What additional categories does the Illinois Human Rights Act include that are not typically covered under federal law?

The Illinois Human Rights Act expands protections beyond those typically found in federal law by including categories such as ancestry and military status. While federal laws, like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, cover categories such as race, religion, sex, national origin, and disability, the Illinois Human Rights Act specifically addresses additional categories that protect individuals from discrimination in various contexts, including employment, housing, and public accommodations.

Ancestry protection helps individuals avoid discrimination based on their heritage or ethnic background, which is not explicitly acknowledged in many federal laws. Similarly, military status provides protections for those who are active members of the military or veterans, recognizing the unique challenges faced by these individuals. This differentiation reinforces the state's commitment to combating discrimination in ways that extend beyond federal mandates, ensuring a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to human rights protections.