May 19, 2014

Dear friend:

As a supporter of marriage equality, I want to take this opportunity to update you on the effort to repeal Wisconsin’s constitutional ban on same-sex marriage.

Last year’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down key portions of the federal Defense of Marriage Act has helped to overturn decades of discrimination in communities across our country. Just today, Oregon joined the growing list of states that have recognized the rights of loving families by striking down their indefensible ban on marriage equality.

In addition to Oregon, seventeen states have already acted to protect the freedom to marry and several other states have struck down discriminatory bans on marriage equality.

Is Wisconsin next?

In a revealing talk show interview this weekend, Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen conceded that he wouldn't be surprised if Wisconsin's same-sex marriage ban is overturned in court. Even though he is intent on defending Wisconsin’s discriminatory ban, Van Hollen didn’t dispute that Wisconsin could very well be the next state to affirm an individual’s right to marry.

While individual freedoms and the right to marry continue to be debated in our court system, I have worked with my Democratic colleagues to advance a legislative solution. Senate Joint Resolution 74 (SJR 74) was introduced this session to eliminate Wisconsin’s constitutional restriction on marriage equality. Although SJR 74 was blocked by the Republican-controlled legislature, this proposal was an important step in our effort to promote fairness and recognize the freedom to marry.

Momentum is building in Wisconsin and I am proud to stand with you on the right side of history.

As we continue to advocate for freedom and equality in our state, I hope that you will remain engaged and active in this discussion. I encourage you to share your thoughts with me and other elected officials, and I’ll be sure to keep you updated on the latest developments here in Wisconsin.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Shilling
State Senator, 32nd District
 

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