Which act governs anti-discrimination laws in Illinois?

The Illinois Human Rights Act is the primary legislation that governs anti-discrimination laws in the state. It was enacted to ensure equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or military status. The act establishes a comprehensive framework to protect against discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and other areas.

In contrast, the other acts mentioned do not focus specifically on anti-discrimination. The Equal Opportunity Act, for instance, commonly relates to promoting equal employment opportunities but may not encompass the comprehensive range addressed by the Illinois Human Rights Act. The Child Welfare Act generally deals with the welfare of children in protective services, while the Family Rights Act pertains more to family-related rights rather than broad anti-discrimination. Thus, the Illinois Human Rights Act stands as the cornerstone of civil rights protection against discrimination in Illinois.