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Our next meeting/program is July 6th from 7-8:30 pm, Citizen Action will address the fight against Wisconsin's gerrymandered districts and voter disenfranchisement.
DOING YOUR PART TO END RACISM Ending racism in the Milwaukee area requires the involvement and support of everyone.
YOUR TIME, SKILLS, AND COMMENTS
Please fill out RID's questionnaire and help us move the needle forward for racial justice and equity.
Opportunities to respond to “criminal injustices”
This issue of our e-newsletter reflects the deeply troubling state of our criminal justice system – from the “not guilty” verdicts in the trials related to the police killings of two black men -- Philando Castile in St. Paul and Sylville Smith in Milwaukee – to the unacceptable and inhumane conditions at the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF), where thousands of ex-prisoners trying to re-establish themselves in their communities are re-imprisoned for “crimeless revocations” – the practice of re-incarcerating people on probation, parole, or extended supervision for violating rules of supervision that do not involve new crimes.
We have included details of the campaign being launched by EXPO (Ex-prisoners Organizing) to close the MSDF. We hope you will support their campaign by attending the launch event on June 29, by signing the online petition and/or by making a donation to support their work.
You will also find a powerful message from Rev. Dr. Christian Scharen, a white faith leader calling on the white faith-based community to respond to the acquittal in the Philando Castile trial with a commitment to become more deeply engaged in racial justice work – an appeal that could apply to many more than the faith-based community.
One of Dr. Scharen’s 5 recommendations is to become better educated about our nation’s racial history. In Milwaukee, we are fortunate to have a fabulous local historian -- Reggie Jackson, Head Griot of America’s Black Holocaust Museum and member of our Rid Racism Board. Reggie has been attracting standing room only crowds for his popular lectures on segregation, slavery and Jim Crow and he is scheduled to present two free public lectures on June 24 and June 28. (Details below.)
You’ll also see details about an upcoming guest speaker Michael Scott, director of the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing, who will be coming to Milwaukee for two presentations on June 26 that will focus on new responses to policing that are preventive in nature.
You will also find info about numerous other local events sponsored by racial justice organizations, and we encourage you to visit our Facebook page for an even more extensive listing of relevant local events. We hope the information in this issue will encourage you to continue to explore ways that you can be an effective ally in our community’s efforts to rid racism in Milwaukee.
Jaime Alvarado and Pat Katisch,
Co-Chairs, Rid Racism Milwaukee
Support launch of EXPO’s campaign to close down Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility – film premiere, march, vigil June 29
EXPO (Ex-Prisoners Organizing) will officially launch its campaign to close the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF).with a special film screening and panel discussion on Thursday, June 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. in Room M605 at Milwaukee Area Technical College, 700 W. State St., Milwaukee.
Attendees will be able to watch the premiere of Tim Coursen’s video about the MSDF. Mr. Coursen is an independent producer who has made several videos about Wisconsin’s unjust penal system. A panel of EXPO leaders will respond to this video, followed by remarks from Janos Dev Marton, who managed the JustLeadershipUSA's #CLOSErikers Campaign, which prompted New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to commit to closing Rikers. At 6 pm, attendees will be encouraged to join a march to the MSDF, 1015 N 10th St., for a press conference and prayer vigil for all of the people who have died in MSDF. (Please click on the links below to RSVP and/or sign the petition to Gov. Walker to close MSDF. EXPO needs 232 more signatures to reach their goal of 800.) click to read more
One white minister responds to the acquittal in the murder of Philando Castile
By the Rev. Dr. Christian Scharen, Vice President of Applied Research and the Center for the Study of Theological Education at Auburn Seminary.
Editor’s Note: While Rev. Scharen is primarily addressing faith leaders, his message could apply to any of us who were deeply troubled by the “not guilty” verdicts in the recent trials for police charged with killing Philando Castile in St. Paul and Sylville Smith in Milwaukee.
Almost a year ago, as I filed into the St. Paul Cathedral, a woman in front of me leaned into the open casket where Philando Castile lay and said, in a broken halting voice, choking back tears, “Philando, your life mattered.” Click to read more
Reggie Jackson to present Pro-Slavery/Anti-Slavery Lecture
June 24 at Milwaukee Public Central Library
Reggie Jackson will present a special lecture on “A Nation Divided: Pro-Slavery and Anti-Slavery in Antebellum America” from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Milwaukee Public Central Library, 814 W. Wisconsin Ave., in the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room on the 2nd Floor. Reggie is Head Griot and Historian for America’s Black Holocaust Museum and a member of the Rid Racism MKE Board.
