Statement on the passing of Ray Vahey

Yesterday, we lost one of Milwaukee’s dearest sons, Ray Vahey. Our hearts are broken as we remember this champion for equality. His contributions have not only changed laws but have also transformed hearts and minds, creating a more inclusive and accepting Wisconsin. Ray and his husband fought hard to defeat the ban on same-sex marriage in 2006, and Ray was one of the founders of the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, Equality Wisconsin, now known as Fair Wisconsin.

He was an outspoken leader, not just on LGBTQ+ rights, but on immigration as well. He worked closely with Christine Neumann-Ortiz and Voces de la Frontera in support of pro-immigrant policies at the state and federal levels.

Ray Vahey’s legacy lives on in us as out leaders serving our city of Milwaukee, and his spirit will continue to inspire future generations to strive for equality and justice

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.