Equality Illinois

Equality Illinois is the state's oldest and largest LGBTQ equality organization, dedicated to advancing equal treatment and full acceptance of the LGBTQ community throughout Illinois. Based in Chicago, IL, the organization works comprehensively to secure, protect, and defend the basic civil rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, questioning, and transgender Illinoisans. Since its founding in 1991 as the Illinois Federation for Human Rights, Equality Illinois has grown into the most effective LGBTQ equality organization in the state, building upon the legacy of its activist founders who played instrumental roles in securing Chicago's landmark 1988 Human Rights Ordinance. The organization operates with three core values that guide all its work: Inclusiveness, ensuring that all who believe in the vision and mission are welcome and engaged as owners of the movement; Respect, recognizing the value of others' opinions and work to build meaningful collaborations and partnerships; and Fairness, ensuring that everyone receives the same rights, responsibilities, and opportunities regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Equality Illinois envisions a fair and unified Illinois where every person is treated with dignity and respect and lives freely without discrimination. The organization's statewide reach and deep community connections make it the primary advocate for LGBTQ equality across Illinois, working to transform laws, policies, and hearts and minds throughout the state.