Yesterday, the Department of Justice opened civil rights investigations into 36 Illinois schools, 35 public school districts, and the Noble Network of Charter Schools in Chicago. What is being questioned is whether our schools acknowledge LGBTQ+ people, support trans students, and recognize that families come in many forms.

This is federal overreach affecting communities across Illinois, from Chicago to Cairo, from suburban districts to rural towns. Schools that opened their doors like any other day found themselves placed on a federal list by afternoon.

If you are a parent, teacher, administrator, or student in one of these districts, Equality Illinois is here to help. We are already coordinating with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, the Illinois State Board of Education, and trusted legal partners to provide support.

Illinois has long led on inclusion. In 2020, our state passed the Illinois Inclusive Curriculum Law (PA 101-0227), ensuring students learn about the contributions of LGBTQ+ people in Illinois and U.S. history. That progress is now under attack.

Thirty-four years of advocacy has taught us the difference between an investigation and a message. We hear this one clearly and we are still here.

Now more than ever, donating to Equality Illinois is critical. Your support helps us respond quickly, defend hard-won progress, provide resources to impacted communities, and continue fighting for the dignity and safety of every LGBTQ+ person in Illinois.