What is NOT considered a protected class under the Illinois Human Rights Act?

Income level is not considered a protected class under the Illinois Human Rights Act. This act aims to prevent discrimination based on specific characteristics that are deemed essential for the protection of individuals in various contexts, including housing, employment, and public accommodations.

The protected classes under this act include race, disability, marital status, and several others like age, religion, and national origin. These classifications are designed to safeguard individuals from discrimination and ensure equal treatment. However, income level is not included in this list, making it a category where discrimination does not have the same legal protections in the context of the Act. This reflects a focus on inherent characteristics rather than socio-economic status, which can vary widely among individuals and is not a fixed attribute like race or disability.