Chicago, IL, January 31, 2011 ... The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) applauds Illinois Governor Pat Quinn for signing the monumental Civil Unions Bill into law, which is taking place this afternoon at the Chicago Cultural Center.

The bill will allow all Illinois citizens to enter into relationships that will have the protections and benefits that Illinois law affords to married couples. These benefits, which can affect adoption rights, family leave, health insurance, tax deductions, civil actions related to spousal status, and emergency medical decision-making and hospital visitation, are critical human rights. Providing these benefits to all classes of citizens regardless of their sexual orientation marks a significant step towards equal rights.

"Today we celebrate the hard work of advocates and legislators, and specifically Representative Greg Harris, who worked tirelessly on this bill for several years to ensure all citizens are afforded the rights and privileges of married couples," said Lonnie Nasatir, ADL Regional Director of the Chicago/Upper Midwest. "This is a proud day for the state of Illinois as we have recognized a fundamental inequality and taken steps to remedy it."