Public Accommodations Discrimination Under the Illinois Human Rights Act: Know Your Rights

Discrimination doesn’t just happen in the workplace – it also happens in public spaces. Under the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA), businesses and public places cannot deny services, refuse entry, or treat someone unfairly based on their race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. If you have been discriminated against in a store, restaurant, hotel, medical facility, or other public place, you have legal rights and may be entitled to compensation.

What Is Public Accommodations Discrimination?

Public accommodations discrimination occurs when a business or facility that serves the public treats someone unfairly or denies them services because of their legally protected characteristics. Under the IHRA, public accommodations include:

  • Retail stores (grocery stores, clothing shops, malls)
  • Restaurants, bars, and coffee shops
  • Hotels, motels, and Airbnb-style rentals
  • Healthcare facilities (hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics)
  • Theaters, sports arenas, and entertainment venues
  • Public transportation and rideshare services
  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Schools and educational institutions
  • Government buildings and public services

Examples of Public Accommodations Discrimination

Discrimination in public spaces can take many forms, including:

  • A restaurant refuses to serve someone because of their race or ethnicity
  • A retail store follows or harasses a customer because of their perceived identity
  • A hotel refuses to rent a room to a same-sex couple
  • A doctor’s office denies treatment to a person with a disability
  • A business refuses to accommodate a service animal
  • A bar refuses entry to someone based on their gender identity
  • A rideshare driver cancels rides for passengers due to their religion

These actions are illegal under the IHRA, and businesses that engage in this behavior can be held accountable.

Illinois Laws Provide Strong Protections

The Illinois Human Rights Act makes it unlawful for businesses to discriminate against customers or the general public. Unlike federal laws, which sometimes have limits based on the size of the business, Illinois law applies broadly to all places of public accommodation. The law also requires businesses to provide reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, including wheelchair access, service animal allowances, and communication aids.

What to Do If You Experience Public Accommodations Discrimination

If you believe you have been discriminated against in a public place, take action as soon as possible. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Document Everything. Write down what happened, including the date, time, location, names of people involved, and any witnesses. If possible, take photos or videos.
  2. Keep Any Evidence. Save receipts, emails, text messages, or other proof that you were denied service or treated unfairly.
  3. File a Complaint with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR). The IDHR investigates discrimination complaints and can take action against businesses that violate the law. Complaints must typically be filed within one year of the incident.
  4. Consult an Attorney. A lawyer can help you file a complaint, build your case, and seek compensation for damages.

Possible Remedies for Discrimination

If a business is found guilty of discrimination, you may be entitled to:

  • Monetary damages for emotional distress or financial harm
  • Policy changes or training requirements for the business
  • An official order requiring the business to stop discriminatory practices
  • Legal fees and costs covered by the responsible party

Businesses that violate the law can also face fines and penalties.

Take Action Today

Discrimination in public spaces is not just unfair – it’s illegal. If you have been denied service, harassed, or treated unfairly in a business or public setting, you have the right to take legal action. We specialize in public accommodations discrimination cases and can help you understand your options, file a complaint, and fight for justice. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.

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