CHICAGO – Illinois is kicking off its Human Rights Week campaign with gusto, underscoring the state’s commitment to upholding the principles enshrined in the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Local civil rights leaders are joining forces with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) and the Illinois Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in a host of virtual events, marking 75 years of global commitment to human dignity and equality, confirmed by a state news release.
With the famous outset, "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights," the Universal Declaration of Human Rights set a standard cemented into Illinois law by the Illinois Human Rights Act, which triumphed over federal and international benchmarks for 43 years. With robust safeguards against various forms of discrimination, the Act has been a bastion of protection, said Jim Bennett, IDHR Director, in a statement, saying that a beacon of hope shines for those grappling with unjust treatment.
Throughout the week, Illinois residents can partake in a social media awareness campaign to express their support for human rights, joining a conversation that spans the globe. The highlight is set for December 7, where a virtual fireside chat, slated for noon to 1 p.m., features conversations with frontliners on the civil rights battlefield—a gesture aiming to echo the call for inclusivity and justice, as depicted by the official campaign details.
"The Act exists to protect all vulnerable communities, and it is our obligation to not only empower individuals to demand the respect and dignity they deserve," IHRC Chair Mona Noriega stated, who are also assisting the employers and housing providers to navigate their legal responsibilities. For those who've met discrimination face-to-face, the IDHR offers a pathway to file a charge by calling or emailing their intake office, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, finds freedom within Illinois’ borders.
