It’s impossible to ignore the surge in discrimination against LGBTQ+ people across the country and in many neighboring states in the Midwest. This month, for the first time in history, the Human Rights Campaign declared a “state of emergency” for LGBTQ+ Americans after an unprecedented and dangerous spike in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and protests in many areas of the country.
Amid this adversity, Chicago has become a haven for LGBTQ+ people in the Midwest who are fleeing discrimination and threats of violence. These tangible threats are causing many LGBTQ+ families in Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky and other states to uproot their lives in search of safety, with many relocating to Chicago and its suburbs as places of refuge. There is much work left to be done to ensure that when they land in our state, they find a place that welcomes them with open arms.
As an openly gay mortgage loan officer in Chicago and as CEO of the state’s oldest organization dedicated to defending the rights of LGBTQ+ people, we know firsthand how important it is to foster safe and affordable housing for LGBTQ+ people. We have listened to countless stories from those who have fled their hometowns to find acceptance and opportunity in our city.
A Tribune article published April 24, “LGBTQ residents find fresh start in Illinois,” chronicles this great migration. As one couple featured in the article said about their decision to move to Chicago after facing slurs and a hostile environment in their home state of Nebraska, “We are just over it. I am ashamed to say I live in Nebraska … and I don’t want to be ashamed of where I live.”
The 2023 Business Climate Index released by Out Leadership, a business platform, reveals a distressing regression in LGBTQ+ access and equality in the United States. While Illinois ranks among the top 10 states in terms of LGBTQ+ equality, our neighboring states sit in the bottom half of the rankings. It’s no surprise, then, that LGBTQ+ residents from these states seek solace in Chicago, where they can escape laws that endanger their lives and livelihoods.
But even in Illinois, some are protesting progress.
Nearly 160 drag events were the target of protests or threats of violence last year, and Illinois had the third-highest number of incidents. A library in Downers Grove had to cancel a drag bingo event after staff received threats through email, as well as a letter reading “more to come” with a bullet enclosed.
There is more work left to be done to make the entire state of Illinois a welcoming place for people to be free to live as they are. We have an obligation to LGBTQ+ residents living here, and to those looking to move to our city and state, to make every corner of Illinois free of discrimination.
Our two organizations recently announced a partnership during June, Pride Month, with a dozen mortgage loan officers across the state to support the work of Equality Illinois in fighting discrimination and creating an environment in which LGBTQ+ people find resources and a welcoming environment in their new home state.
Illinois stands among 23 states, plus the District of Columbia, that prohibit discrimination in housing based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and equality. But our work doesn’t end with legislation; it’s our responsibility to ensure that LGBTQ+ people have fair access to housing opportunities as well.
To level the playing field, those in the housing sector must be educated and acknowledge the unique challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face in the housing market. Studies by the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance have highlighted issues including safety concerns and the long history of discrimination that has hindered LGBTQ+ people’s wealth potential. Furthermore, data compiled by Zillow in June 2020 shows that in places where explicit legal protections for LGBTQ+ people exist, like Chicago, the typical cost of buying a home was 63% more than in areas without protections.
In light of these challenges, we urge Chicago-area real estate professionals to educate themselves about ways they can offer support to LGBTQ+ homebuyers and renters. Whether it’s finding neighborhoods friendly to LGBTQ+ people, connecting clients with supportive resources or offering guidance on inclusive financial options, these efforts demonstrate a commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all. This not only benefits the community directly, it also contributes to a more inclusive and equitable housing market that benefits everyone.
At stake in the daily lives of LGBTQ+ individuals is the fundamental right to be treated with fairness, respect and dignity regardless of address. It is about so much more than mere legal rights. It encompasses social acceptance and inclusion. It means being able to live openly, free from the burden of hiding one’s identity. It means having access to affirming services, support networks and resources. It means being able to participate fully and equally in all areas of society, from community events and political processes to buying a home and living in a supportive neighborhood.
To those who seek refuge in our city and state, know that Chicago will always stand as a beacon of hope and resilience for you. It is a city that will always continue to celebrate love, diversity and equality. We refuse to allow discrimination and bigotry to dictate the narrative. We welcome you with open arms and are committed to fighting for you.
Brian Johnson is CEO of Equality Illinois. Shimmy Braun is senior loan officer at CrossCountry Mortgage.
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