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The pandemic won’t stop Juneteenth Day: Here’s where and how you can celebrate | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
June 18, 2020
Milwaukee will once again celebrate Juneteenth Day on Friday — in person and online. The day marks the end of slavery in the U.S. (File photo by Sue Vliet)
For the first time in 49 years, Milwaukee’s annual Juneteenth Day Street Festival will not be celebrated on North Martin Luther King Drive.
In place of the usual parade and street festival, the Northcott Neighborhood House is planning virtual events for Friday. Juneteenth Day celebrates the end of slavery in the United States.
In Milwaukee, the celebration usually draws people of all ages by the thousands.
On Friday, TMJ4 News, a news partner of the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service, will air clips about the holiday’s rich history and feature historians and community members discussing what the day means to them.
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“We were planning to do an event later in the year,” said Fran Lee of Northcott Neighborhood House, a multipurpose community center that has been one of the anchor organizations for the yearly celebration. “But we don’t know when the coronavirus crisis will be over, so we had to do something.”
Milwaukee has celebrated Juneteenth Day since 1971. This year, the popular street festival sponsored by Northcott Neighborhood House has been canceled. But there are plenty of virtual and in-person events to mark the day. (File photo by Sue Vliet)
Northcott Neighborhood House partnered with the TV station and Bader Philanthropies to find a creative way to celebrate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Monday, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley and County Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson announced that Milwaukee County employees will have a floating holiday on June 19 to mark the day.
In addition, Gov. Tony Evers on Tuesday said the Juneteenth flag will be raised over the Wisconsin State Capitol beginning at sunrise on Friday.
“As a state that sees some of the most disparate outcomes for Black Wisconsinites, it is as important as ever that we recognize and reflect on our history, celebrate Black resiliency and move forward in solidarity and strength toward a more racially equitable and just society,” Evers said in a news release.
Other Juneteenth events
Safe and Sound will host a virtual Juneteenth via Facebook Live on Friday.
The organization, which works to unite residents, youth, law enforcement and community groups to create safer neighborhoods throughout the city, is usually in charge of the youth stage, which is used to amplify youth voices and creativity.
This year, Safe and Sound leaders intend to provide a virtual space for youth.
“Every year we are able to educate young people in the space on the importance of Juneteenth and provide entertainment,” Damien Smith, the youth program manager, said. “We want to maintain the education and entertainment aspect of Juneteenth.”
The event will take place from noon to 2 p.m. and include prerecorded performances, resident testimonials about their favorite Juneteenth moments and history lessons about the holiday.
COA Youth and Family Centers will host a community cleanup and peaceful protest in celebration of Juneteenth Day. The cleanup and protest will take place at Moody Park, 2320 W. Burleigh St.
The cleanup will start at 10 a.m. and is open to the community.
Ashley Harrell the director of Goldin Center, said the day will include a mobile studio, yoga and poster-making for youth.
Peoples Movement presents a Juneteenth sit-in at noon Friday at 3300 N. Martin Luther King Drive.
The BLACK WMNZ Emancipation Protest and Juneteenth Block Party begins at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Sojourner Family Peace Center, 619 W. Walnut St., and ends with a block party from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Alice’s Garden, 2136 N. 21 St.
A Juneteenth Day and Sickle Cell Awareness Blood Drive will take place throughout the day and is being sponsored by Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin. To schedule an appointment, click here or call 877-232-4376.
The Juneteenth Youth Rally and Expo takes place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Carmen Middle/High School of Science and Technology’s Northwest Campus, 5496 N. 72 St. Masks will be provided.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 17, 2020

source: news-milwaukeenns

license: Creative Commons - Attribution - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

author: Adam Carr


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5 things to do and know the weekend of June 19 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
June 19, 2020
The Historic Concordia Neighborhood Home Tour is going virtual on Saturday. (Photo provided by Historic Concordia Home Tour 2020)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Diverse Dining’s Father’s Day drive-in: Saturday, June 20
Diverse Dining is hosting a Father’s Day drive-in from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. The drive-in will be held at the Parklawn Assembly of God parking lot, 3725 N. Sherman Blvd. Fathers eat free and meals cost between $6 to $12. Food tickets can be purchased in advance online.
2. Parking meters have been reinstated
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Earlier this week, the City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works reinstated the use of parking meters. People are encouraged to use the MKE Park app for a contactless payment method. Non-metered restrictions, including daytime parking permits, alternate-side parking and night parking permits, are not being enforced. Those restrictions will be resumed at a later date.
3. All Black Lives Matter march: Saturday, June 20
A Black Lives Matter march will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. The focus of this march is inclusivity, with an emphasis on All Black Lives Matter. The march will begin at 2288 N. Lake Drive and continue south.
4. We Care Crew’s community bike drive: Saturday, June 20
The We Care Crew is hosting a community bike drive from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. The bike drive will take place at Lincoln Park, 1301 W. Hampton Ave., and McGovern Park, 5400 N. 51st Blvd. Residents are encouraged to donate their gently used bikes. The bikes will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
5. Tour historic Concordia neighborhood homes: Saturday, June 20
The Historic Concordia Neighborhood Home Tour is going virtual on Saturday, June 20. Through the website or app, individuals can virtually tour over 30 homes and other iconic landmarks in Milwaukee. The virtual tours are 360-degree videos that include photos and more.
Bonus: Celebrate Juneteenth Day: Friday, June 19
Although the annual Juneteenth Day parade and street festival have been canceled due to COVID-19, the celebration will carry on. Read Princess Safiya Byers’ article on where and how to celebrate Juneteenth Day this year.
Bonus: The latest coronavirus coverage from NNS
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service reporters are hard at work bringing readers up-to-date information regarding coronavirus. Stay informed on coronavirus by following us on our Facebook page and subscribing to our daily newsletter. All coronavirus related articles can be found on this landing page. If you have a question or concern about coronavirus, send them in our way. We’re here to serve you.

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 18, 2020


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Four things you should know about Juneteenth Day in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz & Bridget Fogarty
June 19, 2020
(Photo provided by Juneteenth Day – Milwaukee)
Today is Juneteenth Day, a day of celebration and remembrance.
The tradition began upon the end of the Civil War and has carried on through the generations.
Here are some things you should know:
What is Juneteenth Day?
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Juneteenth Day celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that the Civil War had ended and with it, the enslavement of black people, according to Juneteenth Day Milwaukee, Milwaukee’s official Juneteenth Day website. This was two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
Upon hearing the news, people broke out into celebration. Eventually, that day became known as Juneteenth Day.
What is the history of Juneteenth in Milwaukee?
In 1971, Milwaukee celebrated its first Juneteenth Day. Since then, Milwaukee has hosted one of the largest Juneteenth events in the nation.
What is the significance of Juneteenth Day?
While Juneteenth Day is a day of celebration, it also focuses on heritage and ancestry.
The day is dedicated to reflecting on the past and progressing toward a brighter future.
What’s happening today?
Read Princess Safiya Byers’ article to find out how and where you can celebrate.

