Politics & Government

SW Minneapolis Lawmaker Headlines Gay Marriage Rally

Advocates pushing for legalization this year.

On Valentine's Day, same-sex marriage advocates thronged the Minnesota state capitol to hear Southwest Minneapolis' state Sen. Scott Dibble (DFL-61) and a bevvy of faith leaders call for the legalization of same-sex marriage.

Dibble is widely expected to introduce a legalization bill some time this session, although he has repeatedly said the state's budget is his first priority.

The rhetoric echoed that of last year's campaign to defeat a proposed state constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage. Instead of having a "conversation" with one's neighbors, though, advocates were asked to do the same with their legislators.

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapoliswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I'm asking you to be brave again," Dibble told the crowd, according to the Pioneer Press.

"It is time for a conversation and (to) build a relationship with your legislator. Show them how much this matters," Dibble added.

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapoliswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Pioneer Press also reports that Minnesotans United for All Families, the main pro-legalization lobby group, is focusing its efforts on rural DFLers and suburban legislative districts that voted "no" in the 2012 marriage amendment ballot. Polling on the issue shows voters are nearly evenly divided for and against legalization.

Anti-legalization group Minnesota for Marriage plans to hold its own rally at the state capitol building on Mar. 7.

Were you at the rally? What did you think of the speeches? Do you think the effort will succeed?


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