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IDHR Director's Office
Director James Bennett leads our agency in enforcing the Illinois Human Rights Act, one of the most comprehensive civil rights laws in the nation. Our office sets priorities and oversees investigations to protect people in Illinois from unlawful treatment in employment, housing, public places, and other protected areas. We also support businesses seeking to do business with the State of Illinois, by ensuring their alignment with the HRA. Under Director Bennett's leadership, we work to protect individual rights and build an Illinois where everyone has access to opportunity and justice.
About the Director
Governor JB Pritzker appointed James Bennett as Director in January 2019. He brings deep experience in civil rights advocacy and public service to this role, including chairing Illinois Unites for Marriage in 2013 and the Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes.
Director Jim Bennett
Before joining our agency, Director Bennett served as Midwest Regional Director at Lambda Legal, where he led successful campaigns for marriage equality and fought discriminatory laws. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University and an MBA from the University of Illinois at Springfield.
Director’s Priorities
Modernize agency systems
We are improving our case management technology to investigate charges faster and serve you better.
Expand training and education
Our Training Institute offers programs on diversity, equity, inclusion, and implicit bias for employers and organizations.
Get in Touch
Have questions? Reach out by phone, email, or directly through the website.
Chicago: (312)-814-6200
Springfield: (217)-785-5100
TTY: (866)-740-3953