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz & Bridget Fogarty


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Meet (some of) the best dads in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
June 19, 2020
Happy Father’s Day Milwaukee!
This year, we reached out to several Milwaukeeans to ask them what makes the father or father figure in their life special. Here’s what they said.
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Joaquín Altoro and his daughter Melina Morales enjoy traveling together. (Photo provided by Melina Morales)
Melina Morales on her father, Joaquín Altoro
I love my dad because I know he always has my back. Having a parent who not only loves you but supports you and always does what they can to help you achieve your goals and dreams is so special and something I am very blessed to experience with my dad.
My dad and I have a very special relationship. His determination and hope that his children succeed and do the best they can have driven me to accomplish goals in my own life and has definitely shaped me into the woman I am today.
I love to travel and experience new things together. Whether it’s a family trip to Mexico or a night out in the city. I love spending time and enjoying experiences together.
Amaris Kaleka says she and her father Pardeep Kaleka share a lot of the same mannerisms. (Photo provided by Amaris Kaleka)
Amaris Kaleka on her father, Pardeep Kaleka
I am Pardeep Kaleka’s daughter, Amaris Kaleka. I have been blessed to be raised by him, and my mother of course, my entire life. He is truly one of a kind. It’s hard to explain, but the way he cares for people is the most special thing about my dad. I wouldn’t say it’s tough love, but he genuinely wants the best for everyone, even though they might not always realize that’s the case.
I guess you could say I’m a daddy’s girl. Maybe we have the classic father-daughter bond. I assume it’s because I am the only girl in the family and the oldest. He tells me all the time that I used to lay on his belly, and we would eat Oreos together, obviously I wouldn’t remember, but I’ll take his word for it. My mom likes to tell me that I am him. We have the same mannerisms, same way of doing things or taking on tasks. We even look similar. I’d say we have a really close, tight bond. I tell him mostly everything, so for that I’m lucky because that’s not a privilege everyone can have.
I love all the simple things we do, listening to music in the car with him, our walks, and sitting on the couch watching music videos at night. Like I said: We are very similar, so I’m pretty positive we enjoy the same things.
My dad is too far beyond three words for me to think of, however, I’d say he’s a driven person, always has the willpower and has a work ethic. He’s going to get done what needs to be done. He is also a very compassionate person, very loving and caring of everyone. Lastly, I would say he is selfless. I’m pretty sure he’s mentioned he dislikes that word, but that’s what I feel is the truth. Others will always come before himself, time and time again. All in all, we do not get along all the time, but my love for him has never dimmed. I wouldn’t be who I am today without my parents, I wouldn’t have the experiences I’ve had if it weren’t for them, and for that I am forever grateful to have him as my father.
Dennis Walton enjoys the Father Daughter Dance with his daughter. (Photo provided by Dell Williams)
Dell Williams on his friend Dennis Walton
Dennis Walton’s devotion to his three children is an inspiration for others, Dell Williams said.
Williams and Walton have been friends for the past 13 years. They first met on the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative. It was leaderless and Walton was instrumental in making sure the agency stayed afloat, Williams said.
After his children went out of state with their mother, Walton spent six years working to get them back. Although they only were able to return temporarily, Williams said Walton works hard to stay in touch.
Williams recalled that at the first Daddy Daughter Dance, Walton’s daughter was unable to attend. It was hard for him and he had to leave. However, Walton’s daughter has been able to attend recent dances. It’s been a joy to see them together, he said.
He noted that Walton could have given up, but he continues to soldier on and fight for his children.
Walton uses his experiences to encourage other fathers to be a part of their children’s lives, Williams said.
The Moore family enjoys watching movies together, especially Reggie Moore, a film fanatic. (Photo provided by Sharlen Moore)
Sharlen Moore on her husband, Reggie Moore
There are many characteristics that makes Reggie very special. What tops the list is that he is a great leader, not only with the community he serves, but also with his family. I could not have asked for a better partner.
I would describe the relationship I have with Reggie as being a true partnership. We wouldn’t be able to do the work we do or care for our family without the both of us recognizing our strengths and weaknesses and using it to care for our family. I am so grateful because it works for us!
One of the things we all love to do together is watch movies. Reggie is a movie fanatic, and we all enjoy watching a good movie together. We can’t wait till the theaters open back up!
Ian Bautista is quick to do what’s right, his wife, Elsa Diaz-Bautista, says. (Photo provided by Elsa Diaz-Bautista)
Elsa Diaz-Bautista on her husband, Ian Bautista
Ian and I have been committed partners (and friends) since 1991 and married for almost 26 years (our anniversary is July 4). We met as college students at Kansas State University.
Ian always puts others before himself. He’s a good friend. We, as a family, can depend on him to follow through with his commitments and to always think of our well-being before his own. He’s a good partner, dad and son. Even in cases where it requires sacrifice to do the right thing (usually helping people), he is quick to do what is right. Another thing that I love about Ian is that he’s always willing to be spontaneous if I have a suggestion or wild request.
I love to travel and to explore the world and new places here in Wisconsin, around the country and everywhere with him and with our daughter, Iana. Another favorite activity is talking – sometimes for hours on end. We process the world together and help to challenge one another’s beliefs and actions. We also love to cook, (eat and drink!) together. The kitchen in our house is a favorite place to spend time together cooking and sipping a glass of wine, sangria or a cocktail. Our cooking time is truly blissful.
He is truly my best friend, confidante and soulmate. No one knows me better and loves me as I am. It is an absolute blessing to know that another person is so willing to love another so deeply spite of one’s faults and shortcomings. I am so lucky to have found him and married him. I couldn’t ask for a better partner in life and father to our daughter.
Lamar Woods views Andre Lee Ellis as his earth father, mentor and friend. (Photo provided by Lamar Woods)
Lamar Woods on his earth father, Andre Lee Ellis
For Lamar Woods, Andre Lee Ellis is his pops, his earth father, his friend and his mentor. Ellis has a biological family and an earth family. He’ll take time away from his biological family to help his earth family, Woods said. Ellis is special because he provides resources to both families.
Woods enjoys siting and conversing with Ellis. They also enjoy listening to music together.
“I’m blessed to have him as stability in my life,” Woods said.
Related reading: Meet the best mothers in Milwaukee
Related reading: Single black fathers fight ‘deadbeat Dad’ stereotype


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5 things to do and know this week in Milwaukee: June 22 to June 27 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
June 22, 2020
The Fire and Police Commission is hosting a meeting to discuss community and police relations on Tuesday. (File photo by Edgar Mendez)
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by .
1. Section 8 housing choice voucher waiting list lotteryThe Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee is opening the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher waiting list lottery. Pre-applications will be accepted starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23 until 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 25. Applications will only be accepted online. Once the application closes, 3,000 households will be randomly selected. Those selected will be notified after Friday, July 31.
2. Mobile food pantry coming to AmaniAmani United, Feeding America, the Dominican Center and the Northwestern Mutual Foundation are bringing a mobile food pantry to the Amani neighborhood. The pantry will be open from 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, June 23 outside the Dominican Center, 2470 W. Locust St. A mask or face covering is required.
3. Bridging the divide: Milwaukee’s community and police relationsThe Fire and Police Commission is hosting a virtual meeting to discuss the state of Milwaukee’s community and police relations from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23. Milwaukee residents are invited to speak directly with the commissioners to address their concerns. Those interested in attending can reserve a spot to receive meeting details.
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The Milwaukee Urban League is hosting a Community Roundtable featuring youth voices from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24. State Rep. Kalan Haywood II will moderate the conversation, which will cover COVID-19, race relations, voting, youth mental health and the 2020 elections. Click here to register.
5. Voces de la Frontera legal clinicVoces de la Frontera is hosting a legal clinic from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 27. Those seeking help with workers’ rights, family rights or immigration can speak with a community attorney. Call Angel at 414-643-1620 to schedule an appointment. Services will be offered via the phone until the offices reopen.
The latest coronavirus coverage from NNS
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service reporters are hard at work bringing readers up-to-date information regarding coronavirus. Stay informed by following us on our Facebook page and subscribing to our daily newsletter. All coronavirus related articles can be found on this landing page. If you have a question or concern about coronavirus, send them in our way. We’re here to serve you.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 21, 2020


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Dear Class of 2020: Here are some pearls of wisdom from your fans | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Princess Safiya Byers, Bridget Fogarty & Ana Martinez-Ortiz
June 22, 2020
Members of the Milwaukee community offer their congratulations, inspiration and wisdom to the Class of 2020.
(Photo provided by Mayra Alaniz)
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Congratulations, 2020 graduates! You’ve made a mark on your family, community and city. Your name goes into the yearbook as a graduate, and it goes into your family’s heritage book as a striver.
Your community, whichever you belong to and identify with, is proud of you, and we are rooting for your potential. Graduation means that you’ve answered the challenge to learn, work hard and keep going. So take a moment to realize this amazing accomplishment and, after patting yourself in the back, keep going!
I know you will leave many more marks to come.
(Photo provided by Spring Holz Houston)
The Class of 2020 got the short end of the stick this year, let’s be clear. And though you didn’t get what we got when we graduated, you’re still the future.
In just a few years, you’ll be creating new jobs that we haven’t thought of yet with your talents. You have inspired so many of us so much thus far and will continue to, I’m sure.
Congratulations, Class of 2020; I hope you’re finding fun and safe ways to celebrate all of your many accomplishments.
(Photo provided by Darrin Madison)
What was meant to be a 2020 vision has left you blind without any support.
You never really got the chance to say goodbye to the friends you built bonds with over the past four years. You may have had to say goodbye to someone who was lost during this pandemic. Know that these experiences have laid a foundation for your class to build a better future and to find a vision.
With this newfound vision and your resounding resilience, I ask you to walk with purpose toward your dreams and carry those we have lost with you!
Congrats to the resilient Class of 2020!
(Photo provided by Cetonia Weston-Roy)
If life has not already taught you, this year certainly has. Life is unpredictable, change can be swift, and adults don’t always know what to do.
As you take this step, realize that the same is true for you. You won’t always know what to do when life goes awry — you will meet people who should stay at least 6 feet away. With all the uncertainty of life, it is still beautiful!
Plan, but don’t be so stubborn that you cannot pivot. Laugh often, but don’t hold in tears. Stand firm in who you are, but do not become stagnant.
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(Photo provided by Jackie Tate)
My message to all young adults embarking on your new journey of life: Say “I love me” in the mirror every day, even when you don’t feel well.
Travel and socializing should be on top of your list — it will broaden your minds and help with empathy.
If you know or feel you are making the wrong decision, go with your first mind and don’t do it — some mistakes you can’t recover from.
Lastly, honor your elders. You will be one someday.
In case you missed it: Showing off Milwaukee’s beautiful, resilient Class of 2020
In case you missed it: Five high school graduates who will give you inspiration


