Citizen Action Weekend 2025 Newsletter, February 14th
Happy Valentines Day!
Join/Donate Citizen Action of Wisconsin Today!
Citizen Action of Wisconsin endorses Dr. Jill Underly for State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Vote in the Spring Primary Election by next Tuesday, February 18th.
Dr. Jill Underly is a lifelong educator running to be re-elected as Wisconsin’s Superintendent of Public Instruction. Dr. Underly has been a champion for public education in Wisconsin, leveraging her role as State Superintendent to advocate for the needs of students, teachers, and communities.
Dr. Underly continues to push for major investments in Wisconsin’s public schools and is strongly against the expansion of taxpayer-funded private school vouchers. Jill Underly put forward a budget that would finally close the public education gap. Currently, private voucher schools that allow special education students can bank on a 90% reimbursement from the state while public schools are on track to get less than 30%
She will work to halt any new, non-school board authorized chartering and all private school voucher expansion. Jill Underly is facing another onslaught by anti-public education interests as she runs for re-election.
In this critical time, Dr. Underly does not believe there is any legitimate role for ICE in our public schools. Our schools are tasked with educating all children, no matter who they are or where they come from. She also is a courageous defender of DEI programs, and wants to protect LGBTQ+ youth from an increasingly toxic political environment.
Take Action with Citizen Action in support of Jill Underly.
Citizen Action welcomes Ruben Aquino, the new Southeast Cooperative Organizer
Ruben Aquino (UW-Madison, B.S.) is the new Southeastern Co-op Organizer for Citizen Action of Wisconsin. Ruben was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and is passionate about organizing to build grassroots power, advance economic justice, and drive policy change.
Ruben brings a global perspective to his organizing having lived in China, Nepal, Hawaii, England, and Thailand.
Ruben has previous experience as a union organizer for the Hawaii Government Employee Association (HGEA). He also has worked as a mentor for at-risk youth and is passionate about labor rights and community empowerment.
Outside of organizing, Ruben enjoys practicing martial arts and connecting with people to inspire action.
Get to meet Ruben, contact him at: [email protected]
Citizen Action Driftless Organizing Co-Op Update
I keep hearing that people are feeling a sense of despair over the flurry of Trump executive orders and how it will affect their lives and that of their friends and families. People are angry and not sure how to channel that energy.
Here in the Driftless we are gathering and organizing! Driftless member Penny Fassler held a small get together with friends so that they could take time to vent their frustrations but more importantly learn how they can get involved and make a difference. We discussed the great work Citizen Action of WI is doing at the state level and our local work right here in the Driftless.
Thank you Joanne Steacie and Michael Brown for joining Penny and myself for great conversation and action planning.
If you would like to host a small get together to introduce your friends to our great work, please reach out to me. If you can’t host a get together – it’s OK – invite them to one of our upcoming events:
Finding Hope in Action – Solidarity in the Driftless: Join us for a legislative update from Rep. Jill Billings and Sen. Brad Pfaff, a discussion on current events and information on how to get involved. We will meet Friday, Feb 21st at Ginny’s Cupboard in Sparta. More info and RSVP here!
Citizen Action of WI State Budget Lobby Day – March 4th. More info and RSVP here!
Driftless Healthcare Team Meeting – TBD (Early March)
In solidarity, Kristie Tweed,Driftless Co-Op Organizer; 608-317-1331 or [email protected]
Panel and Open Discussion in Eau Claire: Child Care in the Wisconsin State Budget and Beyond – What We Have, What We Need, and What We Can Do
Friday, February 21st at 4:00pm-5:30pm on the third floor (Riverview Room) of the L.E.Phillips Memorial Public Library (400 Eau Claire St, Eau Claire, WI 54701)
Citizen Action Northwestern Co-op invites you to attend a panel discussion hosted by Wisconsin Early Childhood Action Needed (WECAN) and Ms. Julia’s Schoolia in response to shocking remarks made by State Representative Karen Hurd, a member of the Joint Finance Committee, that Republicans leadership has already decided there won’t be any more funding for child care.
Corrine Hendrickson of Wisconsin Early Childhood Action Needed (WECAN) will moderate a discussion about the importance of funding childcare in the upcoming state budget and the devastating results if the Legislature fails to fund Child Care Conts.
This will be a great chance to hear from panelists State Senator Jeff Smith, State Representative Jodi Emerson, Julia Bennker of the in-home childcare center Ms. Julia’s Schoolia, Caitlin Mitchell the director of Spots and Stripes Early Learning Center, Chris Hambuch-Boyle from Wisconsin Public Education Network, as well as a representative from the Wisconsin Alliance for Infant Mental Health.
FREE & Open to the Public. Share the event on Facebook
Attend media event announcing The Climate Action Accountability Act, Monday February 24th, Noon, Milwaukee.
