Black political representation in Wisconsin is at its highest, but major gaps persist

A resolution to recognize February as Black History Month and honor Black changemakers across Wisconsin was introduced this month by Democratic senators after facing rejection in previous years.  The lack of Black representation in the Wisconsin Capitol has left lawmakers struggling to amplify their voices and pass resolutions like those honoring Black History Month.  The first Black representative elected to serve in the state Legislature was Lucian H. Palmer in November 1907. But some of Palmer’s white neighbors attempted to convince his landlord to evict him from his home in hopes he would be unable to represent the wealthiest district in the state.  Palmer’s district included areas such as Milwaukee’s Third Ward and the majority-Black Bronzeville neighborhood where Palmer lived. And while Palmer survived the attempt to force him out, he lost his election the next year.  After Palmer lost reelection, there wasn’t another Black person in the Legislature for 33 years. Black political representation is still left standing  As of February 2024, there are nine Black legislators in Wisconsin. While this is the second-highest year, many Black communities still feel left out of political representation.   All current Black legislators represent districts that encompass all or some of Milwaukee or...