LGBT rights in Wisconsin

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LGBT rights in Wisconsin refer to the legal and social status of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals in the state of Wisconsin. Over the years, Wisconsin has seen significant changes in the recognition and protection of LGBT rights.

Legal Status

Decriminalization of Homosexuality

Wisconsin decriminalized homosexuality in 1983, making it one of the earlier states to do so. Prior to this, same-sex sexual activity was illegal under state law.

Anti-Discrimination Laws

In 1982, Wisconsin became the first state in the United States to enact a statewide law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation in employment, housing, and public accommodations. This landmark legislation set a precedent for other states to follow.

Same-Sex Marriage

Same-sex marriage became legal in Wisconsin on October 6, 2014, following a decision by the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit which upheld a lower court ruling that the state's ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. This decision was further solidified by the Supreme Court of the United States ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

Adoption and Parenting

Same-sex couples in Wisconsin have the same rights to adoption as opposite-sex couples. The state allows both joint adoption and second-parent adoption, ensuring that LGBT individuals and couples can legally become parents.

Gender Identity and Expression

Wisconsin does not have a comprehensive statewide law that explicitly protects individuals from discrimination based on gender identity or expression. However, some local ordinances in cities like Madison and Milwaukee provide protections for transgender individuals.

Public Opinion and Social Climate

Public opinion in Wisconsin has shifted significantly over the years, with increasing support for LGBT rights. Various advocacy groups, such as Fair Wisconsin, have played a crucial role in advancing LGBT rights and raising awareness about issues affecting the LGBT community.

Related Pages

• LGBT rights in the United States
• Same-sex marriage in the United States
• Obergefell v. Hodges
• Fair Wisconsin
• Gender identity
• Sexual orientation

See Also

• Human rights in the United States
• Civil rights movements
• LGBT culture