Vel Phillips

Registration Deadline Extended for Girls’ Day @ City Hall

Nominations now being accepted for 2026 Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award

Statement on the Passing of Basketball Legend and Attorney Clarence Sherrod

Monumental Sculpture Returning to Wisconsin Avenue to Honor Vel R. Phillips

Working in partnership, the City of Milwaukee, Milwaukee Downtown Business Improvement District No. 21, America’s Black Holocaust Museum, and Sculpture Milwaukee will install “Within the Folds (Dialogue 1)” (2020), a figural sculpture by the internationally renowned artist Thomas J. Price, in Vel R. Phillips Plaza on June 11.

Milwaukee Arts Board announces 2025 Artists of the Year, Friends of the Arts Award honorees

Council adopts resolution supporting special observance day in honor of Vel R. Phillips

Representative Shelia Stubbs Celebrates Vel Phillips’ 101st Birthday

Representative Moore Omokunde- Special Observance Day for Vel Phillips

Bronzeville Center for the Arts to Host Black History Month Events

Three free, public events highlight influence of Black artists on Milwaukee, community culture

Milwaukee County Historical Society Celebrates Black History Month with Art and Education Programs

Milwaukee County Celebrates Grand Opening of New Employee Health Clinics

Three new federally-funded clinics will provide easy-to-access health services for Milwaukee County employees

2024 Roundup- Gov. Evers Completes Annual 72-County Tour of Wisconsin

Representative Shelia Stubbs Celebrates Unveiling of Historic Vel Phillips Statue at State Capitol

Gov. Evers to Celebrate Vel Phillips Statue Unveiling at Wisconsin State Capitol Grounds

Phillips memorial marks first statue of a Black leader on Wisconsin State Capitol building grounds

Free Day + Celebration Commemorates Milwaukee Philanthropist Alfred Bader

For the third consecutive year, the Milwaukee Art Museum celebrates the birthday of the late Dr. Alfred Bader with Bader Philanthropies.

Exhibit honoring female Council members comes to City Hall

Wisconsin Democrats Celebrate Black History Month

Nominations For the 2024 Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award Are Now Being Accepted

2024 Proclaimed The Year of Vel Phillips

Free Day + Celebration Commemorates Hometown Hero Vel Phillips

The Milwaukee Art Museum partners with the Vel Phillips Legacy Initiative to kickstart the Year of Vel Phillips, a statewide commemoration in the trailblazer's honor.

Gov. Evers Announces “Celebrating 175 Years of Wisconsinites” Theme for 2023 State Capitol Holiday Tree

Governor invites students, families statewide to help celebrate Wisconsinites and decorate Capitol Tree

Road Closures for the Republican Debate

City of Milwaukee Announces Artist Opportunity at Vel R. Phillips Plaza

Future public gathering space to feature original art installation in honor of iconic Milwaukee political activist and civil rights leader

Gov. Evers Appoints Sarah Godlewski to Secretary of State

Secretary La Follette retiring after serving more than 40 years in office

County Executive David Crowley Declares Snow Emergency

Effective immediately, Friday, March 10

County Executive David Crowley Declares Snow Emergency

Beginning Thursday, February 16 at 6am

Nominations Now Being Accepted For 2023 Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award

The Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award is bestowed annually to recognize a female Milwaukeean who exemplifies Vel R. Phillips’ legacy of selfless service and trailblazing work toward improving the quality of life for residents in Milwaukee.

Chief Judge Mary Triggiano named director of Marquette Law School’s Andrew Center for Restorative Justice

Supervisors Clancy, Martinez Decry Passage of Budget Which Fails to Adequately Invest in Human Needs

Supervisors underline harm-reduction measures

Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award and Girls’ Day Scholarship honors bestowed

A well-deserved place of honor for Vel R. Phillips

Statement of Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs November 3, 2021

Katie Avila Loughmiller receives Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer award

In recognition of International Women’s Day

Joint Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

“Wisconsin Black History Moment” debuts on WMSE 91.7FM

New series highlights Black entertainers, politicians and community members

Nominations now being accepted for 2021 Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award

Council passes resolution in support of the erection of Vel Phillips statue in Madison

