MADISON, Wis. – During an Assembly Floor Session focused on recognizing First Responders from across Wisconsin, Republican Leadership shifted their focus to Senate Joint Resolution 88 (SJR88). In response, Assembly Assistant Democratic Leader Kalan Haywood (D-Milwaukee) issued the following statement:
“I am deeply disturbed that Republican Leadership chose to change the focus of what is usually a day of celebration to appreciate first responders to this political stunt. Legislative Democrats have always and continue to condemn political violence, and even attempted to offer an amendment to strengthen that message, which was refused by the Majority Party.
“For many years, I have seen Black History Month resolutions fail, because named Black Wisconsinites made the Majority Party uncomfortable. I question this institution’s standards on what it takes to be recognized and honored on the Assembly Floor. Is the bar different if you are person of color, do you have to be from Wisconsin, or do you simply have to look like and share ideologies with those in power?
“It is my hope that we as a body take greater care, and be consistent about those we honor. We must avoid continued polarization by fueling the flames of radical politics. Countless individuals, White, Black, and Brown from both sides of the political spectrum have contributed far more to our state without due recognition, and will remain unrecognized because they do not benefit the Majority Party politically. This is a dangerous path that must be corrected quickly. It is time the Legislature stop with culture wars, and start working toward policies that improve the lives of Wisconsin families.
