Lambda Political Caucus

Inspired by the launch of the Gay Rights Law, the Lambda Political Caucus formed in summer 1982 to advance equal rights for the gay and lesbian community. The focus of the organization was endorsing, promoting, and fundraising for candidates who supported equal rights. Like many early gay organizations, Lambda managed its membership through a mail order system and a post office box.

Lambda organized fundraisers, including trips to the Chicago Pride Parade, to support their advocacy agenda.

"Our message is that gays and lesbian vote...and will be ignored no longer. Much more remains to be done on a local, state and federal level....no one will help us if we don't help ourselves," wrote organizers in Escape Magazine (June 1982.)

In July 1982, Lambda endorsed Marty Aronson of TV6 News for Congress in the 5th U.S. Congressional District.

A separate organization, known as Milwaukee Area Lambda League, also worked to advance LGBTQ-supporting candidates, including Lynn Adelman for Congress and Paul Henningsen to the Milwaukee Common Council.

By late 1985, both organizations had disbanded.