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Celebrate the League's Birthday on Feb. 28th
At 106 years old, we're still going strong! | | Celebrate the milestone with fellow League members (guests welcome) on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 2-4 pm at Dandy, 5020 W. Vliet St., Milwaukee. The mingling and merriment will include a brief presentation on the history of the LWV as well as a performance by Jessica Michna, impressionist of historical notable women, who will portray Eleanor Roosevelt (who had ties to the LWV!)
Register here to join the fun.
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Only two more sessions!
Participate and use your voice! |  |
Session 3: Saturday, Jan 31st, 10:00-11:00am. Sign up here
Potential Issues for 2026-2027 LWVMC Program Consideration:
- Voting Rights and Election Protection - Jessica Claire Menke
- Freedom of Speech - Ann Batiza
- Educate members of WI Energy Options - Carol Diggleman
Review of the LWVUS Program Platform under consideration for the June National Convention - Our feedback is due March 10th. Examples:
- Women for Democracy Campaign (Position Priorities)
- Concurrence on LWVWA - Protecting the Rights of Immigrants -> Position amendment
- Study on LWVCO - Religious Freedom Position -> New Position
Session 4: Wednesday, Feb 4th, 4:30pm-5:30pm. Signup here
Advocacy Opportunities at the State Level
- Natural Resource Committee - Candice Owley
- Community Alliance Committee - Eloisa Gomez
- 22 Legislative Portfolio Teams - Gail Sklodowska
- Advocacy & Lobby Benchmark Study Overview - Gail Sklodowska
Review Member Survey on 2026-2027 Advocacy Program - Use your voice & Vote!
| “Know Your Rights and Resources” Webpage Launched
Joint statement from all members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Alex Brower, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman DiAndre Jackson, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, Alderwoman Sharlen P. Moore, Alderman Peter Burgelis, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
January 22, 2026
Residents of Milwaukee, especially those who are not citizens, are understandably feeling a sense of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty in light of the inhumane actions that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has displayed in communities across the country.
The fear is not unfounded, and we want residents to know that we stand with them during these uncertain times and will do what we can to provide timely information and make sure they are supported. To that end, we have launched a webpage to compile resources, including general information, fact sheets, preparedness toolkits, and legal support options, so this vital information is available in one central hub. The new website can be found here.
This is just one of several steps we are taking to ensure our residents are informed and protected. Now more than ever, we must maintain a sense of unity and put our full weight behind those who are being deprived of basic rights.
| LWVUS Urges Congressional Oversight of ICE
"When federal immigration officers use deadly force, it must trigger Congressional oversight -- not silence," said Celina Stewart, CEO of LWVUS. "The Constitution deliberately grants Congress oversight authority to prevent abuses, not to rubber-stamp them. No federal agency is above the law, and the League of Women Voters will stand with the American people to defend constitutional rights and demand accountability."
Now is a monumental opportunity for Congress to assert its authority and rein in ICE. Congress needs to pass a new budget to fund the Department of Homeland Security (includes ICE) by Jan. 30.
Please contact WI Senators Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson to share your opinion about funding ICE without first insisting on systemic reforms. | Seeking Nominations for 2026/27 LWVMC Board Positions
Are you interested in applying for a LWVMC leadership position or nominating someone else with their permission? With democracy in our country under assault, the League needs dedicated members in leadership positions who are committed to defending our democracy. Are you prepared to contribute to the League’s fundamental mission?
The open Board positions for 2026/27 are the following:
- Second VP Advocacy
- Treasurer
- Board Director (4)
Descriptions of the positions:
VP Advocacy:
VP Advocacy Job Description
Treasurer:
Treasurer Job Description
Board Director:
Board Director Job Description
The application form can be found at the following link:
Application Form
Dedicated LWVMC leaders are essential in these tumultuous times. For further information regarding the open Board positions, please contact Mike Kloehn, Nominating Committee Chair at m.kloehn@lwvmilwaukee.org or (904) 200-7815.
The application submission deadline is February 28th.
|  | | LOCAL ACTION
Data Center Moratoria - City of Milwaukee - There is no new information about the proposed moratorium seeking “proactive standards and careful regulation” of data centers. Madison - a one-year moratorium was proposed by the city’s Planning Commission and will go before the City Council.
LOOKING AHEAD
Feb 11, 6:30-8:00pm - Environmental Impacts of Data Centers. LWV All-State Winter Webinar sponsored by La Crosse Area and Dane County Chapters. Speakers: Michael Grief, Legal Fellow at Midwest Environmental Advocates, Amy Barrilleaux, Communications Director, Clean Wisconsin. Moderator: Gretchen Sabel, Chair, LWV Upper Mississippi River Region
Register HERE
County Resolutions - The two resolutions before the County Board on Dec 18, 2025 passed unanimously. Our County is now on record in support of a) data center accountability and transparency and b) engaging outside counsel on a contingency basis to initiate lawsuits regarding i.) contamination by PFAS and ii) contributions to climate change.