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Three things you should know about MPS’ decision to cut contracts with the Milwaukee Police Department | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
June 22, 2020
The school district will no longer “buy or maintain criminalizing equipment” such as metal detectors. South Division High School, 1515 W. Lapham Blvd., is one of many area high schools that have walk-through metal detectors at the main entrance. (File photo by Andrea Waxman)
The Milwaukee Public Schools’ Board of School Directors on Thursday voted unanimously to end all but one contract with the Milwaukee Police Department and directed the school district not to purchase new security equipment such as metal detectors.
The district still has a $400,000 contract with MPD for a truancy program required by state law. The board is weighing its legal options as it considers how to keep the funds in the school budget.
Here are three things you need to know about the decision:
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Until now, MPS has contracted with the Milwaukee Police Department to provide officers to act as School Resource Officers and provide event security. The contracts would have cost the district $478,242 during the 2020-’21 school year. On Thursday, the board voted unanimously to terminate contracts with the police department to provide School Resource Officers. The resolution was written by Directors Paula Phillips and Sequanna Taylor.
The contracts terminated by the School Board direct law enforcement officers to provide educational resources on such issues as alcohol, other drugs, laws, violence and crime prevention, as well as “the role of law enforcement in the educational setting.” The Police Department also consults with school administrators on matters of safety and security within the school building and provides security for large events.
Community members have argued that the presence of police in or around schools makes for an inherently unsafe environment for students, particularly students of color. Leaders Igniting Transformation, or LIT, a youth-of-color-led advocacy organization, has been organizing against a police presence in schools since its founding in 2017.
The school board’s vote “is a victory by and for Black and Brown students,” LIT executive director Dakota Hall said in a news release. “This resolution is the culmination of 2.5 years of work by LIT student leaders to defund police at MPS.”
Phillips said the concerns raised by students forced the Board of School Directors to evaluate, and ultimately, end the contract.
“Students kept saying over and over again that they didn’t want the police to be part of their educational experience,” Phillips said. “Even the police department put out a statement saying they understand why we would want to do this.”
The Milwaukee Teachers’ Education Association, or MTEA, the teachers union at MPS, also supported the board’s decision. MTEA President Amy Mizialko has also called on the city to reallocate its police budget to other services such as health care, housing and social services.
The Milwaukee Police Department received $297 million in funding from the city in its 2020 budget. This fact was not lost on Director Bob Peterson.
“The amount of money we’re talking about here is almost symbolic compared to the amount of money the city puts into the police force,” Peterson said. “Even if we were able to divest fully, that’s less than 0.002% of the police budget.”
MPS still has a $400,000 contract with the Milwaukee Police Department for the state-mandated Milwaukee Truancy Abatement & Burglary Suppression Program, or TABS. According to state law, a school district of MPS’ size must pay the salaries and fringe benefits of four law enforcement officers to work on truancy abatement and burglary suppression full time.
The board is studying ways to get out of this contract and is weighing its legal options. Board President Larry Miller, who proposed the idea, said he believes it may be possible to fulfill this contract without sending money to the police.
“I do not want to send this $400,000 to the police,” Miller said during Thursday’s meeting. “My thinking is that we do not spend this money until we get a judgment from our lawyers and have total clarity on whether or not we have to.”
The district will not “buy or maintain criminalizing equipment” such as metal detectors. Phillips said existing equipment will be phased out as it eventually breaks down.
“We keep learning more about the psychological effects that this equipment has on our students,” Phillips said. “To me, why would we maintain something if we’re not sold on whether it should be in schools altogether?”
For Angela Harris, an MPS teacher and chairwoman of the Black Educators Caucus MKE, eliminating security equipment is important because it forces the district to find alternative methods to keep students safe.
“It allows the district, educators and students to begin having conversations about different approaches to safety, what safety will look like without metal detectors and hand scanners.” Harris said.
Director Marva Herndon voted in favor of the resolution but expressed concern that removing security equipment could endanger students and community members who use school property for large gatherings.
“We have a responsibility to our students and the public,” Herndon said. “We cannot throw those responsibilities to the wind.”
In case you missed it: Educators push MPS to end contracts with the Milwaukee Police Department

author: Sam Woods


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OPINION: My transgender comrades and I are fighting for our lives and marching to be included | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jamila Dawn Mitchell
June 23, 2020
From the March with PRIDE for #BLACKLIVESMATTER on June 6, 2020. (Photo by Jamila Dawn Mitchell)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
Jamila Dawn Mitchell is a trans woman of color that’s been an activist, author and organizer for over a decade. She’s started nonprofits to service the mentally ill and has made a career as a healthcare systems administrator.
I’m afraid while I’m marching.
No matter how “peaceful” I protest, I know that the mere proclamation that I have a right to exist free of tyranny is a reason to have me killed – not just by the police. While racism has been recognized by Milwaukee as a public health issue, I am targeted by anti-transgender violence that the American Medical Association has called an “epidemic.”
As a Black transgender woman, I live in the same world that brutality reminded Muhlaysia Booker, “They hate us . . . They want us dead.” Last year’s incident where Muhlaysia was brutally beaten in Dallas could have been me — a man tried to follow me home just two months later after her incident.
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Every moment I walk out the door, it is either racism or transphobia that I have to deal with. It is mere luck that I have not been among the fifteen transgender people killed so far this year, simply for being ourselves. Yet, I march in a crowd knowing that many do not want out trans men and women to be visible.
Ignorance is not an excuse to hate us. And we aren’t new. Trans men and women have been the fire to modern civil rights movements for equality. Long before Madam Marsha P. Johnson, there was Lucy Hicks. As told by the blog TransGriot, Lucy Hicks was a Black trans woman is one of the earliest known advocates for trans rights and marriage equality. Following her marriage to a soldier in Ventura County, California, in 1944, she and her husband were found guilty of perjury despite her stance that she was always a woman. Later, the federal government would charge her for fraud and send her to prison. The reason I mention this — Black trans women have always been alive no matter how patriarchy tries to erase us.
And so, my transgender comrades and I march for the right to be included, to work, to be loved, to exist outside of tyranny. I am tired of the struggle to find a company that will employ me as I am. Transgender people are more likely to be unemployed, and many of us live well below the poverty line. Yet, money becomes the least of our concerns when we are not safe.
I am angry that before I could finish writing this article, another Black trans woman was killed in her home. In my hometown of Chicago, a trans woman named Selena Reyes-Hernandez was shot to death after she told her assailant that she’s transgender.
We are dying at the hands of patriarchy and white supremacy, too. I say the names of Riah Milton and Dominique “Rem’Mie” Fells. They were two beautiful Black trans women that were murdered on June 8 and 9, respectively. I mourn Tony McDade, the Black trans man that was shot by police in Florida while running.
Ignoring the significance of their individual deaths avoids foundations of violence in this country. The hatred that takes the lives of Black trans women comes from the same root of domestic violence, police brutality and racism. Which is why I, and other transgender people, are fighting for justice.
Riah Milton posted on Facebook in March, “Never been scared to struggle. Imma get it eventually.” We will eventually get the equality and justice for all Black lives, no matter how dangerous it is for us to be ourselves.

author: Jamila Dawn Mitchell


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104872799_731351517435775_7987384576750235401_n | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 22, 2020


