Governor Tony Evers’ decision to replace traditional family terms like “mother” and “father” with gender-neutral language in Wisconsin’s latest budget bill has sparked controversy. The changes, which eliminate words such as “man,” “wife,” and “mother” in statutory language, replace them with terms like “inseminated person” and “parent who gave birth.”
Evers’ administration argues that the updated language is intended to be more inclusive and reflective of all family structures. Similar terminology changes have been made in other states and by some federal agencies in recent years. However, the move has drawn backlash from conservatives who view it as erasing traditional family roles and advancing a progressive ideological agenda.
State Rep. Amanda Nedweski (R) was among the first to publicly criticize the changes, calling them “radical” and “out of touch” with Wisconsin families. Many Republican lawmakers argue that the terminology is not only unnecessary but also confusing, particularly in legal and medical contexts.
“As a proud mother of two, it is absolutely insulting that the Governor, in his 2025-27 budget bill, would reduce me and millions of other mothers across Wisconsin to ‘inseminated persons,’” Nedweski said.
“It is not only deeply offensive, but it is an outright attack on the very essence of motherhood. It is unconscionable that the Governor has the audacity to take the most beautiful, life-giving act a woman can perform—bringing children into this world—and turn it into nothing more than gender-neutral, virtue-signaling jargon to appease his far-left base.”
Opponents say the decision reflects a broader effort to undermine traditional family values, while supporters claim it is about ensuring inclusive language in state laws.
With Wisconsin’s GOP-controlled legislature, it remains to be seen whether these changes will be challenged or reversed. Meanwhile, the debate over gender-neutral terminology in government policy continues to be a flashpoint in national politics.