Before the Northern and Southern States took up arms against each other, abolitionists and proslavery factions waged battle through the printed word. Join Reggie as he explains the development and tactics used by pro- and anti-slavery advocates during the most turbulent time in American history.
A selection of original documents, treatises, and newspapers from both sides of the debate will be on display including issues from William Lloyd Garrison’s The Liberator. For more information, call 414-286-3071.
Michael Scott, director of the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing to speak at Marquette University and Black Historical Society June 26
As part of its “On the Issues” series of public discussions, Marquette University is hosting “On the Issues with Mike Gousha” – an interview with Michael Scott, director of the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Monday, June 26 at Eckstein Hall in the Lubar Center on the MU Campus, 1215 W. Michigan St., Milwaukee. (A map is included in the link below.) Although the program is free, persons must RSVP through the registration link. https://law.marquette.edu/current-students/issues-michael-scott
NOTE: If you cannot attend the day program, the same speaker will be a part of a town hall meeting and panel discussion on “How Do We Address the Rising Violence in Milwaukee?” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, June 26 at the Black Historical Society, 2620 W. Center St., Milwaukee. The program is being sponsored by the NAACP and the Community Coalition 4 Quality Policing.Click here to read more
TenthTalks Townhall: panel to discuss “Mainstream Media Portraying Violence in MKE” at Today’s TMJ4 studios June 27
In light of an already violent start to summer in Milwaukee, State Representative David Bowen will host a FREE community forum on June 27 on media's role in how Milwaukee is portrayed and the community's role to push more positive stories to media sources. The discussion will be held at the WTMJ – Today’s TMJ4 studios at 720 E. Capitol Dr. from 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27.
Speakers and panelists will join the conversation to identify mainstream media's impact on how Milwaukee is viewed outside of Milwaukee, their role and how that role can be redefined to show an inclusive angle moving forward. Although this discussion is free, pre-registration is required as we will be in the TMJ4 studios. To order your ticket, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/1283363838443341/
Reggie Jackson to discuss “The Hidden Impact of Segregation on Waukesha County” June 28 at Waukesha Public Library
The next public presentation of Reggie Jackson’s popular lecture on “The Hidden Impact of Segregation” will be held on Wednesday, June 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Waukesha Public Library, 321 Wisconsin Ave., Waukesha. Reggie has been presenting this popular free program to standing room only crowds at community sites throughout the spring. He is the Head Griot and Historian of America’s Black Holocaust Museum and a Board Member of Rid Racism MKE. Join Reggie as he looks at the historical forces that created residential segregation and they negatively impact communities.
UBLAC Mass Meeting to be held at Frank Zeidler Center July 2
A UBLAC (Uplifting Black Liberation and Community) Mass Meeting will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 2 at the Frank Zeidler Center for Public Discussion located inside Redeemer Lutheran Church, 631 N. 19th St. (19th and Wisconsin Ave.) The public is welcome to attend and support UBLAC’s general meeting. The entrance is in the back of the church. It is handicap accessible. UBLAC looks forward to building, engaging, educating, and working with anyone who wants to offer support.
UBLAC is a coalition led by Black Women, Queer, and Trans folks working towards Black liberation with people of African heritage in Milwaukee to equip, connect and educate Black communities with resources and opportunities that will help provide a sustainable environment free from oppressive systems. This begins by accessing education about potential impact on the community and how to heal from post-traumatic slave syndrome. For more information: contact UBLAC via email ublac.2016@gmail.com or call 414-409-3833. https://www.facebook.com/UBLACMKE/
Rid Racism MKE to present “Citizen Action’s Organizing Cooperative” July 6
On July 6, Rid Racism Milwaukee will host a “Citizen Action Update” featuring Anna Dvorak, Lead Organizer of Citizen Action’s Organizing Cooperative. The program will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 6 at the Nonprofit Center of Milwaukee, 2819 W. Highland Boulevard. Ms. Dvorak will share information about Citizen Action’s role in the ongoing struggle for fair elections (gerrymandering and voter disenfranchisement), health care, economic justice and media accountability.
