Milwaukee, WI
Black men in Milwaukee share their views on the election | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Who will Black men vote for on Election Day?
The topic has generated headlines this political season.
Last month, Vice President Kamala Harris told members of the National Association of Black Journalists that she is not assuming “Black men are in anybody’s pocket” as she campaigns to lead the White House.
Harris’ comments come at a time when some in the Democratic party, like former President Barack Obama, fear Black men may sit out this election.
With the election only a week away, NNS spoke to seven Black men in Milwaukee who expressed a diverse range of concerns about the election and the candidates they support.
Here’s what they told us:
Robert E. Homes III
Age: 54
Occupation: Business owner
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “I think Kamala Harris is mentally capable of being the president of the United States, unlike the last two presidents.”
What issues are important to you in this election? “The issue that is important to me is the economy. But I know it will never be addressed, no matter who is in office. I think both parties need to regroup and put America first on the agenda. There are a lot of things that need fixing here, including bridges, buildings, etc.”
East Harris
Age: 38
Occupation: Large batch furnace operator
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “Not a whole lot of positives, to be honest with you. One person had people in prison beyond their prison terms, to have cheap labor for their particular district. The other person is a super elderly, some may call, crazy person.”
What issues are important to you in this election? “How we are represented internationally. I look at it, like, who represents me better as a Black man, when you go to China? … Because we can tell ourselves anything here, yeah, you know what I’m saying? But when we’re not around, what do people say?”
Erik Ngutse
Age: 33
Occupation: Community engagement director
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “I’m very excited about Trump’s candidacy. I think it will be great to return to where homes are affordable and you can buy a car and the economy is doing phenomenally. Harris frightens me a little. I just think she has poor leadership. I don’t think she has the capability, and she seems to just be continuing a lot of Biden’s policy. We’ve seen what comes of that, so I’m not excited for that at all.”
What issues are important to you in this election? “I’m a millennial, and right now, a lot of people in my age bracket are unable to afford homes. I think that’s something that’s fairly simple, that a common person would look at and say, ‘Hey, I remember when I could afford a home, and now I can’t afford a home.’ And then the southern border issue. Immigration is out of control. … For me, because when these things happen, they affect the Black community more than any other community.”
Public safety “is always important,” Ngutse said. “And I think our community, more than any other community, we see an increase of violence, especially in Milwaukee, and that’s something that I look forward to having a commander in chief who understands that our communities deserve to be safe as well.”
Roy Rogers
Age: 47
Occupation: Manufacturing coach
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “Right now, for me, I do not like Trump’s political decorum, right? I think as the leader of the free world that you have to have a better political ethic than what he presents, an ethic that’s more unifying and less polarizing, because you have a lot at stake. … As far as Harris is concerned, I’m always for anyone who is seeking to, number one, bring the country together, since we deal with so many dividing issues. So, we need someone who is able to think through to the best of their ability objectively, so that each constituent can, let’s say, go home with something on their plate.”
What issues are important to you in this election? “The economy and jobs, of course. And, the whole voting policy. … You know, we do have mechanisms in place where we don’t have to start amending constitutions in order to put out fires that don’t exist yet, right? So for me, number one, it’s the economy, and it’s protecting the voting rights.”
Greg Griffin
Age: 46
Occupation: Assistant director of Student Support Services for Marquette University
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “I think that both candidates have their platforms that they want to move forward, their agendas, that they want to move forward. And so at the end of the day, I think those are the two who came on top. I think right now, it’s important that we focus on how can the next generation, the next individuals, who would like to run for office, whether it’s at the local level or even in the national level.
What issues are important to you in this election?
“There’s a lot of issues, but I just think that the gun violence really is something that we really need to pay close attention to because it just, it hurts my soul to know that somebody can easily just go out on the streets or wherever, to get a gun, and then turn around and use it for evil. So I just think, gun violence is something that we really should pay close attention to.”
Bryant Ewing
Age: 21
Occupation: Political science student at Marquette University
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “I think we need more progressive candidates across the board. I think that people deserve it. I think we’re past, frankly, we’re past poverty as a society. I don’t think we should be giving money to foreign countries so that we can start wars. I don’t think that billionaires should be paying nothing in taxes, and I think both parties are lacking in that department. I will say for representation like Kamala Harris, does a lot in terms of like being the most presidential, she’s got it down. …”
What issues are most important to you in this election? “For me, I’m focused on the long-term health of the American economy (bringing back manufacturing), America’s wealth inequality, and the genocide in Palestine. I’m also worried about American democracy.”
Raevion Piggee
Age: 21
Occupation: Psychology student at Marquette University and a field organizer for RISE, a Gen-Z-led youth organization on a mission to build students’ political power.
