Approximately 150-175 people gathered in the rain at the Lincoln statue last Thursday (Oct. 29th) to rally for natural marriage and encourage Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) to “let the people vote” on the a state constitutional amendment to define marriage as “One Man, One Woman.” Speaker Madigan has held this amendment captive for six years now, not even letting it move to a legislative committee for a hearing.

Two busses left from the Chicago suburbs to meet with others from downstate. After the rally, concerned citizens went into the Capitol to lobby state lawmakers for the state constitutional amendment and against “civil unions” legislation. Much good was done by the 100+ individuals who lobbied their representatives and senators wearing white T-shirts with red wording, LET THE PEOPLE VOTE, and a symbol showing a man, woman and child, with the words, “Marriage one man, one woman.”

Below you will see pictures of State Senator Bill Haine (D-Alton) and State Senator Bill Brady (R-Bloomington) who spoke in favor of marriage. Not pictured were State Representative John Bradley (D-Marion) and State Representative David Reis (R-Olney) who are also strong supporters of protecting marriage from redefinition. As you can tell from the party affiliation of the lawmakers listed above — and it is important to point out — the issues of marriage and family have bi-partisan support.