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 22, 2020


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Post from Community: Shorewood teens win state and regional advocacy awards | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Shorewood FACT
June 23, 2020
Nia Kamara (left) and Kayla McPike (right) (Photos provided by Shorewood FACT)
Editor’s note: Our Posts from the Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
Nia Kamara and Kayla McPike, graduating seniors from Shorewood High School, were recently awarded prestigious “FACT Advocacy Awards” for their outstanding level of youth tobacco prevention advocacy work in the state. FACT, a program of the Wisconsin Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, is a youth-driven movement consisting of more than 2,500 members in 30 groups spread across the state. The program, which is celebrating its 19th year of existence on June 24, specializes in activism, peer-to-peer advocacy, media outreach, and outreach to local and state leaders to provide information on how tobacco is impacting local youth.
Kamara, who won the Statewide Advocacy Award for the second consecutive year, has been active with FACT for 7 years and served 6 years on the FACT statewide advisory board. She is recognized as a leader in youth tobacco prevention and advocacy and serves as a National Youth Ambassador for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.
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“I couldn’t have received this amazing award again if it wasn’t for my principal Mr. Kenney, my FACT coordinator Mr. Jordan and my FACT leadership team, TaNiya, Kayla, and Fednise,” said Kamara, who will attend Sarah Lawrence College in NY in the fall.
McPike, who won the Southeastern Regional Advocacy Award, has been actively involved in FACT for 5 years and served 4 years on the FACT state advisory board. She will attend UW-Whitewater in the fall, and will major in Communications with a focus in public relations, and minor in political science. McPike and Kamara co-founded the Shorewood Chapter of FACT in 2019 and have presented at local, state and national health conferences.
“I am very thankful to receive this award. I have dedicated years of my life to helping teens avoid tobacco and am honored that my hard work has been recognized by FACT,” McPike said.
The pair were recognized this year for their work to raise awareness about the impact of tobacco on youth, including participation in multiple media interviews, testifying at several public hearings related to tobacco, hosting a training on youth advocacy during the Wisconsin Legislative Black Caucus Lobby Day, and leading school-sponsored activities such as Taking Down Tobacco National Day of Action and a virtual rally featuring national youth tobacco prevention advocate Luka Kinard, among other advocacy work.
According to Shorewood High School Principal, Timothy Kenney, Kamara and McPike’s advocacy work has had an impact that goes far beyond the halls of his high school.
“Congratulations to Nia and Kayla on winning these prestigious awards! I am very proud of all of their efforts to educate both their peers and the larger surrounding communities about the dangers of tobacco use,” Kenney said.
Stephone Jordan, who served as a FACT adult advisor at Shorewood High School, said the teens helped to create a legacy of advocacy at the school.
“Their hard work and dedication to FACT youth has really paid off. They have paved the way for the youth behind them,” Jordan said.

author: Shorewood FACT


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 23, 2020


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Reporter’s Notebook: ‘I intend to give it my all’: Introducing Matt Martinez | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
June 23, 2020
I grew up in a small city you’ve probably never heard of — a place called Freeport, Illinois, to the south and west of here. Freeport’s a rural city that’s not without its charms, surrounded by smaller satellite communities built around agriculture. For 18 years, Freeport was my idea of what the world was like.
Then I came to Milwaukee.
I was a freshman at Marquette University, a journalism student who hadn’t really found his way when I first moved here. At the time, it felt like the biggest city in the world. It was daunting, at first, to navigate and to find my place. I learned to love it, though. That’s why I’m here.
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In an era of endless uncertainty, I always wanted to end up back here. Truth be told, I felt I had unfinished business. The Milwaukee community is a rich one, filled with stories that connect all of us. There is much to be addressed, and there is much to appreciate.
I’m here as a fellow for the Report For America program, which places reporters in local newsrooms and requires journalists to participate in public service projects.
Giving back to the community directly is one of the things I’m most excited about.
The Neighborhood News Service is a place where Milwaukee can be heard. I’m grateful to be part of this team, and I sincerely hope that my reporting will help make a difference.
Freeport will always be my home. Milwaukee, on the other hand, will always be my city, no matter where I go. I intend to give it my all.
Please reach out to me with tips and feedback at mmartinez@milwaukeenns.org

author: Matt Martinez


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NNS on WGLB: Jeff Roman discusses News414, the new reader-driven journalism texting service | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
June 24, 2020
(Photo by Adam Carr)
Jeff Roman joins Saryea Murchison and Dennis Walton of WGLB radio to discuss our new reader-driven journalism texting service, News414. Its focus is providing resources to equip residents to create a better, and more just and equitable Milwaukee.
To try out News414, you can text MILWAUKEE to 73224.
The project is a collaborative effort between Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service, Wisconsin Watch and Outlier Media.
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author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


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OPINION: We can change the world if we’re willing to learn and love | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Rick Deines
June 24, 2020
(Photo by Wes Tank)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
Rick Deines is a conversation facilitator with the Zeidler Group.
“If we — and now I mean the relatively conscious whites and the relatively conscious blacks, who must, like lovers, insist on or create, the consciousness of others — do not falter in our duty now, we may be able, handful that we are, to end the racial nightmare, and achieve our country and change the history the world.” James Baldwin, “The Fire Next Time.”
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Hearing Maya Angelou read James Baldwin’s words is both inspiring and instructive.  Inspiring because of the beautiful language. Instructive because of its analysis and proposal.
Baldwin’s words confronted me first in the disruptive mid-1960s in my neighborhood in Chicago. As relatively conscious whites, we committed ourselves to rid our nation of the racial nightmare. My family and I became enmeshed in the “movement” and were fundamentally changed by a church and city of relatively conscious Black people.
However, over 50 years later, the “racial nightmare” is too much with us. George Floyd’s death is a stark reminder of its presence.
We have lived in Milwaukee for nearly 30 years. We’ve graduated from and taught in its schools. We have worked in many of its neighborhoods. Relatively conscious Blacks have been the key in our own growth, inadequate as that seems at times.
Current marches and rallies in Milwaukee are evidence that relatively conscious young people are leading the various expressions of ‘Black Lives Matter,’ as the poster that says, “When Black Lives Matter, All Lives Matter” suggests.
They seem to know that when Baldwin speaks of “we,” he means both “relatively conscious whites and relatively conscious blacks.” He sees increased consciousness creating the force that is needed. Yet, he does not equate the experience of Blacks and whites. Nor does he limit a consciousness that stops short of change. His plea for consciousness is more than awareness. Rather he sees that increased consciousness of Blacks, whites and others as necessary for forward movement.
“Relative consciousness” differs for those of us who reflect on our whiteness from those who see through the prism of blackness. We have different ways of perceiving and understanding. Yet, by each focusing on our own “relative consciousness” about race, we can come together.
Baldwin calls the white me to be a “lover.”  A lover is vulnerable. A lover is open to criticism. A lover looks to change. A lover listens.  A lover does not seek control.
We learn from one another as we “love” one another, not a sloppy sentimentalism or romantic love, but a relationship of mutual respect and a celebration of the dignity of every person.
At wedding rituals, a common reading is from the writer Paul:
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; [It does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1 Corinthians 13—Revised New Testament
To be relatively conscious as a white person means to choose to be a lover. Blacks, too, are called to be relatively conscious and lovers. But love will likely be expressed differently from a person who is Black. It is not a level playing field.
W.E.B Du Bois, a founder of the NAACP, sociologist and social activist in “The Souls of Black Folk,” introduces the concept of “double consciousness” as the struggle African Americans face to remain true to Black culture while at the same time conforming to the dominant white society. Those who are Black play in a game with rules created by whites. And we who are white have never had to learn “Black” ways or play by rules they created. As they say, the game is rigged.
Baldwin asks me “to insist on or create the consciousness of others.” But how? We are all part of systems — family, neighborhood, schools, churches, etc. Can we not immediately point out ways we can change the behavior of those structures?  Can we learn from the behavior of others? Can we fashion and propose new rules that better reflect who we are as a neighbor and community?
There are examples within our reach. We who are white, too, can “have the talk” — about the realities of race — with our children about how the game is played. Then it is not as hard for our kids to see the advantages we have had.
We can learn from people like Greg Popovich, the coach of the San Antonio Spurs pro basketball team who is a “relatively conscious” white person. He invites Black players to shape and re-shape how “Pop” behaves. He reciprocates with books, films and experiences that build mutuality and trust within the team and beyond through dialogue in a non-threatening space. (New York Times article by Maureen Dowd, 06/14/20.)
Doreen Oliver is a Black person who is “relatively conscious.” By going up the chain of command, she asked questions of accountability from the Target CEO for the mistreatment of her 18-year-old autistic son. (New York Times article by Doreen Oliver, 06/14/2020) She chose to move from being only a “nurturer” of her family to an “advocate” for justice. In doing that, she confronted Target and directed these questions at its CEO:
1. How could Target allow a situation to escalate after the store knows the customer is a child, particularly one with autism.
2. What systems can Target put in place to avoid having the police being involved in the future?
3. Does Target train its employees to know how to work with developmentally disabled customers (or others who are persons of color or different)?
As relatively conscious Blacks and whites, we become advocates and ask questions. We all have situations of responsibility within that we can choose to act for the good. We can devise the needed questions and go to those who need to account for their actions—businesses, law enforcement, politicians, educators, health officials. All systems can be altered, fixed, re-imagined and re-created to serve the common good more fairly.
It’s a long-term march, but more immediate results seem to be possible. A new energy is being released daily. Now is the time to capitalize. Who will lead? Yes, we need to vote. But do we have to wait?
We each have a role to play. Preaching to the choir or pretending to be on the moral high ground are not the only alternatives. Rather, embracing the “lovers” stance and attitude invites a more trusting relationships both with those with whom we agree and with others who disagree.
Care for others results in caring for ourselves. In that way we may “achieve our country and change the world.”