What do you think of the candidates for this election? “My opinion on the candidates for this year’s election is, well, let’s start off for Donald Trump. It baffles me that he gets to run as president with 34 felony convictions. No one is really talking about that, or, you know, reprimanding him for even, you know, trying to be an elected official for our country and represent our country, or even, you know, trying to better our country when he’s not a better person himself. … For Kamala Harris, I think that, you know, she’s a wonderful candidate.”
What issues are most important to you in this election?
“I am most concerned about voter suppression in this election.”
For additional information about the election, including how to find your district, check out the Wisconsin Watch 2024 Voter Guide.
Every week, Milwaukee With Kids answers a simple question for families across the area: What are we going to do this weekend? From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. For the full weekend list, make sure to visit the Milwaukee With Kids website.
Featured event
Sunday Family Fun Day
Northwestern Mutual Park
June 7 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The season’s first Sunday Family Fun Day at the play area located in Henry Maier Festival Park will celebrate Summerfest with a day of creativity and hands-on fun. Enjoy performances from the Milwaukee Ballet and Milwaukee Flyers; an Eagles & Friends raptor show by Schlitz Audubon Nature Center; activities with the Betty Brinn Museum Wonder Wagon; and food from Babalou Gourmet, Fazio’s Gourmet Popcorn, Pete’s Pops, and Sils Mini Donuts & Coffee.
To do in Tosa
Art 64
Village of Wauwatosa
June 5-6
The nation’s largest live bracket-style painting tournament is back! In addition to the friendly creative competition, live music, food trucks, vendors and an art market, this annual event features a Family Play Zone with kids’ activities, face painting, bubbles and crafting stations.
Tosa Farmer’s Market Opening Day
Hart Mills Parking Lot | Wauwatosa
June 6 | 8 a.m.-Noon
For over 10 years, this open-air market has supported local farmers, food producers and artisans to help create a more sustainable community. You can start the day with yoga in the park at 8:30 a.m. or drop in anytime before noon to enjoy vendors of all kinds, live music and engaging activities for all ages.
Kids Ultimate Frisbee Clinic
Hart Park | Wauwatosa
June 6 | 2:30-4 p.m.
Learn to play ultimate frisbee from the Milwaukee Monarchs! This free clinic run by professional players is intended for kids in grades 1-6 and will include a brief instructional period to teach throwing and catching, followed by several short games of ultimate. Participants should come with appropriate clothing, a water bottle and a positive attitude. Plus, there will be a bounce house, face painting, food and drinks, and everyone gets a free ticket to watch the Monarchs take on the Austin Torch at 5 p.m. at Hart Park.
More openings
Paddles & Pops Grand Opening
Discovery World
June 6 | 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Join Forward Outdoor for this celebration at the Discovery World dock featuring $10 boat rentals, free popsicles starting at 1 p.m. (while supplies last) and beginner-friendly fun on the water. You’ll find kayaks, paddleboards, hydro bikes and paddle boats to pilot in the protected waters surrounding Discovery World, Lakeshore State Park and Summerfest.
Farmer’s Market Opening Day
Deer District
June 7 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Visit one of the area’s newest farmer’s markets, as more than 100 vendors set up shop in the Deer District every Sunday. Farmers and other food producers will offer fresh and organic meats, eggs, fruits, cheeses and vegetables, plus you’ll find bakery items, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. Make sure to visit the Taste It Tent for samples of new foods available at the market and a kids’ area with games and activities for families to enjoy.
Connect with community
Milwaukee Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff
Center Street Branch
June 5 | Noon-4 p.m.
Stop by to celebrate the warm months and the annual Summer Reading Program offered by the Milwaukee Public Library. Everyone is welcome at this family-friendly event that invites folks of all ages to sign up while enjoying activities and light refreshments. If you can’t make it to the Center Street Branch, visit the East Branch on Saturday anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
50th Anniversary Celebration
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center
June 6 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
The center has a great day of programming planned to celebrate a half-century in our community. Music will flow throughout the event as you check out a variety of activities, from face painting and other arts to boxing and karate demonstration. There will also be building and mural tours during the afternoon that include a 50th anniversary souvenir giveaway.
West Allis A La Carte
Greenfield Avenue | West Allis
June 7 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
This festival takes over the blocks between 70th and 76th streets for a day filled with activities that bring together every member of the community. Enjoy music ranging from blues to bluegrass and food vendors serving authentic Mexican cuisine, Filipino flavors, barbecue, bakery and more!
