The Illinois Department of Human Rights (DHR) was established July 1, 1980. Its mission is to secure for all individuals within the State of Illinois, freedom from unlawful discrimination and to promote equal opportunity and affirmative action as the policy of this State in all of its decisions, programs and activities. This is done through enforcement of the Illinois Human Rights Act, an Illinois State statute. The Department also enforces the (ADA) Aid to Disabled Americans Act.

DHR has two offices, the first at the James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph Street, Ste. 10-100. Chicago and the second office at 222 S. College Street, 1st Floor, Springfield, Illinois.

DHR is a neutral investigative agency which receives charges of discrimination from individuals and conducts an investigation to determine if there is any merit to the allegations. The Department investigates approximately 4,300 complaints per year.

If the Department, through its investigative process, determines the charge lacks merit, the complaining party is notified of the finding and the charge is dismissed. If the Department determines there is substantial evidence to support the allegations, the parties involved are encouraged to conciliate their differences or a complaint will be filed on behalf of the complaining party with the Illinois Human Rights Commission. Once there the case will be set for hearing before an administrative law judge who will upon hearing the case make a finding of fact as to the charge of discrimination.

DHR is neutral in its activities and works jointly and in cooperation with both the Complainant and Respondent to ensure an accurate and complete investigation.

DHR has established a Speakers Bureau that provides, free of charge, to any interested group or organization, workshops and speakers. The Department has just successfully completed a pilot program aimed at reaching out to Illinois Communities to discuss in detail pressing issues of the day. The program will be fully implemented the 1st of the year. Anyone interested in more information on the Human Rights Act can contact Andy Martinez, Director of Communications at 312/814-3337.

Additionally, the Department will answer telephone inquiries from all individuals and employers, confidentially, regarding discrimination concerns. The telephone number in the Chicago office is 312/814-6200 and in Springfield is 217/795-5100.

January 1994 / Illinois Municipal Review / Page 17