It's moments like this where we can decide to walk the walk, instead of just talking the talk. Changes do not get implemented or made by only talking about information to our friends and family, posting on social media, or wearing a t-shirt showing your support. While those things are all important, what makes instrumental changes in our system, is people showing up, and taking action. Making sure that our local, state and federal representatives and legislators know what is important to us, and what we demand to make a difference.
SHOW UP
When: Thursday, April 22, 2021 from 10am to 5pm
What: Joint Finance Committee Budget Listening Session
Where: UW Stout Student Service Center | 302 10th Ave E, Menomonie, WI 54751
WHAT THIS IS AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
The Joint Finance Committee for the State of Wisconsin is listening to what is important to the people of Wisconsin. This is your chance to use your voice as a citizen of Wisconsin to show them that there are topics that are incredibly important to you, and other citizens of the state.
Each individual has a 2 minute window that they are allowed, to speak about what parts of this budget are important to them and why.
If we do not show up and voice our experiences, wants and needs, then many of these issues will continue to go unnoticed, and without reform. To make a change for marginalized individuals in our community and state, we must show up and be the voice of so many who are unable to. It's time to act, and make it clear that these issues matter.
WHAT TO DO
Look over the Budget in Brief, and decide which sections you want to speak about (Remember, there is a 2 minute cap). A few highlights below are:
Pages 98-101 (mental health and substance abuse)
Pages 103-105 (affordable housing)
Pages 111-115 (criminal justice reform). The ACLU's testimonies touch on the funding of these areas from the lens of eliminating mass incarceration in Wisconsin
There are other relevant portions of the budget, but the above are just a few of the major issues that marginalized individuals are facing in Wisconsin
The format of your testimonies can be broken down as follows (2 Minute Cap):
Begin with "This Budget Matters"
Introduce yourself and identify your ask. (Be specific)
Share your personal experience that has led you to have this ask.
Relate your personal experience to the broader community needs.
Repeat your ask.
Close with "Thats why this budget matters"
The ACLU of WI will be on location with a table set up that is easily identifiable. They will be able to offer assistance to anyone preparing to speak to the Joint Finance Committee. ACLU Link for this event.