A New Way on Marriage Equality:

We Can Secure Equal Rights for All Illinois Families

As a State Representative, I will continue championing the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Illinoisans and their families. A critical part of this work is the ongoing fight for same-sex couples to be guaranteed, by law, the same rights and protections granted to opposite-sex couples.

During my time in Springfield as Legislative Director for Citizen Action, I have fought alongside the ACLU and Equality Illinois for the rights of same-sex couples by actively supporting the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection & Civil Union Act sponsored by State Representative Greg Harris.

Representative Harris' legislative proposal would extend the same legal protections and responsibilities to all families in Illinois, including both same-sex and opposite-sex couples. As such, they would have the right to make emergency medical decisions and collect state spousal benefits, such as workers compensation and pension coverage, along with other basic rights.

The fight for same-sex marriage rights is a critical part of the overall struggle to assure equal protection of the law for all individuals, regardless of sexual identity. Civil unions are just one step in the right direction, and as State Representative I will work closely with Illinois' GLBT community to win the struggle for complete dignity and equality under our laws.