Pro-LGBT Group to Counter-Protest Downers Grove Rally Against Same-Sex Marriage

A civil rights group is planning to counter-protest a rally against same-sex marriage Saturday outside State Rep. Ron Sandack's office in Downers Grove.

The Illinois Family Institute—a conservative non-profit dedicated to "upholding and re-affirming marriage, family, life and liberty" through Judeo-Christian teachings and traditions—said on its website Monday that its members will hold a "Defend Marriage Rally" at 11 a.m. Saturday in front of Sandack's office, located at 633 Rogers St.

In response to the rally, pro-LGBT groups the Civil Rights Agenda and the Gay Liberation Network have organized a counter-protest at the same time and location.

CRA representatives said their counter-protest will be a "peaceful demonstration."

The Illinois Family Institute opposes Senate Bill 10—the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act—which was passed by the Illinois Senate in February and is awaiting a vote by the House. In addition to allowing same-sex couples to enter into civil marriages, the legislation would protect churches and religious groups from being required to perform or recognize those unions.

The IFI claims on its website that same-sex marriage in Illinois would "negatively affect every aspect of our society and have disastrous consequences for children."

"We need your help to protect God's institution of marriage and protect the children of Illinois!" the website states.

Sandack is one of only two Republicans in the Illinois House that have publicly supported the same-sex marriage bill, the other being Rep. Ed Sullivan Jr. of Mundelein.

In a letter to his constituents in the 81st District, Sandack defended his decision to support marriage equality.

"Nothing about permitting two loving adults to marry violates our conservative values; rather, it encourages them," Sandack said. "Same sex marriage promotes a stable relationship between two people which is a true conservative value. Legalizing same sex marriage strengthens our appreciation for families and promotes our American ideal of equal rights under the law."

The IFI said they plan to invite Sandack to speak to his constituents about marriage and how he plans to vote if SB10 is called. 

Sandack said on his Twitter account Wednesday that he heard about the event through a Google alert, and will not attend due to prior commitments. Still, he offered the IFI his best regards.

"I wish to welcome all friends politely petitioning state government about an important issue," he said.
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