Join Citizen Action of Wisconsin, State Senator Chris Larson, and State Representative Supreme Moore Omokunde, and allies for a media event on Monday, February 24th, Noon, in Milwaukee to announce new state legislation, The Climate Action Accountability Act. The bill requires Wisconsin for the first time in its history to adopt an accountable climate action plan. Its provisions are simple, but critical:
- Requires the next state Legislature to pass a concrete and enforceable plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, in accordance with the Paris Climate Accords and the global consensus of climate scientists.
- Requires the plan to maximize the economic benefits of climate action for all Wisconsin residents, especially people in urban and rural areas currently locked out of economic opportunities.
To join us Monday, February 24th, Noon, contact: [email protected]
RSVP for Citizen Action Capitol Lobby Day on the State Budget, Tuesday, March 4th!
It is time for our State Legislature to put the money where we the people need it.
Citizen Action members from across Wisconsin will gather in Madison to talk to our state legislators about our state budget priorities.
Read Citizen Action’s Letter to Governor Tony Evers’ with Citizen Action’s budget priorities.
Plan on needing to free up the whole day for this event. We will help organize transportation which will leave from multiple cities in the morning to drive to Madison. We will meet before heading to the Capitol to talk directly to legislators during the mid-day. Following our visits with legislators, we will debrief together and make plans for continuing our lobbying back home.
RSVP here and an organizer will follow up with you.
Citizen Action announces Spring Endorsements in local elections
All endorsed candidates completed a Citizen Action 2025 candidate questionnaire, were interviewed by Citizen Action members from the regional organizing cooperative and recommended for endorsement. All endorsements are then voted on and approved by the statewide Citizen Action of Wisconsin Board.
North Side Rising Organizing Cooperative
James Ferguson, II – Milwaukee Public School Board, District 4
James Ferguson, II is a proud product of MPS, has remained heavily involved, and has a lifelong commitment to our public schools.
James is the current school board member and demonstrates a willingness to reach out to all stakeholders in the community in search of what is best for kids.
He expressed enthusiasm and optimism about MPS’ future. He will lead with inclusivity for all kids.
Northwestern Organizing Cooperative
Jasmine Case – Eau Claire Area School Board
Jasmine has a daughter attending Eau Claire Public Schools, and she works at UW-Eau Claire as the Director of the Center for Service-Learning, formerly an instructor in the Department of English.
She will work with us and other stakeholders to find her power and advance a progressive agenda.
Jasmine recognizes that there will be many challenges under the Trump Administration, and as a professional educator her voice will be valuable.
Stephanie Farrar – Eau Claire School Board
Stephanie Farrar has children in the public schools and will conduct a grassroots door to door campaign to share her values.
She has been a strong public advocate for more state funding for public schools, and does a lot to educate the public about private voucher schools taking money away from public schools.
Stephanie sees Citizen Action as a key ally to protect public schools, teachers and students.
“I continue to believe that public education is the foundation of our democracy. I believe that every student deserves an education that meets them where they are and helps them achieve their goals. I believe every student has a right to see themselves represented in the curriculum and a need to learn about those who are different from them. I believe the role of the school board is to set the values and vision while ensuring that qualified educators make day-to-day decisions that best serve our kids. I know the state legislature has let down districts across the state for too long while the state constitution requires that they provide necessary resources. I’m ready to advocate harder than ever on behalf of our students, educators, and community.” – Stephanie Farrar
Tim Nordin – Eau Claire School Board
Tim Nordin holds a PhD in Education Policy, his kids attend Eau Claire Public Schools, and he has been serving as president of the board for nearly 5 years.
Tim has been a strong public voice for students and staff, and has a track record of meeting with Citizen Action members to advance topics such as the district’s Climate Commitment, and educate about how voucher schools are not accountable and are a designed attempt to end public education.
Citizen Action members have respected his leadership during the pandemic and during several school district referendums.
Sherry Jasper – Chippewa Falls School Board
Sherry lives is a retired school counselor with the Chippewa Falls School District. Her focus is on doing what is best for all kids, in a tough political environment.
She has built her reputation on listening and speaking up to help find a middle ground or points of agreement on the Board that are for the benefit of all kids.
“Our schools work hard to give kids the best they can. We balance a lot to make that happen. As a school board member, I’ve dedicated myself to listening, learning, advocating and working to find a way forward so all kids can learn.” – Sherry Jasper
Driftless Organizing Cooperative
Merideth Garcia – La Crosse School Board
Merideth Garcia is a current La Crosse School Board member running for re-election. She is well versed on the topics our members care about. Fundamentally, Merideth believes in supporting teachers and funding an environment where all students can learn.
Meredith is very knowledgeable about the negative effects of the private voucher and charter schools in the La Crosse area and is opposed to public school dollars going to private schools or charter schools not under the purview of public school boards.
Her passion and strong support for public schools is very important in this current political environment.
