What We Believe
We must insist on real change. And, we need your help.
Black Americans suffer from police brutality and crippling fear caused by systemic racism and implicit bias that is ingrained in our legal system, law enforcement institutions, and countless other facets of American life.
This is unacceptable. Black Lives Matter. We have a responsibility to act.
Read the full statement from State Bar Leadership
What We're Doing
Stepping Up
While issues of race in the justice system are at the forefront of many State Bar of Wisconsin efforts, we know we must do more.
The State Bar’s Racial Justice Leadership Group, appointed in June 2020, is working to combat racial injustice and disparities, advance equal justice, and promote diversity and inclusion by:
advancing a proposal that requires Wisconsin lawyers receive elimination of bias/diversity and inclusion training;
focusing on greater diversity and inclusion within the State Bar, collaborating with affinity bar groups, the law schools, and other stakeholders to promote greater diversity of law students, faculty, and presenters, a well as racial justice education and anti-racism training at the law schools; and
reviewing existing and suggested legislation related to race equity and justice for the next legislative session.
Addressing Disparities by Advancing Policy Priorities
The State Bar has been working to address disparities throughout Wisconsin’s justice system, including issues related to expungement, bail reform, juvenile justice, civil legal aid funding, exoneree compensation, and adequate investment in the justice system.
See our policy priorities and help take action.
Building Awareness of Mass & Disparate Incarceration in Wisconsin
When Wisconsin rose to the top in the nation for the highest incarceration rates of African-Americans, the State Bar convened a symposium of community leaders. The result was an education program and advocacy focus on how Wisconsin might change this course.
Read more.
Redoubling Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
The State Bar is deliberate and intentional in its efforts to bring diverse voices to the table to influence conversations and policy decisions. It is a focus of the State Bar's
guiding principles and
strategic priorities. But, there’s more to do.
An Action Plan ensures our accountability in creating a culture that attracts and engages diverse leaders and staff in all aspects of the organization’s work. In addition, an oversight committee, along with committed leadership and staff, work together to advance diversity and inclusion.
Share Your Ideas
We welcome your ideas on how the State Bar can combat racial injustice! Contact
Mike Wiltse, Public Relations Specialist, at
mwiltse@wisbar.org.*
