Seven U.S. representatives from
Illinois are calling on Illinois lawmakers to approve a gay marriage
bill.
After passage in the Senate last month,
the measure awaits a vote in the House.
Democratic Representatives Luis
Gutierrez, Danny Davis, Mike Quigley, Tammy Duckworth, Bill Foster,
Jan Schakowsky and Brad Schneider signed on to a letter urging
lawmakers to approve the measure.
“We urge you to vote 'yes' on Senate
Bill 10,” the representatives wrote. “Illinois will be stronger
when we allow all loving and committed couples the chance to care for
and protect one another through marriage.”
“An ever-increasing number of
Illinoisans agree. From public opinion polls to letters and
conversations with constituents, we are seeing a clear and rapid
shift toward support for marriage equality. Put simply, the public
has turned a corner on this issue. Most Illinoisans believe we
should not impose second-class status on one group of citizens –
and they believe that government should treat all families with
equity, fairness and respect.”
“Please join us in being on the right
side of history – and vote to include all Illinoisans in the
freedom to marry.” (Read
the entire letter.)
Illinois has 18 congressmen. Following
the 2012 elections, there are 12 Democrats and 6 Republicans.
(Related: Illinois
House Speaker Michael Madigan says gay marriage bill 12 votes shy.)