Commemorating the exemplary life and service of R. Richard “Dick” Wagner.
Wagner’s advocacy and leadership had a profound impact on the progression of LGBTQ rights within the state, showcasing the importance of representation in governance. His work in mentorship and community involvement extended beyond his political career, influencing many others in the pursuit of equality and civil rights. The resolution emphasizes the lasting legacy of his efforts, particularly in the realms of community leadership and public service, which continue to inspire advocacy for social justice today.
SJR27 is a resolution that commemorates the exemplary life and service of R. Richard 'Dick' Wagner, a prominent figure in Wisconsin's civil rights history. Born on September 29, 1943, in Dayton, Ohio, Wagner's contributions to LGBTQ rights and his extensive career as a public servant are highlighted. He served as a budget analyst in Wisconsin's government for 33 years before retiring in 2005 and was a pioneering openly gay member of the Dane County Board during the 1980s. Notably, Wagner championed the enactment of significant gay rights ordinances in Madison and Dane County, paving the way for Wisconsin's statewide nondiscrimination law in 1982.
While SJR27 serves as an acknowledgement of Wagner's achievements, it also represents the ongoing discussions surrounding LGBTQ rights in the broader political landscape. The bill is uncontroversial in nature as it is a commemorative resolution, but it highlights both the progress made and the challenges that still exist in ensuring comprehensive civil rights protection for all individuals, particularly those within the LGBTQ community.