author: Rick Deines


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The reason why this 13-year-old marches: ‘I want to help make a change.’ | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
June 24, 2020
Lyfe Polnitz, 13, says she’s protesting so her brothers “won’t have to face police brutality or racism in the future.” (Photo provided by Lorenzya Polnitz)
Lyfe Polnitz, 13, wanted to make a difference after hearing about the death of George Floyd and the protests that sprung up across the nation.
An eighth grader at Northwest Lutheran School, she has spent almost every day for over two weeks attending protests, participating in chants and trying to make her voice heard alongside her mother and other protesters.
Lyfe Polnitz attends a protest with her three younger brothers. (Photo provided by Lorenzya Polnitz)
Lyfe, the sixth of nine children, said she protests for her six brothers.
“I want to help make a change, so my brothers won’t have to face police brutality or racism in the future,” Lyfe said. “I don’t want them to have to be scared to go places.”
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“I have heart-to-heart conversation with my younger brothers about it,” she said. “I try to help them understand everything that is going on so aren’t afraid.”
Lyfe said she was always taught to stand up for what she believes in.
“I had to explain police brutality and racism to my children in an unfiltered way,” said Lorenzya Polnitz, Lyfe’s mother. “Because of the realness of the situation and because I don’t know when little Black children become threats, I’m trying to make them understand early.”
Polnitz said she feels being part of the protests is good for her daughter.
“The unfortunate truth is that she’ll probably have to protest like this again later in her life,” she said. “I want to be sure she knows what it looks like to advocate for herself.”

author: PrincessSafiya Byers


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Health care leaders urge patients to resume treatments delayed by COVID-19 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
June 25, 2020
Progressive Community Health Center staff members Brennae Williams (left) and Tina New demonstrate new safety protocols at the clinic. (Photo provided by Progressive Community Health Centers)
Marissa Hernandez, a 31-year-old mother of six, faced a difficult decision once the coronavirus pandemic began: Should she take her 4-year-old daughter in for a scheduled surgery to replace tubes that had fallen out of her ears or should she cancel to avoid the risk of being exposed to the virus.
She decided going to the hospital wasn’t worth the risk.
“We were hearing about outbreaks in the community and scared to go to the hospital because that’s where people who are sick from the virus go,” said Hernandez, whose children are all under the age of 13. “My mom and I talked about it and decided to postpone.”
Hernandez was not alone. Many in the Milwaukee area and across the country have delayed or avoided in-person medical treatment since the pandemic began. According to the Household Pulse Survey, 40 percent of Wisconsinites polled between May 28 and June 2 said they have delayed medical care in the past four weeks because of the pandemic. Nationally, the rate was 41.4 percent.
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The Household Pulse Survey is a database created by the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Center for Health Statistics to track weekly changes in employment, housing, health and other statistics.
The drop in patients in the city was so drastic that the Milwaukee Health Care Partnership, a public/private group consisting of most of the area’s major health systems and community health centers, issued a warning statement on April 30.
The leaders said area hospitals and clinics had seen a significant decrease in patients for emergency, routine, outpatient and critical care, and that it was cause for major concern, especially for those who delayed evaluation or treatment for chronic or acute conditions.
“If patients wait too long, they may need a longer hospitalization, have complications that could have been avoided – or worse,” said Dr. Marc Anthony de Moya, chief of trauma and acute care surgery at Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin, at the time.
Sarah Francois, director of fund development and marketing for Progressive Community Health Centers, said many patients still haven’t returned.
“We trained the public to stay home during the COVID-19 pandemic, and that’s what they did,” Francois said. “We’re ready to welcome back patients who have hypertension, diabetes or other chronic diseases or children who need immunizations to come in so they don’t put themselves at risk.”
Among those who fall into the high-risk category and who have experienced significant delays in treatment since the pandemic began are cancer patients, said Laurie Bertrand,  executive director of the American Cancer Society Wisconsin.
Bertrand said a poll conducted in April by the society’s Cancer Action Network found that 87 percent of respondents said the pandemic caused changes, delays or disruptions to their health care. Forty-four percent of those who reported delays were in active treatment for cancer.
Bertrand said the disruptions have affected chemo and radiation treatments, regular screenings to monitor progress and even prevented some from getting an initial diagnosis.
Maria Nieves, a two-time cancer survivor and advocate on the issue, has delayed treatment because of COVID-19. (Photo provided by the American Cancer Society)
Maria Nieves, 57, a two-time cancer survivor who is now cancer free, had her annual positron emission tomography, or PET scan, postponed for two months. The test can help determine if her cancer has resurfaced, and she said it also eases her fears over a return of the disease. She said she decided on her own to cancel appointments for other medical issues.
“It’s a panic issue,” Nieves said. “Do you go to treatment or postpone your appointment?”
Nieves faces the added challenge of serving as caretaker and monitoring the treatment for her father, Tomas, who was diagnosed with Stage 3 lung cancer in 2018.
“He gets in when he needs to, but the pandemic has made things a lot more challenging,” said Nieves, who has served as an advocate and volunteer for the American Cancer Society since her initial diagnosis in 2005.
Despite the challenges and concerns over COVID-19, Francois wants patients to know that they should feel safe about returning to hospitals and health centers.
“We’ve put in many protocols, including temperature checks; we provide masks for patients that don’t have them; and we thoroughly clean the building multiple times a day,” she said. “The key message is: ‘We’re very safe.’ ”
As for Hernandez, she learned that firsthand after her daughter’s fall from the tub resulted in a recent visit to the emergency room for stitches. Although she said she was anxious about being at the hospital, she felt comfortable with the screening process and social distancing measures that had been put in place.
Last week, her daughter finally had her surgery.
“I felt pretty good about it and had to wear a mask at the hospital the whole time,” said Hernandez, adding that her daughter was tested for COVID-19 the day before her surgery. “As far as regular doctor appointments for the other kids, I don’t know if I’m ready for that yet.”

author: Edgar Mendez


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 24, 2020


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5 things to do and know the weekend of June 26 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
June 26, 2020
Fondy Farmers Market opens for business this weekend. (File photo by Andrea Waxman)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon .
1. Core el Centro’s Mindful Parent support group
Core El Centro is hosting its Mindful Parent support group from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Friday, June 26. The discussion will take place via Zoom. The group provides a space for parents to connect and share ideas and tactics on how to survive this new normal. The group meets every Friday.
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2. Milwaukee Recreation’s Facebook Live dance class: Friday, June 26
Milwaukee Recreation is hosting a Facebook Live dance class at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, June 26. “Dance Fitness” is a group exercise class that includes Latin dance, hip-hop and more. The live class will be posted on the discussion tab at the start time.
3. Black Educators Caucus: Wee chalk your walk
The Black Educators Caucus is hosting a Wee Chalk Your Walk from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 27. The event is part of the Black Lives Matter movement in which participants will chalk the streets and sidewalks with messages of solidarity. The plan is to start at Wick Field, 4929 W. Vliet St. The caucus plans to lay out its four demands for the National Black Lives Matter at School Movement.
4. Fondy Farmers Market
Fondy Farmers Market, 2200 W. Fond du Lac Ave., is open for business from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27 and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 28. As the season continues, more vendors will be added to the lineup. In the meantime, people are asked to maintain social distancing, wear a mask, avoid gathering and only touch what they are going to purchase.
5. Free home rehab process and resources workshop
Take Root Milwaukee is hosting a free online workshop for current and potential homeowners from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 27. The workshop will discuss the process of purchasing a ‘fixer-upper’ and the resources available to homeowners in need of repairs or updates. Anyone can join, but registration is required.
From renting to owning: How to get a home in Milwaukee.
Succulent sale to benefit Black Educators Caucus
Individuals looking to support the Black Educators Caucus can purchase a succulent at Humboldt Park, 3000 S. Howell Ave., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 27. The succulent sales go directly to the Black Educators Caucus, a group of educators advocating for police reform in public schools. Those interested are asked to wear a mask and pay with cash, Venmo (@plants4protests) or Cash App ($plantsforprotets).
Bonus: The latest coronavirus coverage from NNS
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service reporters are hard at work bringing readers up-to-date information regarding coronavirus. Stay informed on coronavirus by following us on our Facebook page and subscribing to our daily newsletter. All coronavirus related articles can be found on this landing page. If you have a question or concern about coronavirus, send them in our way. We’re here to serve you.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 25, 2020


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CVS Health opens 4 new coronavirus testing sites in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
June 26, 2020
CVS Health is opening four new coronavirus testing sties in Milwaukee. (Photo provided by CVS Health)
Starting Friday, June 26, CVS Health is opening four new test sites in Milwaukee as it expands its coronavirus testing program.
The services will be offered to both insured and uninsured patients, with no out-of-pocket costs. The locations include the following CVS Pharmacy drive-throughs:
Patients must register in advance to schedule an appointment.
They will be required to stay in their cars and will be directed to the pharmacy drive-through window or a location in the parking lot at a few stores, where they will be provided with a test kit and given instructions, according to a news release.
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A CVS Pharmacy team member will observe the self-swab process to ensure it is done properly. Tests will be sent to an independent, third-party lab for processing and the results will be available in approximately three days, the release says.
Health care leaders urge patients to resume treatments delayed by COVID-19
The coronavirus is far from over: What Milwaukee residents need to know
Mental health experts see rise in cases as pandemic, protests create anxiety
7 places to get help during the coronavirus
OPINION: ‘The ability to know for certain’: My experience getting tested for the coronavirus


