MADISON, WI (WSAU) — As Pride Month comes to an end, Governor Tony Evers has issued an executive order calling for gender-neutral language options for identifying parents of a child on birth certificates.
In a press release on Monday Evers announced that in addition to the traditional “mother” and “father” language parents will have the option of being identified as simply “parent.”
“This change reflects my and my administration’s commitment to gender-neutral terminology and to recognizing that Wisconsin families are diverse and should be valued and respected,” said Gov. Evers. “I am glad to see this change being made as we continue to update our state policies and procedures to better reflect the Wisconsinites we serve.”
Other changes also include the option to designate the “parent giving birth” on the forms. Additionally, all forms will be made available in English, Spanish, and Hmong; a change that’s in line with other public-facing government forms.
Some health officials say that having birth certificates that don’t accurately reflect family dynamics can take away some of the joy of welcoming a new baby to the family. “We are so pleased that Wisconsin created a more inclusive birth certificate form to reflect the families of our state and community. This change allows all birthing parents to focus solely on their newborn,” said Sue Erickson, President and CEO of UnityPoint Health-Meriter in the Governor’s release.
Earlier this month Evers also introduced an executive order calling all state agencies to use gender-neutral language in external communications.
