In an age of increased polarization and partisanship, LGBTQ+ people can remember Governor Rell as a person who respected decency, pragmatism, and the rule of law above partisan politics.
The freedom to marry was hard-won in Connecticut. In 2008, the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples had a constitutional right to marry the person they loved. The legislature quickly passed a bill in 2009 that codified that decision into law. Although she was not a supporter, Governor Rell promptly signed the bill, one of the first governors to do so.
We certainly did not agree on everything and were disappointed in her unwillingness to vocally stand up for our community. Nonetheless, in this final moment of reflection, we see Governor Rell as an ally and wish there were more public servants with her compassionate heart and principled courage.
Equality Connecticut works to advance the rights, health, history, and culture of the LGBTQIA+ community in Connecticut. A queer-led grassroots organization rooted in social justice values, EQCT advocates for change,celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community in the state, and supports the state’s LGBTQIA+ organizational community.