Public “Conversation on Race” set for July 11 at Brown Deer United Methodist Church
A public “Conversation on Race” will be held Tuesday, July 11 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Brown Deer United Methodist Church, 5736 W. Brown Deer Rd., Brown Deer. The “Conversation” is part of an ongoing series of public discussions on race being sponsored by the church. “Conversations on Race” is for people who are ready to discuss how we are approaching racial issues both personally and systemically. It is a time to learn about the fears, angers, prejudices, systemic privileges and spiritual power that we each hold. Valeria Banks will be leading us leading through a crossover exercise so we can physically see how privilege impacts or doesn't impact by who moves forward.
ACLU and Urban Underground schedule Summer Justice Institute for high school students
The ACLU of Wisconsin and Urban Underground have developed a Summer Justice Institute, which will be held Monday, July 24 through Friday, August 4, 2017; 10am to 4pm at UW-Milwaukee. Only 40 high school students will be able to attend this two-week intensive camp experience teaching essential leadership and social justice issues, skills, and techniques for civic engagement. Application here: http://aclu-wi.org/resource/summer-justice-institute-participation-form.
African Cultural Festival set for July 22 at Brown Deer Park
The 2017 African Cultural Festival will be held from 12 noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 22 at Brown Deer Park, picnic areas 2,3,4,5 at 7835 N Green Bay Rd. A celebration of African Cultural Heritage, the festival will feature music, drumming, dancing, poetry, ethnic food, soccer games, cultural education, children’s activities, a fashion show and a Family Health Fair sponsored by MILAWA. Admission is free with the donation of any non-perishable food for the Hunger Task Force.
SURJ MKE to host “Radical Seeds Rising: Camp-Out” July 21-23
You are invited to the 1st annual convening of Radical Seeds Rising -- a social justice camp-out for Wisconsin and Chicago SURJ (Showing Up for Racial Justice) chapters, UBLAC, and Madison's YGB members and their families, looking to build and deepen their relationship with one another and with social justice work. The camp-out will be held Friday-Sunday, July 21-23 at the Neighborhood House-Milwaukee, W2650 County Road MM, Neosho, WI 53059.
This is a FREE 3-day tent camp-out. Saturday and Sunday breakfast and Saturday lunch will be provided. There are indoor bathrooms, showers, and a full kitchen, and grills available outside. There are also hotels located in Iron Ridge which is about a 10-15 minute drive north from the camp grounds if camping outside isn't your jam. Click to read more
CHANGING AMERICA EXHIBIT: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863 and the March on Washington, 1963 – through June 30
Check out this exhibit at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., Racine, WI 53403. Check the website calendar for times and additional details: http://www.racinelibrary.info/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mass Imprisonment in America: A Presentation by Sam Mihara, Prisoner at the Heart Mountain Relocation Center 1942-1945
Monday, July 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at St. Matthew's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1615 N. Wauwatosa.
The YWCA is looking for the right person to help lead the way for its racial justice training efforts: “A self-starter with deep understanding of racial justice, anti-racism, or anti-oppression theories and practices, your ability to develop curriculum, facilitate, and lead groups through experiential and transformational learning on issues of race and racism is critical to this position.” Read job description at: http://files.constantcontact.com/5dda0e2a401/6142d188-836c-4b43-8902-e9f8d6bc088f.pdf. Resumes should be submitted to: cv@ywcasew.org
“Unlearning Racism: Tools for Action” registration open for fall session
Looking for an opportunity to learn about the history and impact of racism and what you can do about it? Join us for our next Unlearning Racism: Tools for Action series starting in September. Facilitated dialogue, activities, documentaries, and listening pairs will move you forward in addressing racism where and when you can. This is a 6-session series that meets from 1 to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays from Sept. 20 through Nov. 29. This is an excellent, comprehensive program offered twice per year. Visit the YWCA website to learn more and register. http://www.ywcasew.org/site/c.7oJELQPwFhJWG/b.8090727/k.3B60/Unlearning_Racism_Tools_for_Action.htm
Everytown Wisconsin registration open for August 6-11
Sat, June 24 8 a.m. – 11a.m. St. Matthew CME Church, 2944 N. 9th St., Milwaukee
Community Brainstorming Conference Breakfast Forum will begin with breakfast at 8 a.m. followed by a program at 9 a.m. featuring members of the Social Development Commission discussing “Pathways from Poverty to Success in a Changing World.” Panelists are all Commissioners on the SDC: Lelah Huntley, George Matthews, ViAnna Jordan, Alma Ramirez, Vincent Bobot. Moderator: ViAnna Jordan. Chair: Hon. Russell Stamper Sr. All are Invited. http://www.communitybrainstorming.org/
Heal The Hood Fest June 24
Join the community for the launch of Heal the Hood Fest!! Vendors, free food, live entertainment and so much more ! 12 noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 24 at 33rd and North Ave. RSVP using this link: http://www.hthmke.eventbrite.com/
Monday June 26th 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Zablocki Library, 3501 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee. County Supervisor Marina Dimitrijevic will discuss the non-discrimination resolution she authored, ICE activities, and how we can be of help to our undocumented neighbors. Sponsored by Indivisible Milwaukee. https://www.facebook.com/events/135338387037639
Coping with PTSD program June 26
Monday June 26, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
NAMI Office, 3200 S. 3rd St., Unit 6, Milwaukee.
