Tammy Baldwin: “today I rise to honor someone who was a true leader and inspiring figure to many in my hometown of Madison, WI, and…”

“today I rise to honor someone who was a true leader and inspiring figure to many in my hometown of Madison, WI, and across our country. Scholar and activist R. Richard ``Dick'' Wagner sadly passed away on December 13, 2021, at the age of 78. Dick devoted his life to public service and advancing our common good. In 1980, he was elected as the first openly gay member of the Dane County Board of Supervisors, where he served for 14 years, including 4 years as chair. I first met Dick in 1984. Fresh out of college and looking to connect with the local political scene, I was invited to a gathering of local progressive elected officials, labor union leaders, and civil rights and environmental activists to strategize about candidate recruitment for city council and school board seats to be contested in the spring elections. We met on the second floor of a popular local establishment, Mother's Pub, which had long been a gathering spot for local progressives. I observed how much respect Dick had earned from his fellow progressive leaders. Following a discussion about the issues the group hoped to advance, we broke into small groups. Dick Wagner led a discussion on opportunities to advance policies, initiatives, and ordinances to counter discrimination against our community. That day, Dick became my role model and mentor, and a lifelong friendship ensued.…”