Wisconsin will pay...

This is probably one of the most heart breaking story that has hit me here at UWEC.

In the fall of 2006, I took Dr. Fosters Intermediate algebra class. The amount of confidence and assertiveness she instilled in me and my fellow classmates was incredibly great and comforting. The University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, the city of Eau Claire, and the state of Wisconsin has lost another great mind due to bigotry and hatred towards an issue that is highly misunderstood. Back in November, Wisconsin reelected a liberal governor, a liberal senator, all but one liberal representatives, and a liberal majority to the state senate yet voted YES on a constitutional ban on CIVIL UNIONS (notice I didn't say gay marriage--this wasn't a marriage act!)

How could Wisconsin, one of the most progressive states in the nation, vote to ban rights toward a certain group of law-abiding, society-contributing people?! Well, now Wisconsin will pay. Because of the hatred and ignorance that the voters showed on that tragic night, there are thousands of doctors, lawyers, educators, and civil workers who have packed their bags and left for a state that will accept them for who they are.

What I admired about Dr. Foster, is that she never caused a ruckus or commotion about her sexuality. She never dragged politics into her classroom or choices in her life decisions. She didn't leave Wisconsin to "prove her point" politically, she left for her son, Rhys. This child, would not have the same rights as a child in California in the state of Wisconsin thanks to the voters back in November of 2006. So if you voted YES on the ban or you know someone who did, remind them of the children they hurt directly and indirectly. Think of your own children, when the education and health care sector takes a hard hit in the next 10 years because certain professionals are denied rights to live a happy and prosperous life with a family in this state. Think of Rhys who has two mothers who had to worry about how they were going to go about taking care of him as a JOINT couple.

Dr. Foster cried the night of the election, and with good reason. I think maybe we all should look back to that night and take time out to cry ourselves.

Education is knowledge, knowledge is power...isn't it that easy to understand? Please Wisconsin, the next time you are presented the opportunity to deny a group of people certain rights, think about WHO those people are and the people they represent. This years Intermediate Algebra students will never experience the pleasure I received in Dr. Foster's class, and for them I have great sympathy. Dr. Foster, I love you and I wish you the best of luck with your new life, job, and family, all which you rightfully deserve as the hard working, society pillar that you are.