Dear Gov. Evers,
We write with deep concern and a shared desire to see our beloved state of Wisconsin thrive. It's time to set the record straight about what the new budget does and doesn’t do, and come together to advocate for Wisconsin’s families.
As a coalition of organizations who work day in and day out on issues from climate to incarceration to education, we are beyond disheartened to see our values diminished in this budget while being told that we should be celebrating. As one example, we've been told that education funding is a top concern, but the record voucher expansion bill seriously undermines public education and special education. The 400-year trick, while clever, falls short of providing adequate funding, perpetuates existing inequities, provides a smoke-screen for voucher backers, and is susceptible to future reversals by legislative changes. This budget could have been a game-changer for our schools, providing the resources needed to ensure every child receives a quality education and has a fair shot at success.
Moreover, this was an unprecedented opportunity to make significant strides in combating racial inequities and systemic injustices that persist in our communities. Yet we stand united in our belief that this budget further exacerbates inequities toward Milwaukee and unequivocally toward Black and brown people. This budget could have marked a significant line in the sand towards fostering a more inclusive, just, and unified Wisconsin. It would have demonstrated a commitment to tackling systemic issues at their root and a commitment toward a future where everyone can thrive regardless of their race or background.
We had high hopes that this budget would prioritize investments in healthcare for all, ensuring that every Wisconsinite has access to quality medical services without the burden of financial hardship. Childcare was supposed to be a "no compromise" priority, and we are saddened and frustrated by the extreme compromise you signed into law.
In short, this budget could have been a turning point, a testament to our shared values, and a demonstration of genuine leadership. It was an opportunity to bridge divides, empower communities, and create a Wisconsin that works for everyone.
Thankfully, we can still turn this around because there is still significant surplus. It's a golden opportunity to invest in the future of Wisconsin. We can prioritize education, support families who need childcare and the professionals who provide it, and make sure everyone who needs a doctor or a hospital stay can get it without going bankrupt.
Grassroots groups who work with and for hundreds of thousands of Wisconsin residents must have access to our Governor to ensure a vital democracy. Our voices need to be heard, and dialogue is essential for progress. We have always valued when elected officials have cultivated strong stewardship with groups that directly represent a diverse Wisconsin, and we want to have that relationship with the governor's office as well. Open up your doors and let us be part of the conversation.
In your opening statements with the release of this budget, you made it sound as though Wisconsin was getting your budget. We did not. We recognize that this may be the best you could have done given the highly contentious legislature, but this is not a good compromise. Please let us know how we move forward together to get child care, public education funding, healthcare, protections for our water and air and all the rest your original budget promised for Wisconsin.
Signed,
All in Wisconsin
Black Leaders Organizing for Communities
Fair Wisconsin
Leaders Igniting Transformation
League of Women Voters of Wisconsin
Wisconsin Alliance for Excellent Schools
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign
Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice
Progress North
Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition
Wisconsin Public Education Network
