Brookfield, WI – Wisconsin is in pain. The state witnessed tragedy in Kenosha, WI, with the shooting of Jacob Blake and the killing of two protesters by an out-of-state gunman. The painful ripples are felt across the state and through our communities in Wisconsin’s 5th Congressional District.
Through these tragedies, Kenosha is a focal point for both presidential campaigns. In times of crisis, there is an opportunity for real change to emerge. There is a chance for unity and healing. Palzewicz hopes this is what the heightened national attention can bring.
“With both Trump and Biden visiting Kenosha, you have to hope they will try to focus on bringing the community together,” Palzewicz said. “I welcome more attention being put on Wisconsin. I just hope leaders focus on unity rather than trying to sow discord.”
In the aftermath of these tragedies, there is energy across the state for police reform and racial justice. Palzewicz reflects on the opportunity to deliver change in these critical moments. There was an opportunity to discuss policy solutions at the Wisconsin Legislature’s special session Monday.
“To gavel in and out in thirty seconds is unacceptable,” Palzewicz said. “Not only is it disrespectful to the individuals deeply impacted by these shootings and deaths, but it shows that some of our representatives don’t seem to care about policy change. They are supposed to provide solutions during these times. Surely they can do more.”
While leaders like WI-Senate Majority Leader, Scott Fitzgerald, avoid discussions or debates on policy change, other leaders are presenting plans for a new way forward.
“Wisconsin is hurting. We need to put progress over partisanship in these trying times. We need to reach across the aisle for the betterment of all Wisconsinites,” Palzewicz remarked. “Hopefully, we can see positivity and a presentation of real solutions with Joe Biden’s impending visit to Kenosha.”
Palzewicz hopes to see leaders protect peaceful protesters’ rights and simultaneously hopes organizers maintain a peaceful demeanor at all protests.
“I am hoping for peace, unity, and needed reforms,” Palzewicz said. “We are all Wisconsinites. We are neighbors, friends, and family. We need to remember this even as some try to create division.”