The Civil Rights Movement in Milwaukee: Key Figures and Events

Historical Context

• 1960s Milwaukee was racially divided:
  • Black community: North
  • White community: South
• The 16th Street Viaduct connected the two communities, symbolizing the divide.
• The black community faced significant challenges and tensions were high.

Key Figures

Vel Phillips

• First African-American woman to become a Milwaukee alderwoman.
• Introduced a fair housing law.

Father James Groppi

• A white priest and bus driver who supported the black community.
• Became an NAACP Youth Council advisor.
• Advocated for fair housing and civil rights.

Civil Rights Actions and Events

• Proposed Fair Housing Law:
  • Introduced by Vel Phillips, initially rejected on a 20-1 vote.
• NAACP Youth Council:
  • Led by Father Groppi, they picketed, held prayer vigils, and sang to challenge racial segregation.
• Marches for Civil Rights:
  • Started on August 28, 1967, led by Father Groppi through hostile crowds.
  • Martin Luther King Jr. supported these peaceful protests.
  • Demonstrated persistence by marching for 200 days amidst violence and tear gas.

Major Outcomes

• In 1968, after Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, racial unity increased.
• National Fair Housing Law signed by President Lyndon Johnson.
• Vel Phillips’ fair housing law finally passed in Milwaukee.

Reflections

• The struggle for fair housing was lengthy due to its controversial nature.
• The movement was grounded in the principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
• The persistence of the Milwaukee community led to significant civil rights advancements.