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OPINION: The lies white people tell ourselves and how they haunt Milwaukee today | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Frank Schneiger
June 26, 2020
(Photo by Wes Tank of TankThink)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
Frank Schneiger, the founder and president of Frank Schneiger and Associates., a planning and change management company serving the nonprofit and public service sectors, discusses how a job on a playground 60 years ago awakened his views on race.
William Faulkner: “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” The unfolding events surrounding the killing of George Floyd brought that quote to mind in a very specific way. As a white kid growing up in all-white Milwaukee neighborhoods in the1940s and ’50s, I was a product of the “colored are treated good here” era in the city’s history. Eight decades later, the legacy of that universally held white belief haunts the city to this day.
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In my mostly Catholic South Side neighborhood, racial bigotry was kind of low on the hierarchy of “isms.” At the top of the list was anti-Protestantism, fueled by regular Sunday sermons on the Protestant “deformation.” Then there was anti-Semitism, a result of the virus brought to our country by mostly East European immigrants, despite the fact that there were no Jews living anywhere near 26 Street and National Avenue. And, finally, there was reflexive homophobia, evidenced by the widespread knowledge that teenagers would travel downtown to the Mint Bar on Saturday nights to “beat up some queers,” an activity that no one seemed compelled to condemn or stop.
Black Milwaukeeans were barely on the radar screen at that time, partially because it was beyond anyone’s imagination that there could ever be Black people living on the South Side; but also because, at that time, the Black image in the white mind was still one of silly but harmless people who weren’t very bright, and who, mostly as part of the Great Migration, must be so thankful to have arrived in Milwaukee. That would all change with the advent of the civil rights and Black power movements when the current menacing image would take hold.
In those seemingly more innocent times, white people would swear that they had seen Black Milwaukeeans driving pink Cadillacs to pick up their welfare checks. The fact that welfare checks came in the mail, and that no one had ever seen one of these pink Cadillacs, except for Elvis Presley’s, did little to dent this firmly held belief — “I mean, I swear to God.”
Underpinning this whole set of attitudes was the fundamental assumption of white goodness and innocence. Logically, if “the colored are treated good here,” there was no need to feel either guilty about or responsible for anything, including rampant discrimination in housing, employment, education and criminal justice. And, equally logically, if there were any problems, they were their own fault: “They” needed to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. In our immigrant family, where a basic value was to be on the side of the underdogs, mostly people like us, Black people didn’t make the cut.
Exactly 60 years ago, June of 1960, that changed for me, and it was a version of the George Floyd story that produced the change, albeit quite by accident. My friends and I grew up on Milwaukee’s public school playgrounds, artifacts of the city’s glorious socialist past. We were what could be called street urchins, and, for a brief period, delinquents. Our operational base was 37 Street School and its playground. In the summer of 1956, we – a group of dopey 13 and 14-year-olds – made a vow. It was that no director of the 37 Street playground would survive the summer.
We were wildly successful. The first of our victims made the mistake of driving one of the early Volkswagen Beetles imported into the country. We didn’t exactly steal it. We simply picked it up, carried it away and hid it under a tarp in a backyard on Sarnow Street. He quit and spent the rest of the summer looking for his car. Others were to follow. All of this was watched in horror and disgust by the district supervisor, a man who had known us and treated us with kindness ever since we were little kids.
Summer ended, and we started high school, mostly at all-white Washington High, where Mrs. Porter, the American History teacher, taught that the wrong side had won the Civil War. Troublemaking and social disruption were replaced by sports, or in a couple of rare cases, reading a book. The summer of playground terror was soon forgotten.
Flash forward four years. After my freshman year at UW-Milwaukee, the summer factory and construction job market were not looking promising. So I applied to be a playground director, the kind of person whom we had tormented at 37 Street School. And this is where an accidental encounter changes your entire life. Walking down the hall was the supervisor from our earlier childhood. He saw me, scowled and asked: “What the **** are you doing here?” I told him, he shook his head and walked away.
But here is where things took that strange twist. My punishment was not to deny me a job. It was to teach me a lesson. That lesson was to give me a job and assign me to the all-Black playground at 21 and Center streets. Placing a totally inexperienced 19-year old white boy on this playground as a “we’ll show you” punishment immediately tells you something about the prevailing racial attitudes of otherwise well-meaning people. But I have been forever in their debt for the opportunity that they gave me.
Sixty years ago, in June of 1960 on 21 and Center Streets, it was possible to have more than 100 kids – all Black – on a playground at 8 o’clock at night, supervised by a 19-year old dimwit, in complete peace and harmony. Which brings me back to the prevailing white view at the time that, “the colored are treated good here.” Within a few weeks in this new world, I was exposed to stories and realities that totally shattered that mantra.
At the heart of that shattering was the Milwaukee Police Department. Growing up, my friends and I had always had a bad relationship with the cops. But this was largely a result of the fact that there was so little crime and, consequently, so little for them to do, that they spent most of their time harassing kids. With a few exceptions, it was more of a cat-and-mouse game than anything else. I can state, with total certainty, that the thought that they might shoot us or kneel on our neck never crossed our minds.
That was not the case at 21 and Center. Which brings us to the past never being past, and the importance of dealing with history. More specifically, the refusal of people to deal with the past, their need to believe lies, and the profound consequences of those failures. Two years before I arrived at 21 Street, a young Black man, Daniel Bell, had been killed by the police a few blocks from the playground.  Daniel Bell was George Floyd in the age long before cellphone cameras.
I vaguely remembered hearing about the case in high school, with the cops claiming self-defense and being completely exonerated, until one of them, guilt ridden, confessed to the murder on CBS’ “60  Minutes” decades later. The story of Daniel Bell, regularly discussed on the playground, was one of a cold-blooded murder. What was strange (at least, to a white person) was that it was told as a cautionary tale more than anything else. Rather than outrage or a quest for justice, the theme was the need to avoid the cops so that you didn’t end up like Daniel Bell.
Along with other things, including being arrested on the playground for breaking the code of white solidarity by taking the side of a kid who was telling the truth against a cop who was accusing him of lying, my view of the world was changing in significant ways. These changes often resulted from describing my experiences at home or to other white friends. When I would say, “Here is what some of the people on the playground are saying about . . . “ the response was almost invariably, “Why are you always taking their side?”
Truth had become a “side,” and it was a “side” that collided with the whole narrative of white innocence and Milwaukee as kind of a racial paradise. It was a narrative that transformed a vicious racist and anti-Semite, Police Chief Harold Breier, into a “good tough cop.”  (Breier would have been proud of the cops at the recent 6 and McKinley streets encounter.) After my “arrest,” I was regularly stopped by cops on Center Street for “safety inspections.” If I was driving or riding with anyone Black, being stopped was almost a given and usually included a demand to know where we were going.
A Black colleague recently asked me if this experience had changed my views of Black people. I thought about it and said that, “No,” it had changed my view of white people, along with my assumptions about truth and trust. It is a strange experience to – in a very compressed time period – suddenly realize that you are a member of a tribe, to begin to be excluded from that tribe, and to then grasp that you are never going to be a member of a different tribe. That all happened in the summer and fall of 1960.
A couple of years later, when I returned from a brief stint in the Deep South, white people were eager to hear about how horrible Mississippi was. It was part of the search for additional proof that Milwaukee was a racial paradise. When they asked, “what was it like?” I typically responded, “It’s sort of like Milwaukee.” That answer triggered outrage and suggestions that maybe it was time for me to leave, which I soon did, heading for New York City, another place that had convinced itself that it was a progressive racial paradise.
Six decades later, the consequences of denial, coupled with the city’s deindustrialization, and its extreme segregation and inequality, have all produced huge bills that are now coming due. It has been 60 years of social and economic decline, avoidance and a widespread refusal to accept any responsibility. Just think, can anyone imagine 150 kids enjoying a peaceful summer evening on 21 Street playground in our times?
The question now is: What’s next? How do you address a legacy that has replaced a fair amount of hope and trust with deep-seated pessimism, mistrust and misery? Those are the questions that should be front and center for Milwaukee’s leaders, especially those from a younger generation who will have to deal with the mess that their elders have left behind.