Nov. 22 program, Addressing Climate Change in Milwaukee County - Video and slides now available on our LWVMC website homepage, LWVMilwaukee.org. Please share with family and friends. |  | The Clean Economy Coalition of WI releases a 10-point Data Center accountability report and calls for a pause on data centers
The LWVWI has joined the CECW coalition of over 40 environmental organizations. On 1/26/2026 the coalition released a comprehensive set of policies needed in our state to protect our people and our environment against unprecedented growth of large scale data centers in Wisconsin. To manage the growth responsibility, CECW proposes that the state pause consideration of new data center proposals until a strategic framework is in place.
More information can be found in this MJS article. | Natural Resources Committee Meeting - NEW TIME
Wednesday, Feb. 11 - 5:30 p.m. (to accommodate attending the Data Centers Environmental Effects Meeting)
New members welcome! We will continue to provide updates regarding climate change, renewable energy sources, lead issues, and the planned energy options series. We are starting early only this month to accommodate those who would like to attend the Data Centers discussion linked in this Update. Register here.
|  | | Did you know that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is building a sweeping system of surveillance technologies that includes Facial Recognition Technology (FRT)? In April 2025, the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) announced its intention to trade 2.5 million mugshots for access to FRT and plans to go forth with this plan, even as immigration enforcement accesses local law enforcement surveillance data nationwide.
On Tuesday, February 5, the MPD is expected to present their draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) at the Fire & Police Commission (FPC) meeting. Join the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County at the meeting (Milwaukee City Hall, Room 301-B) where we will express our opposition to law enforcement’s use of FRT in our city and county.
If you reside in the City of Milwaukee, we encourage you to contact your alderperson and urge them to ban the Milwaukee Police Department’s current and future use of surveillance technologies like Facial Recognition Technology. With the permission of the Milwaukee Turners, we are sharing sample call and email scripts that can be used to contact your alderperson: bit.ly/no-frt-in-mke |  | |
LQBTQ+ Advocacy--Why?
Advocating for the LGBTQ+ community is, at its core, advocating for human rights. The “letters” simply represent people—people whose right to live openly, safely, and authentically is still denied or threatened in many areas of daily life, from housing and employment to healthcare and personal safety. The goal is not special treatment; it is equal protection, equal dignity, and freedom from discrimination. Unlike policy issues—which involve choices about public strategy and resource management—advocating for LGBTQ+ rights addresses fundamental liberties to which every person is inherently entitled. Human rights are not optional, situational, or ideological. They are the baseline conditions that allow individuals to participate fully in our democracy. Protecting everyone is central to the League’s mission. |
To stay informed about legislation affecting the LGBTQ+ community and track advocacy efforts, visit Fair Wisconsin’s Bills to Watch page:
https://fairwisconsin.com/bills-to-watch
To identify and contact your state legislators and relevant committee members, use MyVote Wisconsin: https://myvote.wi.gov
Speaking up matters.
LGBTQ+ ... All Letters Matter!
| | ICE Protests and Meetings
Following the horrifying death of another protester in Minneapolis, Alex Jeffrey Pretti, as well as the death of Renee Nicole Good and reportedly thirty-two immigrants in ICE custody, we ask that you consider participating in one or more of the following actions: |  | | ICE Out for Good
Brookfield and Waukesha Resist
Saturday, January 31, 10:30-Noon
Corner of West Bluemound Rd and Thomas Lane |  | Town Hall Meeting, Alderman Brower
Discussion Focus: ICE Activities and Operations in Milwaukee
Monday, February 2, 6:00pm
The Vivarium, 1818 N. Farwell Ave. | | |
Additional Protests:
Please consider bringing your protest sign about ICE to one of these other weekly events: Milwaukee Area Protests | | Unite & Rise 8.5 Communications Chair Jean Radtke developed an “I am 8.5” ad/video campaign concept to raise awareness of the need for and benefits of 8.5 million people protesting the current administration’s authoritarian policies. We will be asking members to share their thoughts on “WHY” they are 8.5. A concept example can be found above. | | LWVMC Unite and Rise 8.5 participated in the DEI Committee’s celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 19th. The team distributed approximately 50 postcard packets to be completed and mailed to Chief Justice Roberts, Senators Baldwin and Johnson and Representative Moore asking them to support our Constitution. We also promoted the “Free America Walkout” protests that followed the next day. | | | |
Other groups who participated in the sign making, protest, and walkout included Wisconsin Resist and Shorewood Resist. Unite & Rise 8.5 hosted a table at which approximately 100 postcard packets were distributed for completion and mailing to Chief Justice Roberts, Senator Baldwin, Senator Johnson and Congresswoman Moore asking them to stand against authoritarianism. | | | |
Come Make Protest Signs with Us & Then Hit the Streets
Saturday, February 7, 10AM-12PM
Wauwatosa Public Library, Firefly Room, 7635 W. North Ave
Followed by protesting from 12PM-1:00PM
Following poster making, protest with Indivisible Milwaukee, on 76th and North Ave. (or at another protest of your choice.) Parking is available at the library for both events. You can park, make a poster (all supplies provided with light refreshments) and then cross the street to protest! If you already have a poster, come anyway (bring a friend!) and have a treat and warm drink prior to demonstrating.
