A Fair Wisconsin Votes "No"

We are 18 days away from our November election. For many of us living in Wisconsin, this day holds much importance. Wisconsin residents will be faced with many crucial ballot questions. One of which is whether to amend the state constitution to prohibit same-sex marriage and civil unions (both for same-sex couples and opposite gender couples). We stand at a profound threshold - whether Wisconsin will continue its legacy of progessive-minded equity towards diverse populations (we were the first state in the nation to add sexual orientation to the legal definition of protected class) or whether we use our Constitution to legislate discrimination.

I have been profoundly moved by witnessing our straight allies - family, friends and strangers - around the state, step forward in support of defeating this amendment through holding house parties to raise funds for campaigning and education, door-to-door canvassing, making donations, making phone calls, talking openly with family and friends about the implications of the passage of this amendment.

Wisconsin is poised to make history on Nov 7. We are being looked to as the first state in the nation that may be able to defeat a constitutional ban. Interesting, Wisconsin has been pegged as the new "Peoria." Meaning that based on our diverse ideologies here, we have become the political pulse point on many issues for the entire nation (what happens in Wisconsin has the likelihood of replicating itself elsewhere politically according to a recent National Public Radio story I heard). What legacy to we want to be ours here in Wisconsin? My hope is one of acceptance for diverse families and compassion for all people.

It's not too late to help. If you are wondering what you might do, you can visit Fair Wisconsin's website at www.fairwisconsin.org for
*a list of talking points for conversations with family, friends and co-workers.
*a list of regional offices around the state where you could volunteer an hour (or more) of your time.
*a link for making donations. Heck, you don't even have to be from Wisconsin to donate!!

Be sure to vote on November 7. Know where your polling place is. If you don't know, call your city or town clerk's office. They can help you locate your polling place. If you need to vote absentee for any reason, requests for ballots to be mailed to you must be received by your city/town clerk no later than 10 days before the election.

Be sure to vote on this amendment. In Dane County, the amendment will be printed on the backside of your ballot, so please be sure to flip the ballot over and mark your vote. This may also be true in other counties with large numbers of offices up for re-election, so please look carefully.

Our family is directly and deeply impacted by the outcome of this election. We are hopeful that you will hold us in your hearts, minds and spirts as in walk into your polling place and cast your ballot.