Housing Access
Illinois Affordable Housing Search
Heartland Alliance: Supporting Housing Services
City of Evanston Housing and Homelessness Commission
National Center for Transgender Equity: Housing and Homeless Shelters
Housing Discrimination Protection Policies for LGBTQ+ People
Evanston
Code of Ordinances City of Evanston, Title 5, Chapter 5
- Specifically prohibits discrimination “against such person because of the race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, source of income, familial status, national origin of the friends or associates of such person, covered criminal history, or actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence”. Includes penalties and actions that may be taken if tenant faces discrimination. Civil in nature.
- A social services organization that caters specifically to enforcing fair housing laws. Works under/with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. It works specifically to enforce fair housing laws in Chicago’s northern suburbs and educate on fair housing practices.
- The City of Evanston’s page on resources for tenants and landlords, including hotlines to report discrimination and mediation services.
Chicago
- Specifically mentions prohibition based on sex and gender identity. Includes language on how one is to file a claim and the penalties to be faced by those who discriminate. Civil in nature.
Where to File Housing Discrimination Claims
- A pdf list of housing discrimination resources provided by the city of Chicago
Cook County
Cook County Fair Housing Fact Sheet: Tenants and Homebuyers Know Your Fair Housing Rights
- A quick, two-page pdf, guide to the rights of tenants as provided by the Cook County government. Also provides a small list of resources.
Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions: Fair Housing Rights Under Illinois Law
- A general overview of Illinois housing protections including how to file complaints.
Federal
Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq.
- Federal law that protects LGBTQ+ people from housing discrimination.
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development: LGBTQIA+ Fair Housing Toolkit
- A Department of Housing and Urban Development educational guide specifically for LGBTQ+ people regarding their rights and resources. It is a five part online module.
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development: Reporting Housing Discrimination
- HUD reporting mechanism for housing discrimination.