News Item

Chicago passes transgender equality law

November 7, 2002

Chicago's city council approved an ordinance on Wednesday that protects transgender people from discrimination.

The measure, which reportedly passed without controversy, prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit transactions based on gender identity or expression.

Chicago Mayor Richard Daley endorsed the ordinance.

"Transpeople are some of the most abused and violated people in our society," said Rick Garcia, political director of Equality Illinois. "Today we sent the message that all people in Chicago, including gender-variant people, must be treated fairly and with respect."

Chicago becomes the 11th jurisdiction in the country to approve such protections this year. Other cities on the list include Dallas, New York City, Philadelphia and Decatur, Ill.