More details in the next Windy City Times, available Jan. 26.
Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed the state gay-rights bill into law Friday, Jan. 21, more than 30 years after gay civil-rights legislation was first proposed in the state. Equality Illinois activists, other lobbyists and representatives groups attended the signing. Key politicians who worked on passage also were well represented, including: State Rep. Larry McKeon, Sen. Carol Ronen, and Sen. Emil Jones. The bill passed the Senate and House earlier this month. Photos by Andrew Davis and Suzanne Kraus.