Council adopts file codifying gender-neutral terminology for fire department personnel

Today (Tuesday, May 13), the Common Council adopted file #221377 – a substitute charter ordinance relating to use of gender-neutral terminology for fire department personnel. The file updates language in the Police and Fire Departments, and Fireman’s Annuity Benefit Fund chapters of the charter by substituting gender-neutral language for firefighters and their spouses. Sponsors of the file include Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Peter Burgelis, Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, and Alderwoman Sharlen Moore.

“We want to issue a big ‘thank you’ to Chief Aaron Lipski for taking the lead on this issue in order to reflect the leadership of the many women firefighters who serve in our fire department,” said the Council members.

“Additionally, as we get ready to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride month in June, we should consider this a victory for equality during a time when our community is experiencing push-back and downright attacks from the federal government and state legislatures across the country. We want everyone to know we see them, we hear them, and we value them,” they continued.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.