News & Commentary

I don't know if you were following what happened at the Wisconsin Capitol last night, but here is a summary: The Joint Finance Committee voted

Senator Alberta Darling and Representative Dale Kooyenga are trying to take over Milwaukee Public Schools. Their proposal to take away "failing" schools from MPS and create a "recovery school district" is a blatant effort by out-of-town representatives to take local control away from the people. Let's not allow the state's poorest and most deprived schools to be handed over to private interests.

Do you know your rights in an encounter with law enforcement? This is a phrase heard by thousands across the state when they are handed an ACLU “Know Your Rights” tri-fold card, or “Bust Card,” as they are affectionately called. The wallet-sized cards outline everything one should know during encounters with law enforcement whether they are stopped on foot, in a vehicle, or if police come to their home. Also included in the card, is the contact information for organizations that can help file a complaint against the police if necessary. Because laws can be different in each municipality, there are cards specific to Milwaukee, Racine, and Madison. The ACLU of Wisconsin provides free workshops that explore the contents of the cards more thoroughly throughout the state and encourage everyone to exercise their rights.

For three years, the Department of Justice has been investigating Wisconsin’s school voucher program for systematically discriminating against students with disabilities.

Over 500 marched, rallied, and organized to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Supreme Court's landmark decision, Brown v. Board of Education, which made the promise of racially integrated public schools with its famed declaration: Separate is not equal.

By Gordon Lafer | April 24, 2014

It is time to fulfill the promise of Brown v. Board of Education and of equal opportunity for all. 

By Molly Collins

The ACLU of Wisconsin sent a letter today to the Madison Metropolitan School Board after hearing that they were considering a new Student Behavior Plan which would clearly state that students cannot be suspended/expelled for certain smaller-level behavioral issues and eliminate zero tolerance policies.