing in person at the Department's Chicago or Springfield office within 300 days of the date the alleged discrimination took place in all cases except housing discrimination (one year filing deadline).
IDHR Mission Statement
- To secure for all individuals within the State of Illinois freedom from unlawful discrimination, and;
- To establish and promote equal opportunity and affirmative action as the policy of this state for all its residents.
IDHR Vision Statement
We, the employees of the Illinois Department of Human Rights, believe that everyone has an inalienable right to live free from discrimination, in every aspect of life. We are dedicated to delivering quality service to the people of Illinois with integrity, honesty and respect.
Where to begin?
If you are visiting our website to determine how to access services, please review helpful links on the IDHR "How Do I" page.