Castro protects more Illinois workers with Human Rights Act expansion

ELGIN — More workers in Illinois will have protections under the state’s Human Rights Act as a law sponsored by State Senator Cristina Castro took effect July 1.

“Workplace discrimination exists. It may not be done with bad intent, and at times it might not even be done intentionally, but it still happens, and real Illinois families are affected by it,” Castro said. “Everyone deserves the right to work at their job without having to worry about being discriminated against just because of who they are.”

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Lightford celebrates July 1 minimum wage increase

CHICAGO — Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) celebrated the July 1 increase to the state’s minimum wage, believing it will help working families navigate the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“So many families are struggling right now,” Lightford said. “Though minimum wage workers may count themselves lucky to have jobs while a great deal are unemployed, they still deserve to make a living wage. This increase takes them closer to that goal.”

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Middle schools to teach civics under new law by Collins

CHICAGO — Middle school students will be required to study civics as part of their course work under a new law passed by State Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins (D-Chicago) that took effect last week.

“Current events teach us the importance and impact of civic engagement at every age,” Collins said. “In the malicious action and shameful inaction of our current president, we are given daily reminders that to be a society ruled by laws, not men, we must be vigilant and active. That starts with education about our system of government and our own responsibility to it.”

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