Following is the statement Jan Quinlan delivered to the special meeting of the Outagamie County Board at their June 6, 2023 meeting to consider the censure of Supervisor Tim Hermes:
We want to thank the Board for providing this opportunity to address the Board. Making time to listen to all voices on controversial topics is an important part of the open government process that the League has always supported.
At this time, we would like to commend the Board for creating and supporting the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion position as part of the Outagamie County staff. Further, we commend the Board for its willingness to establish a code of conduct and hold its own members accountable for adhering to respectful behavior in its public meetings.
Since its founding in 1920, the League has focused on its primary mission to empower voters and defend democracy. In 2020, our organization formally committed itself to diversity, equity, and inclusion in policy and practice. This compels us to stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ citizens. With them, we work to dispel damaging falsehoods and elevate their truths.
The League fully embraces a diverse society as we continue our quest toward a more perfect and inclusive democracy in our second century of work. We urge the Outagamie County Board to stand on the side of democratic values and make clear your commitment to a community in which ALL citizens feel safe and have a sense of belonging.