THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

The mayor, who has been a vocal supporter of same-sex marriage, is urging backers of the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act to help Illinois "stand at the forefront" of ensuring equality for all.

In the message sent through the Equality Illinois listserv, Emanuel called on supporters to tell their stories to undecided lawmakers.

"The clock is ticking," Emanuel wrote. "The House is poised to vote on the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act in the coming days. And I know from talking with several of my friends in Springfield that some members of the House still haven't decided which way they'll vote."

A House vote on the bill is expected by mid-March. The bill has already passed the Senate and was voted out of the committee. The House is seen as the toughest challenge in passing the bill.