Statement of Committee on Women regarding the marriage amendment

University of Wisconsin–Madison
Committee on Women in the University
November 8, 2006

The Committee on Women in the University is profoundly disappointed by yesterday’s vote to alter the constitution of the State of Wisconsin by creating a new section 13 of article XIII with the following language: “Only a marriage between one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state. A legal status identical or substantially similar to that of marriage for unmarried individuals shall not be valid or recognized in this state.”

We know this outcome is hurtful to many of our colleagues, students and friends, and is damaging to our community.

We reaffirm in the strongest possible terms our commitment to partner with governance bodies and campus organizations to achieve equity.

We encourage all faculty, staff and students to reach out to one another in compassion and continue working to create a welcoming environment and fully inclusive campus community.