We did it! On Wednesday, August 4, 2011, Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele signed a bill authorizing domestic partner health benefits for county employees.

Those gathered for this joyous occasion were from diverse communities, including African-American, Latino, religious, and LGBT. We celebrated a major step toward protecting all employees against discrimination, recognizing that until all people are treated fairly, we are all at risk.

It is doubly satisfying victory because two years ago, when Equality Wisconsin also led the grassroots organizing, the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors passed a similar bill, only to have it vetoed by then-Executive Scott Walker. Thanks go to our staff, board, and members, who again worked diligently to bring fairness and justice to our community.