Women's and Reproductive Rights

We work to ensure that every person can make the best decision for themselves and their family about whether and when to have a child without undue political interference and to reduce the huge barriers created for many women.

Maroon filtered image of a woman climbing stairs. Orange filtered birth control over maroon geometric shape.

The ACLU of Illinois has also worked for decades through the courts and legislature to create in Illinois an oasis for basic reproductive care in the Midwest. But the attack on basic access to reproductive health care, including contraception and abortion care remains constant. We work to ensure that every person can make the best decision for themselves and their family about whether and when to have a child without undue political interference.

Today, gender bias continues to create huge barriers for many women. Ongoing struggles include ensuring equal economic opportunities, educational equity, and an end to gender-based violence.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: ABORTION IN ILLINOIS

ILLINOIS ABORTION LAWS AND PROTECTIONS
(EN ESPAÑOL)

A LOOK AT 10 YEARS OF REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS AND FREEDOM IN THE ILLINOIS LEGISLATURE

The Latest

Press Release
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Parent Advocacy Groups and a Coalition of Head Start Providers File Lawsuit to Stop Trump Administration's Dismantling of Head Start

Today, a coalition of parents and Head Start providers filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s coordinated and unlawful efforts to dismantle the Head Start program, which would be catastrophic for the millions of people who rely on it.
Know Your Rights
Know Your Rights Abortion

Know Your Rights - Abortion in Illinois

Laws around accessing abortion vary from state to state. Illinois law ensures that abortion is legal for all people. Know your rights when accessing abortion care in Illinois.
News & Commentary
Navy background with light blue pregnancy tests. White jail bars overlaying

Reproductive Rights Detained

With Expecting Justice, the ACLU of Illinois and the WJI saw the need for a deeper evaluation of the often-overlooked conditions for those who are pregnant or postpartum, and others needing reproductive health care, in county jails across the state. 
News & Commentary
Supreme Court building with maroon top and abortion pills

What to Know about the Abortion Case in the Supreme Court

On Tuesday, March 26 the Supreme Court of the United States heard a case involving the broad availability of mifepristone, the safest and most widely used medication for abortion care.
Court Case
Jan 31, 2025

Jane Doe v. Margaret Burke et al.

Court Case
Jan 22, 2024

National Institute of Family and Life Advocates, et al. v. Mario Treto Jr. and Ronald Schroeder, et al. v. Mario Treto Jr.

Court Case
Jan 26, 2023

Stachler v. BOE

Court Case
Nov 22, 2022

Luster-Hoskins v. Hall