Gay couple to sue Illinois B&Bs that wouldn’t host civil union

The Illinois Department of Human Rights say two bed-and-breakfasts committed civil rights violations by refusing to hold a civil union. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

CHICAGO – Two gay men who were recently united in a civil union ceremony at their Illinois home say they’ll sue two bed-and-breakfasts that refused to host the event.

Advocates say it’s part of a growing clash between religious freedom and gay rights.

The Timber Creek Bed and Breakfast in Paxton and the Beall Mansion in Alton told the couple they wouldn’t host a civil union.

“We believe homosexuality is wrong and unnatural based on what the Bible says about it,” Timber Creek’s owner said in an email.

The Illinois Department of Human Rights found “substantial evidence” that a civil rights violation was committed. That gives the couple 90 days to file suit.

Illinois’ civil unions law went into effect in June.