“I want every teacher to have the resources they need to teach and every student in the district to feel a sense of safety and community at school. We have to be loud and clear that every student who lives in our district–whatever their race, gender identity, sexuality, socio-economic status, disability, or home language–deserves our respect and support.” – Merideth Garcia
Crystal Bedford – La Crosse City Council
Crystal Bedford’s core values clearly align with Citizen Action. She will be a needed, strong voice for progressive values on the La Crosse City Council.
Crystal speaks passionately about how her personal experiences have made her a strong advocate for progressive values.
Crystal will be an immediate leader on the City Council for finding real solutions to the growing need for affordable housing in the City of La Crosse.
Watch video of Crystal announcing her endorsement by Citizen Action of Wisconsin.
Mac Kiel – La Crosse City Council
Mac Kiel is an incumbent running for La Crosse City Council. She is knowledgeable about shared revenue and said she is encouraging Governor Tony Evers to fight for an increase in shared revenue from the state to municipalities and to fully funding public schools.
Mac has a strong history of voting for progressive policies and a strong voice on the Council.
Mac has a passion for climate work and will work with Citizen Action Driftless Cooperative members to address climate change in La Crosse.
“I’m honored to have the endorsement of Citizen Action of Wisconsin in my run for La Crosse City Council! Their commitment to economic justice, racial equity, and creating real opportunities for working-class Wisconsinites aligns with my vision for a stronger, more inclusive La Crosse.
This is the kind of bold, values-driven leadership we need at every level of government. I’m ready to work for a La Crosse that uplifts every person, ensures access to affordable housing, living wages, and strong community programs, and stands against inequality in all forms.
Let’s make real change together.” – Mac Kiel
Lisa Weston – La Crosse City Council
Lisa Weston is running for La Crosse City Council for the first time and is very well aligned with Citizen Action’s platform and core values.
Lisa is very concerned about ICE coming into our community public spaces and schools in their pursuit of our neighbors.
Lisa is a strong supporter of public schools and will join us in opposing public funds for private voucher or charter schools.
“I am honored to share that I have been endorsed by Citizen Action of Wisconsin. Join me in fighting for justice for every human. Every human. Every. Single. One.” – Lisa Weston
Molly Fuchs – La Crosse School Board
Molly Fuchs is a first time candidate for school board and is very well aligned with Citizen Action’s platform and core values.
She is emphatically against public money going to private voucher and non accountable charter schools.
“I am very excited and honored to announce that I received my first endorsement from Citizen Action of Wisconsin!” – Molly Fuchs
Aron Newberry – La Crosse City Council
Aron Newberry is committed to service, leadership, and building a stronger La Crosse community where everyone thrives. Aron Newberry has unapologetically progressive values and has a work history where he has advocated for progressive change.
Aron was the Director/Health Officer at Trempealeau County Health Department. He uncovered inequities in the department’s vaccination of the immigrant population and made sure the policy was changed. As a public health professional and veteran, Aron knows the importance of evidence-based policy to create real solutions.
Citizen Action in the News
Citizen Acton’s Robert Kraig was on the Earl Ingram Show for the final three segments (following Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson) to discuss the latest development in the constitutional crisis unfolding in Washington.
Robert is on Earl’s show every Wednesday from 9 AM to 10 AM on the statewide Civic Media Network. Station list here.
Listen to “Vote for Jill Underly in Tuesday’s Primary Election” Battleground Wisconsin Podcast
We announce Citizen Action’s endorsement of Jill Underly’s re-election as Superintendent of Public Instruction. There is a primary election next Tuesday, February 18th. Please make sure you vote.
Next Tuesday evening Governor Tony Evers will give his budget address speech commencing the legislative portion of the state budget process which will play out over the next few months. We preview our call for Governor Evers to veto any state budget that doesn’t include better public school funding, accepting the federal Medicaid money for BadgerCare. He should also veto any budget that builds new state prisons. We are partnering with Wisconsin Public Education Network and WISDOM in this organizing campaign and urge all our listeners to call Governor Evers office next week and urge him to fight for these public priorities.
As we head into a critical State Supreme Court election, Justice Janet Protasiewicz announces she will not recuse herself in the upcoming Act 10 case. We comment on the “Our billionaire is better than your billionaire” election funding of our major elections.
We note the overwhelming bi-partisan support in a state Senate Committee this week for an expansion of Medicaid Postpartum Care, which Speaker Robin Vos continues to block. We urge our listeners to call their state representatives and urge them to push for a vote.
We close with the many low lights of the 4th week of Trump Regime 2.0, including more clarity on Trump and the Congressional Republicans’ plans to gut federal Medicaid funding, denying healthcare for millions of Americans.
Listen to the show!
RSVP for Citizen Action Capitol lobby Day on the State Budget, Tuesday, March 4th.
Social media post of the week
