MADISON, Wis. — Members of Wisconsin’s Legislative Black Caucus say they’ll continue fighting for the freedoms that were proclaimed on June 19, 1865.
The caucus came together at the State Capitol on Tuesday to celebrate the upcoming Juneteenth holiday. The theme of this year’s event was ‘What Freedom Looks Like: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow’.
State Sen. Dora Drake, D-Milwaukee, said the nation’s 250th anniversary puts this year’s Juneteenth in a different perspective.
“I can’t help but find it ironic that we are still fighting to ensure the stories of our ancestors are not forgotten, and the progress for civil rights we made is never erased,” Drake said.
Drake added that although Black people across the nation are free today, they’re facing unique struggles compared to their ancestors.
“It is the attack on diversity, equity and inclusion as folks try to reframe it as discrimination or preferential treatment, as you will see on your November ballot this fall,” Drake said.
Despite those challenges, Drake said people like Camden Hargrove are still willing to step up and create a better future. Hargrove is an alderperson for the City of Menomonie and was the first Black and openly trans man elected to public office in Wisconsin.
He said he couldn’t have accomplished that feat without the help of those around him.
“I stand here today because teachers encouraged me, elders guided me, friends and family loved and supported me,” Hargrove said. “Community members believed in me before I fully believed in myself.”
Hargrove said he wants to empower others to make their voices heard.
He believes that’s the only way Wisconsinites can build a state that belongs to everyone.
“I want all young folks, especially those who have been told they’re too different, too loud, too black, too queer, too poor, too rural, too much to know this, you belong,” Hargrove said. “You belong in these rooms, you belong in leadership, you belong in history.”
Hargrove was recognized by the Legislative Black Caucus for his leadership and advocacy during Tuesday’s event.
The celebration also included a tribute to former Boys & Girls Club of Dane County CEO Michael Johnson, who recently died unexpectedly at the age of 50.