State Bar, Law Foundation support Vel Phillips statue on Capitol Square

Supervisor Clancy Applauds Activists on 200th Day of Protests

Will Address ‘The Peoples Revolution’ in Speech Tonight

Rep. Stubbs’ Statement on Vel Phillips Statue Advisory Committee

Road of Democracy Project Highlights Connection of Milwaukee’s Arts and Civic Life

Business Update

First Lady Evers Announces the Wisconsin 19th Amendment Celebration Committee’s “Women Who Inspire” Video and Final Nominee

Committee celebrates Vanaya Grice, Milwaukee

First Lady Evers Announces the Wisconsin 19th Amendment Celebration Committee’s Next “Women Who Inspire” Nominees

Committee celebrates Ntxhais "Chai" Moua, Stevens Point and Inez “Midge” Montano, Bayfield

First Lady Evers Announces the Wisconsin 19th Amendment Celebration Committee’s Next “Women Who Inspire” Nominee

Committee celebrates Sharlen Moore, Milwaukee

First Lady Evers Announces the Wisconsin 19th Amendment Celebration Committee’s New “Women Who Inspire” Nominee

Committee celebrates Deanna Singh, Brookfield

First Lady Evers Announces the Wisconsin 19th Amendment Celebration Committee’s New “Women Who Inspire” Nominee

Committee celebrates Dr. Berdie Cowser of Milwaukee

Express Yourself Milwaukee Announces Daylong Farewell Celebration this Friday, December 13, 2019!

Farewell Celebration includes Six Pop-Up performances around Milwaukee and a Finale Show and Celebration at EXYOMKE Studio from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Supervisor Martin Supports Plan to Upgrade, Repair Youth Facilities

"It is important to have our kids close to home and close to their families while receiving culturally relevant treatment that meets their needs."

Council Needs to Direct Resources Toward Citizen/Community Priorities: Our Neighborhoods

Statement from Aldermen Bob Donovan and Mark A. Borkowski May 23, 2019

In Honor of International Women’s Day

I urge my fellow citizens to reach out today and thank (and/or hug if it’s someone close!) the women who make a difference in making your lives and our world better every day.

Rep. Moore’s Bill Honoring Vel R. Phillips’s Legacy is Signed into Law

"Vel was a soldier for civil rights."

Legislation Designating the Vel R. Phillips Post Office Building in Milwaukee Passes the Senate

"Vel contributed so much at every level and paved the way for other Wisconsinites to help make a difference in people's lives."

The Harambee Revival Continues

Historic renovations of the underutilized Nunn Bush Shoe Factory and vacant former Fifth Street School are a dream come true for seniors, veterans, jobs seekers… and the late Welford Sanders. Presenters and guests include City of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, the family of Welford Sanders, community members and project partners.

Special ceremony to mark naming of Vel R. Phillips Ante Chamber

News release from Alderman Cavalier Johnson

African-American Attorneys Host Scholarship Dinner in Honor of Vel Phillips and Dale Phillips

The 28th Annual VelanDale Scholarship Dinner celebrates and honors the achievements of the late Vel Phillips and Dale Phillips, and the next generation of Wisconsin African-American Lawyers.

The Collective PAC Endorses Mahlon Mitchell for Governor of Wisconsin

Today’s endorsement joins Mahlon Mitchell’s growing list of support.

Milwaukee Board of School Directors Moves District Forward at July Board Meeting

Agenda items include Dr. Posley's instruction plan, new appointments, charter and partner contracts

Committee a unanimous ‘yes’ on proposal to rename anteroom in honor of Vel Phillips

News release from Alderman Cavalier "Chevy" Johnson

Governor Walker Announces Plan to Name Future Milwaukee State Office Building After Vel Phillips, Civil Rights Pioneer & Former Wisconsin Secretary of State

The new building will replace the current Milwaukee State Office Building at 6th and Wells Street.

The Collective PAC Endorses Mandela Barnes for Lieutenant Governor

Barnes is one of just 9 statewide candidates across the country to receive their endorsement, and the only candidate from Wisconsin

Milwaukee Turners Welcome Naming 4th Street in Honor of Vel Phillips

The Milwaukee Turners were founded in 1853 by immigrants and refugees from Germany who became strong abolitionists and allies of Frederick Douglass.

