Senator Agard: Statement on the Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising

Madison, WI – Today is the 53rd Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in New York City – a series of protests in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in the Greenwich Village neighborhood. This event is widely considered a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ movement in the United States. In 2016, President Obama designated Stonewall National Monument at Christopher St. in New York. Senator Melissa Agard (D-Madison) released the following statement on the continuing importance of this watershed moment in American history:

“Moral progress is made through grit and fortitude. It is due to brave folks like those who participated in the Stonewall Uprising that lead to positive changes in the state of our world. Today, we celebrate and honor those who risked harm to themselves in pursuit of equality and recognition under the law.

“In light of last week’s Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, it is more important now than ever to be vigilant in the protection of our personal freedoms, liberty, and civil rights. Everyone should be alarmed that in Justice Clarence Thomas’ concurrence, he noted that previous court decisions including Obergefell v. Hodges, should be re-examined. This is a warning shot that the rights of same-sex couples could soon be under attack.

“What the Stonewall Uprising taught us 53 years ago is that we must stand firm in our beliefs, even in the face of those who want to turn back the clock to a time of discrimination and inequality. I will continue standing side by side with the LGBTQ+ community and will never back down.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.