REGISTER HERE
| | |  | Money Matters - Do You Know?
If you are 70½ or older, you can make a tax-free gift called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to a 501(c)3 public charity like the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County. This gift counts toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) and is excluded from taxable income, helping you reduce your tax burden at the same time you are empowering voters and defending democracy. Contact your IRA administrator and request a QCD (with your name on the check) to:
League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County
6737 West Washington Street Ste. 2218
West Allis, WI 53214
This can be particularly helpful if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) from your IRA every year and typically withdraw the entire RMD amount at the beginning of the calendar year. | | A VARIETY OF OPPORTUNITIES FOLLOW. | | Would you Like to Serve as the LWVMC’s Representative to the Upper Mississippi Region Inter-league Organization?
Please nominate yourself for this position by completing this form.
If you would like to become more involved, that's wonderful. This post on the LWV UMRR blog describes the Action Committee and other opportunities. The LWVMC Natural Resources Committee will review the nominations and recommend its choice for approval to the Board. In addition, there is an opportunity to become a member of the UMRR ILO Board, with more responsibilities. For more information, please contact Ann Batiza at a.batiza@lwvmilwaukee.org or 414-238-3903.
| Help expand the League’s visibility and influence!
Become a member of the LWVMC’s Speakers Bureau today. Members speaking at events and for community groups expands our presence in the Community, making more people aware of the League and its mission. Now is the time to get the word out about who we are and all that we do to empower voters and defend democracy.
Whether you’ve been actively involved in LWVMC or are brand new, consider becoming a speaker for the LWVMC Speakers Bureau. Whether you are an experienced speaker or wanting to re-ignite your speaking skills, we need you! Complete this Speaker Information Form or contact Heather Godley at SpeakersBureau@lwvmilwaukee.org about your interest or with questions. |  |  | |
Start Thinking About 2026 Elections Now
This is a great time to visit MyVote.WI.gov to request your absentee ballot for the full year. And, as the image above shows, there are other great reasons to bookmark this site! Update your address, check when the next primary or election is held, and see what's on your ballot. |  | Spring Primary Online Voter Guide Is Published
The 2026 Spring Primary Online Voter Guide was published this week to VOTE411.org for the February 17, 2026 primary election.
Go to www.Vote411.org and enter your address to get started. You will see the races that appear on your primary ballot and the candidates running for these offices. Candidates participate in our online voter guide by entering their campaign information and answering the League’s questions. All candidate responses to our questions are published verbatim from the candidates; we do not edit candidate responses.
Primary race in Milwaukee County:
· Oak Creek – Franklin School District
· Franklin voters in wards 8, 12, 15, and 16 in the Oak Creek - Franklin Joint School District
· All Oak Creek voters in the Oak Creek – Franklin Joint School District
Primary races in Waukesha County:
· Waukesha County Board Supervisor District 24
· Waukesha City Alderperson District 13
· Hamilton School District (at large seat)
If your local candidates have not answered the League’s questions, please contact them and tell them you want to learn where they stand on issues in our community. If you want more information about how to do that, please contact Anita Gulotta-Connelly at a.gulotta-connelly@lwvmilwaukee.org.
|  | | Worried about protecting our elections this year? Election Protection is key to the security of our elections and to our democracy. One way to protect our elections is to become a trained Election Observer.
LWVWI is recruiting volunteers from across the state to serve as election observers for the April 7th Election. Volunteer election observers help ensure we have a fair election by watching for signs of voter disenfranchisement and intimidation and by monitoring the way Wisconsin’s election laws and procedures are being applied. Even if you only have a couple of hours on Election Day, you can still make a difference. Sign up to be an election observer today!
Learn more and sign up to volunteer here. Note: Volunteer signup will close on March 16th. |  | Interfaith March Lecture/Lunch Series: Raising Our Moral Voice
LWVMC will have a Unite & Rise table at the Interfaith March Lecture/Lunch Series at First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee, 1342 N Astor St. The luncheons are held on five Tuesdays in March. The public is invited. The cost is $20 for a vegetarian lunch for any of the five days or $90 for all five sessions. More information and registration here. | Long-term I-94 Construction May Affect Office Access
Prepare for road closures along east-west I-94 as a seven-year construction project begins in November. The construction will expand I-94 to four lanes in each direction, reconstruct the Hawley Road Interchange as a half-interchange, and reconstruct the 68th Street/70th Street Interchange, according to WisDOT. Drivers are advised to check the project's website and plan alternate routes. | Lots of Ways to Support Local Democracy and Your League. Thank You! | Follow us on Social Media! | You have received this message from the mailing list of League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County. If you would prefer not to receive these emails in the future, go to the opt-out page and modify your privacy settings. You can also request to be removed from our database completely. | |