NAMI Greater Milwaukee will host a presentation on "Coping with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)" by veteran Mark Flower, co-founder of DryHootch. He will share his recovery and will describe how to recognize the signs and symptoms of PTSD, basic coping strategies to help manage symptoms, and resources on where to seek help.
Community Justice Council to discuss “Re-entry”
Wed, June 28 9:30am – 11:00am Clinton Rose Senior Center, 3045 N. Martin Luther King Dr., Milwaukee. Milwaukee Community Justice Council Meeting of the Whole will discuss "Re-entry."
2136 N 21st St Milwaukee, Wisconsin Wed, July 26, 5.30 p.m.
In the immediate aftermath of the fatal 2016 police shooting of Philando Castile in a Minnesota suburb, there were heartwrenching moments shared in the back of a police car between Castile's girlfriend and her daughter. The video released shows Diamond Reynolds with her four-year-old daughter. An emotional Reynolds is heard shouting an expletive, and her daughter pleads with her to be quiet so that she won't "get shooted." Later, when Reynolds says she wishes she could take her handcuffs off, her daughter again implores: "No, please don’t, I don’t want you to get shooted."
These pain-filled words "I Don't Want You To Get Shooted” will be the theme for our Second Annual Black Lives Matter event at Alice's Garden Urban Farm. Join us as we lift up community voices and concerns as we all struggle to find our way through the, too-often, lack of justice and compassion in this nation for Black people.
For more information, contact Malkia Stamply-Johnson at (414) 426-7249 or
Ending racism in the Milwaukee area requires the involvement and support of everyone.
YOUR TIME, SKILLS, AND COMMENTS
Please fill out RID's questionnaire and help us move the needle forward for racial justice and equity.
DONATION Please consider making a donationto Rid Racism Milwaukee. We are a total volunteer group of people from the greater Milwaukee area who are working together to do whatever we can to end racism in our community. We have no support staff and no one receives any pay. Yet, we have expenses, including rent for our meetings and special events.
Thank you.
Pat Katisch and Jaime Alvarado, co-chairs
Rid Racism Milwaukee
A coalition dedicated to building allies and change agents to dismantle
all forms of racism and racial inequities through education, dialogue, collaboration and action.
launch its campaign to close the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF).with a special film screening and panel discussion on Thursday, June 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. in Room M605 at Milwaukee Area Technical College, 700 W. State St., Milwaukee.
Antebellum America” from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Milwaukee Public Central Library, 814 W. Wisconsin Ave., in the Richard E. and Lucile Krug Rare Books Room on the 2nd Floor. Reggie is Head Griot and Historian for America’s Black Holocaust Museum and a member of the Rid Racism MKE Board.
Issues with Mike Gousha” – an interview with Michael Scott, director of the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Monday, June 26 at Eckstein Hall in the Lubar Center on the MU Campus, 1215 W. Michigan St., Milwaukee. (A map is included in the link below.) Although the program is free, persons must RSVP through the registration link. 
a FREE community forum on June 27 on media's role in how Milwaukee is portrayed and the community's role to push more positive stories to media sources. The discussion will be held at the WTMJ – Today’s TMJ4 studios at 720 E. Capitol Dr. from 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27.
will be held on Wednesday, June 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Waukesha Public Library, 321 Wisconsin Ave., Waukesha. Reggie has been presenting this popular free program to standing room only crowds at community sites throughout the spring. He is the Head Griot and Historian of America’s Black Holocaust Museum and a Board Member of Rid Racism MKE. Join Reggie as he looks at the historical forces that created residential segregation and they negatively impact communities.
