Back Row: Lori Hanewold, Janesville; Laura Curtiss, Madison; Amber Vaughn Glass, Janesville; Rep Clint Anderson, D-Beloit; Sen Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit; JoAnn Gruber-Hagen, Madison; Debora Hoard, Madison; Gail Zaleski, E-Club of USA3.
Missing from picture: Ellen Ermer, Madison; Fatou Ceesay, Madison; Donna Conant, Milwaukee; Donna Neal, Milwaukee.
On 18 November, members of the Zonta Clubs of Janesville, Madison, Milwaukee and the e-Club of USA 3 gathered at the Wisconsin State Capitol for a coordinated Lobby Day focused on ending child marriage and supporting the Wisconsin Equal Rights Amendment (WI ERA). Zontians secured 30 scheduled appointments with legislators and staff, engaging in productive conversations about the Child Marriage Bill (AB 656/SB 634) and the need to strengthen legal protections for women and girls.
For lawmakers without scheduled appointments, Zontians visited offices to speak with staffers briefly and provide informational materials. Advocacy packets included summaries of both legislative issues and a small symbolic pillow featuring wedding rings and a business card with a QR code linking to more details about the child marriage issue.
The lobby effort produced additional co-sponsors signing onto the Child Marriage Bill. Zontians are now developing a follow-up plan, including a targeted social media campaign encouraging constituents in key districts to contact their representatives. Members also plan to mobilize friends and allies living in those areas to amplify posts and make supportive calls.
Join us in saying NO 