Several state and local laws prohibit employers from discriminating against employees on the basis of their sexual orientation. For example, the Illinois Human Rights Act defines "sexual orientation" as "actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, or gender-related identity, whether or not traditionally associated with the person's designated sex at birth." Under the Act, employers may not "refuse to hire, to segregate, or to act with respect to recruitment, hiring, promotion, renewal of employment, selection for training or apprenticeship, discharge, discipline, tenure or terms, privileges or conditions of employment on the basis of unlawful" sexual orientation discrimination.
If you believe your employer or a prospective employer has discriminated against you on the basis of your actual or perceived sexual orientation, call us at 312.269.0200 or contact us online to discuss your rights.