Governor Walker Orders Flags to Half-Staff Honoring former Secretary of State Vel Phillips

Governor Scott Walker ordered flags to half-staff on Saturday, May 5, 2018.

Arts @ Large to hold gallery opening in honor of civil rights hero Vel Phillips

The event will be held Friday, April 20 at Arts @ Large, 908 S. 5th St., from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Supervisor Moore Omokunde Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Attorney, Alderwoman, Judge and Secretary of State Velvalea Phillips

"Vel Phillips fought against systemic oppression before anyone really knew what that was."

Inspired and emboldened by a true stateswoman, Vel Phillips

Statement of Common Council President Ashanti Hamilton - April 18, 2018

A titan no longer with us

Statement on Vel Phillips from Alderman Khalif J. Rainey - April 18, 2018

Governor Walker Releases a Statement on the Passing of Former Wisconsin Secretary of State Vel Phillips

"She was a legend in Milwaukee and in Wisconsin - not only for her many firsts but for her passion."

Statement on the passing of the Honorable Vel Phillips

“My deepest condolences to her family and those who know and love her. May she rest in peace.”

On the public service of Vel Phillips

Statement of Alderman Jim Bohl - April 18, 2018

In memory of legend Vel R. Phillips

"Her legacy and strength in the face of hatred and injustice stays with us now as we continue her march."

Jewish Museum Milwaukee Exhibit Recounts Jewish, African American Alliance for Civil Rights

Museum forms committee of local leaders dedicated to ongoing mutual advocacy for equality

District Attorney John Chisholm earns support of community leaders, elected officials, labor unions, citizen organizations, and law enforcement groups

Chisholm, a veteran of the United States Army, was first elected in 2006 after serving 12 years as an assistant prosecutor, including leading the gun unit.

Mandela Barnes Announces Key Community Endorsements

Key Community Leaders and More Progressive Organizations Endorse New Leadership They Can Count On

The Honorable Vel Phillips endorses District Attorney John Chisholm

“John Chisholm has dedicated his career to serving justice, and he has my full support,” said Secretary Vel Phillips,

Ready to Work

I am looking forward to serving the interests of district residents on Milwaukee's Common Council.

Johnny Thomas Announces Plan to Improve Transparency in Comptroller’s Office

Thomas pledged to develop and implement an online transparency platform to provide in depth, comprehensive financial data to City of Milwaukee residents

Vel Phillips Endorses Chevy Johnson

"Growing up in Milwaukee, Vel Phillips is one of those people who inspired me to get involved in politics."

Civil Rights Leader and Wisconsin Icon Attorney Vel Phillips Endorses Bailey Campaign:

“Keith Bailey is the most experienced & best choice for Milwaukee’s 2nd District Alderman”

Civil Rights Pioneer Vel Phillips Endorses Judge JoAnne Kloppenburg for Supreme Court

Vel Phillips, a trailblazing civil rights and community leader, has endorsed Judge JoAnne Kloppenburg for the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Rep. Gwen Moore Honors Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) issued the following statement:

Supervisor Patricia Jursik Introduces Resolution to Downsize County Holdings

Formal Facilities Strategic Plan Adoption

Civil Rights Champion Vel Phillips Endorses Jonathan Brostoff for Assembly

Brostoff campaign continues momentum towards August election

46th Annual National Black Law Students Association Convention at the Hilton 3/12-16

Convention at Hill in March

Common Council to honor Vel Phillips & Willie Hines

Attorney Vel Phillips and former Common Council President Willie L. Hines, Jr. will be recognized during tomorrow’s (Tuesday, March 4) regular meeting of the full Council at City Hall.

“Sisters of Freedom” Display Showcased at the Milwaukee County Courthouse

A unique art display honoring African American women from the 1800’s to present day will be on display on the third floor of the Milwaukee County Courthouse through the end of the month. "Sisters of Freedom", African American Women Moving Us Forward, is on loan from Mount Mary University.