Illinois Right To Life Sues Pritzker Over Gathering Restrictions

CHICAGO, IL — Illinois Right to Life filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday against Gov. J.B. Pritzker, claiming the governor has prohibited the organization from gathering in groups of more than 10 people under his executive order, while placing no restrictions on certain other groups. According to the lawsuit, Illinois Right to Life said they haven't been given an exemption based on the governor's "sympathy, recognition and participation," unlike recent marches and protests against police brutality, churches and other groups.

The group is seeking declaratory action and injunctive relief, adding that as the state moves into the next phase, they continue to be banned from holding rallies, seminars, fundraisers and trainings because of the 50-person cap.

The anti-abortion organization's 52nd Annual Leaders for Life banquet is scheduled for July 23, during which former White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders is expected to speak.

"The disparate treatment of similar expressive activities violated both the First and 14th Amendments," the group's lawsuit states.

Patch will update this story as new information becomes available.