author: Frank Schneiger


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5 things to do and know this week in Milwaukee: June 29 to July 4 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
June 29, 2020
Metcalfe Park Community Bridges is hosting its next block pop-up and mobile food pantry from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. SDC community giveaway: Monday, June 29
The Social Development Commission, 1730 W. North Ave., is hosting a community giveaway from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Monday, June 29. The bags will include toiletries, cleaning supplies and school supplies. There are only 200 available. Participants are asked to wear a mask.
2. New exhibit at Latino Arts: Tuesday, June 30
Latino Arts, 1028 S. 9th St., is presenting a new exhibit, “Hijos de la Tierra/Children of the Earth,” by Juan Flores. The times for the exhibit are 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30. Those interested must register online and admission costs $3. A mask is required.
3. Metcalfe Park Community Bridges one stop shop: Tuesday, June 30
Metcalfe Park Community Bridges is hosting a block pop-up and mobile food pantry from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30. The event will take place on the 2600 block of North 34th Street. Food and care packages will be distributed. Residents can also receive help with voter registration and the census. Social distancing will be implemented, and masks, globes and sanitizer will be provided. Read more about the group here.
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4. Washington Heights artists host front-yard pop-up: Wednesday, July 1
Creatives from Washington Heights are doing pop-up events in front yards from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1. The event will take place in the Washington Heights neighborhood on the 1700 to 1800 blocks of North 52nd Street. For the list of makers and the guidelines, visit the Facebook event page.
5. “Independence” day protest and block party: Saturday, July 4
Youth organizers are hosting a Black Lives Matter protest and block party starting at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. The protest will begin at Rufus King High School, 1801 W. Olive St., and continue to Riverside University High School, 1615 E. Locust St. A celebration will follow at Riverside University. There will be food and entertainment.
Bonus: Hunger Task Force summer food program
The Hunger Task Force has resumed its summer meal program in Milwaukee. The program provides meals to children and youth at various meal sites. To find the site closest to you, check out the interactive map, dial 2-1-1 or text your Zip code to 898-211.
Bonus: The latest coronavirus coverage from NNS
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service reporters are hard at work bringing readers up-to-date information regarding coronavirus. Stay informed by following us on our Facebook page and subscribing to our daily newsletter. All coronavirus related articles can be found on this landing page. If you have a question or concern about coronavirus, send them in our way. We’re here to serve you. Looking for more personalized direction to resources and information during the coronavirus crisis? Get connected with News414, a texting-based news resource from Milwaukee NNS, Wisconsin Watch and Outlier Media. You can text MILWAUKEE to 73224 and begin to receive free, personalized data via text messages.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 28, 2020


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milwaukee things to own | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 28, 2020
milwaukee things to own


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Post from Community: Milwaukee Public Schools releases school reopening survey | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Public Schools
June 29, 2020
(Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Public Schools)
Editor’s note: Our Posts from the Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) released its School Reopening Survey for students and families to gather input on how to safely welcome back students for the 2020-21 school year.
Amid the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, surveys will be distributed to families via email, US Mail, and other methods and will ask how they feel MPS can best serve families this upcoming year. MPS administration recently outlined scenarios that will be considered for students and educators returning in the fall.
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“This survey is one of the ways we are giving MPS families a voice in how we can meet the needs of our students and our community,” MPS Superintendent Dr. Keith P. Posley said. “We will use this input, along with guidance from health officials and state and local leaders, to come up with the safest plan to provide our students the best environment to learn.”
MPS families can find a link to the School Reopening Survey on the MPS web site. The survey will be available until July 8, 2020. The Milwaukee Board of School Directors has called for a special board meeting in July to further discuss the district’s reopening plan.

author: Milwaukee Public Schools


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 29, 2020


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OPINION: ‘I’m a Black trans womxn and I want my voice to be heard loud and clear’ | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
SunShine Ramel
June 29, 2020
SunShine Ramel (bottom row, second from right) and collaborators on the Juneteenth Block Party stage on June 19, 2020. (Photo provided by Angelicia Gonzales)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
My name is SunShine Ramel or SunShine Ray Pop. My pronouns are she/her/they/them. I’m a poet, artist, activist and drag queen.
I’m 24 years old and started doing activism work back when I was a junior in high school. Ever since, I never stopped fighting for what I believe in.
Lately, I have been busy organizing marches and making art for them. I’ve been out marching because I’m a Black trans womxn and I want my voice to be heard loud and clear.
I want to change the world with art and poetry and help others through my creative expressions. I want others to feel inspired and bring a little bit of joy during these hard times. Art and poetry help me out when I’m down, so I think that they will help others the same way they help me.
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I started organizing because I was tired of seeing the same thing happening over and over again. I started to organize in the community because I felt like my voice wasn’t being heard. So, I had to stand up and fight for what I believe in.
I fight for what I believe in because unfortunately, it’s hard for to be Black, gay and trans, as well as a womxn in America. And I feel if I don’t fight for myself and people like me, no one will.
I’ve recently helped organize the BLACK WMNZ Emancipation Protest for Juneteenth this year, Pride March for All Black Lives and Black LQBTIA Womxn’s March and Courage MKE’s Youth and Families March for BLM. I’ve also helped with a mural on Holton and Center.
Helping organize all these marches has let me know that the community cares about me and people just like me. It shows that we, as a community, can love on each other in these hard times.
I’ve cried tears of joy lately. I’ve also cried tears of sadness and anger. But having a community of people who cares about my Black life helps, because they help me lift up my voice.
Keep shining bright like the star you are and never stop following your dreams and believing in yourself. I love you all. Shine on, SunRays.

author: SunShine Ramel


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Milwaukee enters Phase 4 of its COVID-19 orders Wednesday, July 1, health leaders announced last week. The phase will last a minimum of 14 days, which is the incubation period of COVID-19. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Bridget Fogarty
June 29, 2020
Though Milwaukee businesses are reopening, the coronavirus isn’t over. Here are some things you need to know. (Photo by Adam Carr)
As national protests for racial justice, among other issues, dominate the news, we issue this important public service announcement: COVID-19 has not gone away.
The coronavirus continues to ravage our communities.
Here’s an update on what you and your loved ones need to know to stay safe, healthy and informed.
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You can find more information on the county’s COVID-19 statistics here.
Milwaukee enters Phase 4 of its COVID-19 orders Wednesday, July 1, health leaders announced last week.
The phase will last a minimum of 14 days, which is the incubation period of COVID-19.
What it means?
In Phase 4, most businesses and activities can continue but on a larger scale so long as they adhere to physical distancing, protective measure requirements and safe business practices.
Beaches: All individuals and pets shall comply with physical distancing and protective measure requirements. Team and contact sports on public beaches remain prohibited.
Child care settings, including youth programs: 75% capacity
Faith-based gatherings: Must be the lesser of the three: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Garage sales, rummage and yard sales: Must be the lesser of the three: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Gatherings in homes or public venues: Must be the lesser of the three: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Gyms and athletic centers:  Must be the lesser of the three: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Hotels/motels: 50% capacity; pools, hot tubs and exercise facilities are limited to the lesser of: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Libraries: Must be the lesser of the three: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Places of amusement: Must be the lesser of the three: 1) 50% of the total occupancy of the location, 2) one person for every 30 square feet or 3) 250 people.
Retail establishments: 50% capacity
Restaurants/bars: 50% capacity *ability to operate without a capacity limit with a COVID19 Safety Plan approved by the health department.
Salons/spas: 1 client per service provider
Stores: 75% capacity
Youth summer programs: 75% capacity
Technically, yes. But certain safety measures still apply. According to the Milwaukee Health Department, faith-based gatherings, garage and yard sales, gyms and athletic centers are all allowed as long as less than 25% of the space is occupied; there is only one person every 30 square feet; or there are no more than 250 people in a space.
Gatherings in homes and in public venues have the same requirements. Visitors must comply with physical distancing and protective measures while enjoying the outdoors at beaches and parks.
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines advise: “The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and the virus spreading.”
In most spaces, the use of a mask or cloth face covering is required. In others, it is strongly recommended.
Milwaukee County issued an administrative order earlier this month that requires any employees, volunteers or visitors (with some exemptions) entering Milwaukee County buildings or outdoor spaces with controlled entry points to wear masks. In spaces where a face mask is required, the county will provide disposable ones to the public.
While masks are not required on Milwaukee County Transit System buses, riders are strongly encouraged to use them while on board. MCTS continues to limit passengers to 10 per bus, and fare collection and front door boarding have resumed.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides more information on the importance of wearing a mask or face covering.
Those with symptoms, essential workers and individuals who have recently been in larger crowds that may have made them more at risk for COVID-19 are encouraged to get tested.
This interactive map from the Milwaukee County/State of Wisconsin Expanded Community Testing Initiative displays the location and contact information of 21 COVID-19 testing sites.
Two community test sites opened on June 1. The North Side site is located at the Custer Stadium by Barack Obama High School, 4300 W. Fairmount Ave., and the South Side site is located at UMOS, 2710 S. Chase Ave.
In addition, CVS Health has opened four new test sites in Milwaukee as it expands its coronavirus testing program.
The services will be offered to both insured and uninsured patients, with no out-of-pocket costs.
If you are wondering what it is like to get tested, educator and activist Kika Meraz shared her experiences getting tested for COVID-19 on Milwaukee’s South Side in this Community Voices piece.
1.
You can call 2-1-1 to get connected to more information and resources related to COVID-19 in Milwaukee. IMPACT 2-1-1 is the area’s central access point for people in need. Users can get free and confidential services by calling the 2-1-1 helpline, texting their ZIP code to TXT-211, chatting online in real time with specialists or by searching a database on their own.
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Dr. Bryan Johnston offers his advice on how to stay safe if you decide to march during the pandemic in this Community Voices piece.
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The We Care Crew is a collaboration of county departments and local organizations dedicated to connecting individuals in neighborhoods hit hardest by COVID-19 with information and health education. The group will be distributing and resources such as masks and meals at temporary sites in Milwaukee County Parks. You can find participating park sites here.
4.
Looking for more personalized direction to resources and information during the coronavirus crisis? Get connected with News414, a texting-based news resource from Milwaukee NNS, Wisconsin Watch and  Outlier Media. You can text MILWAUKEE to 73224 and begin to receive free, personalized data via text messages.

