Wisconsin Democrats Celebrate Black History Month

MADISON, Wis. — In honor of Black History Month, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Vice Chair Felesia Martin and Chair Ben Wikler released the following statements:

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Vice Chair Felesia Martin:

“Every February, we take pride in commemorating Black History Month and lifting up the profound impact of Black leaders who have played such a pivotal role in shaping Wisconsin into a more just and inclusive state. To name just a few: Vel Phillips, a groundbreaking figure who made history as the first woman and African American to be elected to statewide office in Wisconsin, Lloyd Barbee, who fought to integrate Milwaukee public schools, and Donna Burkett and Manonia Evans, a trailblazing Black lesbian couple from Milwaukee who were early pioneers in the nationwide fight for LGBTQ+ marriage equality. The contributions of Black Wisconsinites have left an indelible mark on our state and our nation.

“As we celebrate our history this month and look to the future, it’s essential to recognize and honor the generations of Black Wisconsinites who have immeasurably enriched our country and our state and made it better and more free. Their resilience, determination, and commitment to justice have laid the foundation for progress. In doing so, we also commit to continuing their work by actively addressing racial inequities and uplift all members of our community. This ongoing effort is crucial for moving our state forward towards a more equitable and inclusive future for the generations yet to come.”

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler:

“During Black History Month, we honor the many Black Wisconsinites who, since well before our state’s founding, have contributed to Wisconsin’s and our nation’s history, and to recommit to advancing racial equity and justice throughout Wisconsin. From leaders who were shaped by their time here—such as Lorraine Hansberry, Stacy Abrams, and Vice President Kamala Harris—to the civic and political leaders, community organizers and union leaders, entrepreneurs and academics who work every day to advance our public life, Black Wisconsinites have left and continue to leave an enduring impact on our state. Black Wisconsinites have, throughout our history, built a better, more inclusive Wisconsin.

“Each and every day, Wisconsin Democrats work to advance racial equity so that all Wisconsinites can live with dignity, safety, and respect, and enjoy true equal opportunity. Black History Month is not merely an opportunity to reflect on the past, but also a challenge to all  to carry forward the work of those who have come before. We know the only way to continue this progress toward a more equitable Wisconsin is by staying committed to the fight. We uplift both the stories of struggle and of triumph of Wisconsin’s Black communities, and we look to these stories as vital guides for the journey ahead as we work to reelect President Biden and Vice President Harris, Senator Baldwin, Representatives Mark Pocan and Gwen Moore, and Democrats downballot this fall.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.