Wisconsin's Black Caucus Uses Black History Month To Highlight Issues Facing People Of Color

Wisconsin’s Legislative Black Caucus is celebrating Black History Month in Milwaukee and Madison with events throughout February that address issues facing the black community.

So far this month, representatives have worked together to put on events focused on economic development and opportunities, and mental health. This week legislators are focusing on education and families — a collaboration between Rep. LaKeshia Myers (D-Milwaukee) and Rep. Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison). Myers represents the 12th District in the Wisconsin State Assembly.

Myers says this is one of her first major projects with the Black Caucus, and she's happy that everyone was able to come together and sponsor different events.

While discussing some of the reasons it's important to continue recognizing black history, Myers says it's important for people to know, " ... the civil rights movement did not start with a bus, and it did not end with a king. So, I think having people with an entire compass of what the civil rights movement looks like, the different iterations of the civil rights movement, and understanding that there are things that we still have to deal with today."

She also says addressing issues that affect communities of color, especially the African-American community cannot end just because Black History Month does.

"I think I can speak for all the members of the Legislative Black Caucus that we are unapologetically black, and that we are looking out for the interests of people of color, especially those of African-Americans, every day," she says.

This week's events will conclude Friday with a panel discussion on educational challenges in Wisconsin Schools. And next week, events will address criminal justice.

Support for Race & Ethnicity reporting is provided by the Dohmen Company.

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