The acronym, LGBTQ+ has been getting more letters added on to it
over the years.
LGBT stands for Lesbian,
Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender. People more familiar with or apart of the LGBT
community also add on the letter “Q” which stands for a person who is
questioning their sexual orientation or identity. The letter “A” is added on
sometimes for asexual, not “ally” as people often think. The letter “P” is
included sometimes and stands for pansexual.
Over the years the country has become more accepting of the LGBT
community, according to FairWisconsin. 17 states have legalized gay marriage, Wisconsin
is not one. However limited rights to same sex couples in
Wisconsin have been recognized. Domestic
partnerships in Wisconsin provide select rights, such as the ability to inherit
a partner's estate in the absence of a will, hospital visitation, and the
ability to access family medical leave to care for a sick partner. Wisconsin
was the first state in the Midwest to enact any form of recognition for
same-sex unions.
All of Dane County bans discrimination on the
basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing, county government
(public) employment, and for companies that contract with the county. The City
of Milwaukee also bans discrimination based on gender identity and expression
in private and public employment, housing, and some public accommodations.
Madison as well takes part in banning discrimination based on gender identity
and sexual orientation.
According to Fair Wisconsin, Wisconsin has
become significantly more accepting of the LGBT community. Support for marriage
equality in Wisconsin stands at a 51 percent majority. Voters also support
basic discrimination protections for the transgender community. Republican and
conservative voters are also experiencing a cultural shift in acceptance, says
FairWisconsin.
For more information on LGBT support in
Wisconsin, visit FairWisconsin.com
