Ten Years of Marriage Equality in Illinois: A Retrospective

Last week, I had the privilege of speaking at the Illinois Human Rights Commission’s Lunch and Learn, where we reflected on ten years of marriage equality in Illinois. Ten years ago, Illinois took a monumental step toward equality by legalizing same-sex marriage. On November 20, 2013, then-Governor Pat Quinn signed the Illinois Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act into law, making Illinois the 16th state to recognize marriage equality. The law officially took effect on June 1, 2014, marking the beginning of a new chapter for countless families across the state. As we look back on this decade of progress, we celebrate the resilience of those who championed this cause and its positive impact on Illinois families.

The Road to Equality

Before the legalization of same-sex marriage, many LGBTQ+ couples in Illinois were limited to civil unions, which, while providing some legal recognition, fell short of the full rights and protections afforded by marriage. The passage of the Illinois Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act in Illinois was a pivotal victory for the LGBTQ+ community, guaranteeing them the same legal benefits, responsibilities, and recognition as any other married couple. From inheritance rights to hospital visitation privileges, the law leveled the playing field for all families. 

The path to marriage equality was not an easy one. 

For many in same-sex relationships, the fight for marriage equality was deeply personal. Legal battles and protests weren’t just distant events—they were part of our lives, our communities, and our fight to love freely. We raised our voices, sharing our stories in hopes that society would see that love is love, regardless of gender. When the Illinois Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act passed, it was a significant victory for human rights, affirming the core values of fairness, equality, and respect for all.

Over the past decade, we have seen profound legal and social changes resulting from marriage equality. For one, LGBTQ+ couples now enjoy the same family law protections as heterosexual couples. From prenuptial agreements to divorce and child custody arrangements, the legal framework has evolved to accommodate the unique needs and rights of same-sex couples.

The Role of Family Law in the Equality Movement

As a family law attorney, I have worked alongside many LGBTQ+ clients since this historic change. The role of family law in supporting and protecting all families—regardless of sexual orientation—has been critical in ensuring that the rights in the 2013 law are upheld. 

Over the past decade, my firm and I have worked with same-sex couples on issues related to adoption, prenuptial & post-nuptial agreements, divorce, and navigating new legal territories that came with the law’s passage.

Our work has revealed that while marriage equality has been a significant step forward, challenges remain. For instance, parental rights in same-sex marriages, particularly in cases involving non-biological parents, have sometimes required careful legal navigation. As we continue to advocate for all families, our focus remains on ensuring equal treatment and protection under the law, regardless of family structure.

Looking Forward

Reflecting on the past decade of marriage equality in Illinois brings into focus how far we’ve come, but also how much work remains. As a family law attorney, I am proud to stand on the side of equality, helping LGBTQ+ families navigate their legal rights and protect their futures. Here’s to ten years of progress—and to many more years of equality, inclusion, and justice for everyone.

If you have questions about your family law rights or need legal assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. We are here to help all families, regardless of how they are formed.