author: Bridget Fogarty


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
June 22, 2020


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24,000 names and counting: Rental assistance program faces a backlog. Here’s what you need to know. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
June 30, 2020
The Social Development Commission is combing through a list of 24,000 names of people seeking emergency rental aid. (Photo by Adam Carr)
Victor Campbell is struggling to make ends meet as the pandemic adds even more challenges to his life.
And making sure he’s able to pay rent is the priority for the 62-year-old Sherman Park resident.
In June, he reached out to the Wisconsin Rent Assistance Program for help but has not heard back.
For him, and so many others, the clock is ticking as rent becomes due this week.
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“It doesn’t matter how many programs we have if they’re not actually helping people,” Campbell said.
He filed for unemployment the last week of March and initiated contact with the rent assistance program June 8.
The Social Development Commission, or SDC, received $6.7 million to assist residents of Milwaukee, Ozaukee, and Washington counties with rental assistance as part of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act package.
A ban prohibiting landlords from evicting tenants expired May 26.
Even before the rental assistance program launched, thousands had contacted the Social Development Commission in need of help, SDC officials said.
Eligible applicants must be an adult Wisconsin resident with a household income at or below 80 percent of the county median income in the month of or prior to the application date.
Once approved, eligible individuals may receive assistance of up to $3,000 in a combination of rental payments and/or security deposits. These payments will be paid directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant.
SDC officials say the organization has been swamped with requests and has a backlog of cases.
We talked with Kim Dawson-Brooks of the SDC to answer questions about the process.
The SDC is calling people back on a “first come-first serve basis.” There are currently more than 24,000 names on the list. We have hired extra staff dedicated exclusively to the WRAP program.
A staff member will call you. They communicate with renters at times that work best for them.
Once required information is returned, the application process is quick.  The length of the application process depends on how long it takes for the renter and landlord to provide requested information. There are a series of checks and balances within the program that help reduce fraud, ensure landlords are properly paid and renters have access to all the help available to them.
They didn’t have a lot of time to prepare but during a crisis you rarely do. Once Community Action Agencies around the state received required state training, the State of Wisconsin opened up the program and SDC began processing applications.
1. Submit information through WRAP website as opposed to calling.
2. Work with the landlord and return requested information as quickly as possible
3. Have information ready in advance. Applicants (adult Wisconsin residents) will be asked to provide the following information during the application process:
No. You can be eligible. However, if you do not verify eligibility through proper sources, you may not receive assistance.
We want people to know that we understand the importance of this program and are working as quickly as possible to help them access this resource
● Community Advocates has a special rental help line, specifically as a result of COVID-19, to connect people to rent assistance as well as other benefits including energy assistance, unemployment and FoodShare Wisconsin.
It has updated its rent assistance app and recommends applying directly online instead of calling.
The organization also provides services for landlords, including mediation and assistance working out agreements between tenants and landlords.
You can call 414-270-4646 or email renthelp@communityadvocates.net.
●Mediate Milwaukee offers mediation for tenants, landlords, homeowners and lenders to help work through conflicts and come to agreements. You can call them at 414-939-8800 or email them at apply@mediatemilwaukee.com.
●Legal Aid Society of Milwaukeecan provide legal assistance to income-eligible tenants in dispute with landlords, as well as to homeowners. You can call them at 414-727-5300.
●Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Councilcan help homeowners protect themselves from mortgage and foreclosure prevention scams, as well as from predatory home loans. You can call them at 414-278-1240.
●Housing Resources Inc. can provide counseling to homeowners and has programs to help people prevent foreclosure. You can call them at 414-461-6330.
●If you think you are at risk of becoming homeless, you can always  or text your ZIP code to TXT-211 (898-211).
●If you want to learn more about evictions in the city or see your landlord’s track record of evictions, you can check out the maps and data on mke-evict.com.
Are you worried about losing your home during or after the pandemic? Share your experiences with News414.


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Worried about being able to pay rent? Here are some resources that can help. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
June 30, 2020
Worried about being able to pay rent? Here are some resources that can help.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
● Community Advocates has a special rental help line, specifically as a result of COVID-19, to connect people to rent assistance as well as other benefits including energy assistance, unemployment and FoodShare Wisconsin.
It has updated its rent assistance app and recommends applying directly online instead of calling.
The organization also provides services for landlords, including mediation and assistance working out agreements between tenants and landlords.
You can call 414-270-4646 or email renthelp@communityadvocates.net.
●Mediate Milwaukee offers mediation for tenants, landlords, homeowners and lenders to help work through conflicts and come to agreements. You can call them at 414-939-8800 or email them at apply@mediatemilwaukee.com.
●Legal Aid Society of Milwaukeecan provide legal assistance to income-eligible tenants in dispute with landlords, as well as to homeowners. You can call them at 414-727-5300.
●Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Councilcan help homeowners protect themselves from mortgage and foreclosure prevention scams, as well as from predatory home loans. You can call them at 414-278-1240.
●Housing Resources Inc. can provide counseling to homeowners and has programs to help people prevent foreclosure. You can call them at 414-461-6330.
●If you think you are at risk of becoming homeless, you can always  or text your ZIP code to TXT-211 (898-211).
●If you want to learn more about evictions in the city or see your landlord’s track record of evictions, you can check out the maps and data on mke-evict.com.
Are you worried about losing your home during or after the pandemic? Share your experiences with News414.


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Causey’s Career Corner: There are still jobs, internships out there for young people | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Damia S. Causey
July 1, 2020
For the first time in its 16-year history, the City of Milwaukee was forced to cancel a component of the Earn and Learn Jobs program because of COVID-19 concerns.
The Summer Youth Internship Program would have placed 110 interns in various roles in city government this summer. Interns, ages 16 to 19, were set to work 20 hours per week at $11.52 an hour for eight weeks. It’s one of three components of the overall Earn and Learn.
The Summer Youth Internship Program was planning to place 110 interns in various roles in city
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Summerfest and the Wisconsin State Fair have also been canceled for the first time in their histories. These employers provided jobs to hundreds, if not thousands of young people.
Thanks to the pandemic, youth and young adults face limited employment and internship options this summer.
But don’t give up.
There are some internships available, and employers are still hiring as our city continues to loosen up COVID-19 restrictions.
Here are a few:
Who: Target
What: Cashier
Where: 3900 N. 124 St., Wauwatosa (On a bus line)
Apply here.
Who: Cream City YouthBuild
What: Occupational skills training in construction careers for ages 16 to 24. Must meet certain criteria to apply.
Where: Employ Milwaukee, 2342 N. 27 St
Who: Trader Joe’s
What: Crew member,  $12–$14 per hour
Where: 5600 N. Port Washington Rd.
Apply here.
Who: TJX Companies
What: Merchandise associate
Where: Marshalls  3557 South 27th St.
Apply here.
Resources are a click away
While it can be frustrating to seek employment, especially as a young person, there are resources available to assist you.
Use your Milwaukee Public Library system to take online enrichment classes. The library also offers a teen job resource section with information on how to prepare for an interview, how to create a resume, how to write a cover letter and other job search tips. Click here for more information.
Need your driver’s permit? Take classes virtually through the Milwaukee Urban League.
You must be 18 to enroll in this program and meet other criteria. Click here for more information.
The next session takes place from 11 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. July 2.Check out this flyer for more information. You can contact  Darnell Lathan at dlathan@tmul.org to see if you qualify.
About this column: I will share stories of those who have taken a nontraditional approach to employment or an unusual career path. I will also list employment information such as job fairs, resource fairs and job training events. I encourage community organizations to email me at damiacausey@milwaukeenns.org with career information.

author: Damia S. Causey