Fun in nature
Fairy Fest
Riveredge Nature Center | Saukville
June 6 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
For one day each year, Riveredge becomes extra magical as they celebrate mythology, lore and the flying beings that inhabit the center. Meet Mermaid Echo and celebrate nature with fairy friends, including real-life pollinators like butterflies, dragonflies and bees that help plants thrive. Visitors are also encouraged to wear their best fairy-related costume and bring a little extra magic to the day.
Reptile Day
Wehr Nature Center | Franklin
June 7 | Noon-4 p.m.
Bring the whole family for a wild day of fun as you get up close with amazing snakes, charming turtles, and one-of-a-kind lizards and salamanders. Curious kids and grown-ups alike can go on a guided nature hike to search for turtles, listen for croaking frogs and learn cool ways to care for the scaly (and often misunderstood) creatures that share our world. Then dive into free reptile-themed crafts and grab a bite of tasty food available for purchase, with proceeds supporting Friends of Wehr.
Tears, prayers, songs and memories filled the Lancaster Elementary School parking lot June 2 as family, friends and fellow members of S.I.G. Youth Fraternity, Inc. gathered at a Blackout Community memorial to honor Pepe Sikisi-Belle Jr.
Sikisi-Belle, 22, was killed May 30 during a birthday party for his son at Center Street Park in Milwaukee. During the private memorial, loved ones shared stories of the Milwaukee man, who was known within the fraternity as “House Party.”
‘He was the life of the party’
The memorial was emceed by fellow S.I.G. Youth Fraternity member Juanie Johnson, who said he had known Sikisi-Belle, a father of three, since he was a freshman.
“I actually pledged him into [S.I.G. Youth Fraternity], so I’ve had the opportunity to work with Pepe since he was in ninth grade,” Johnson said. “Like we said, we’re here to celebrate his life. This is what we do when one of our members passes. Just remember that although he’s gone, he will forever live in our hearts.”
Several fraternity brothers remembered Sikisi-Belle as the ‘life of the party’ who regularly checked on friends and family.
Speakers said Sikisi-Belle’s fraternity name, “House Party,” reflected not only his outgoing personality but also the comfort he provided to others. One fraternity member described him as a sincere soul who was always there for those around him, while others recalled his playful side and said he was known for teasing and trolling his friends.
One of Sikisi-Belle’s fraternity line brothers was too emotional to speak during the memorial, so Johnson spoke on his behalf.
“They were like two peas in a pod. They gave me a headache,” Johnson said. “They used to always get in trouble together, but to know Pepe is to love Pepe. He was always the life of the party, the spirit of the party, and he used to call me every morning just to be like, ‘You good, bro?’”
Sikisi-Belle’s parents also attended the memorial and shared remarks about their son.
“I miss my son,” said Marissa Bopilo, Sikisi-Belle’s mother. “I know that he loves y’all very, very much, and he’ll live on with us for the rest of our lives.”
Bopilo said she hopes those responsible for her son’s death are brought to justice.
“He was the life of the party, and he was definitely loved by many,” Bopilo said after the memorial. “I’m hoping things move forward with the situation. I’m hoping that we get justice.”
Members of the organization blew out candles one by one in honor of Sikisi-Belle before closing the memorial with a song.
Sikisi-Belle died from multiple gunshot wounds
At 6:47 p.m. May 30, Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Center Street Park, 420 W. Clarke St., for reports of a shooting.
When authorities arrived, they found Sikisi-Belle dead from at least two gunshot wounds to his upper torso, according to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office.
A 25-year-old Milwaukee woman was arrested at the scene in connection with the shooting. MCSO said the woman knew Sikisi-Belle and was found with two firearms in her possession.
As of June 3, no criminal charges had been filed in the case.
Adrienne Davis is a south suburban reporter for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Got any tips or stories to share? Contact Adrienne at amdavis@gannett.com. Follow her on X at @AdriReportss.
Pride Month is here, and Milwaukee is showing up ready to slay with a packed calendar. Whether you’re looking to find love with The Butchelorette, cruise through the city in a Pride motorcycle ride, bring the whole family to the Pride Parade, or dance the night away at PrideFest, there’s something for everyone to uplift and celebrate Milwaukee’s LGBTQ+ community.
1. Milwaukee Film Pride Month Series
ALL MONTH | ORIENTAL THEATRE
Milwaukee Film curated a program of campy, fun, queer films to watch all month long. The “Queerious“ series comprises films that fit into the category of “Historians Would Say They Were Roommates or Good Friends,” including The Color Purple, Challengers, Rope, and Johnny Guitar. And the Summer Camp 2 series features campy classics like But I’m a Cheerleader, She’s the He, Victor/Victoria, and Burlesque. Plus, of course, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, featuring Milwaukee’s Sensual Daydreams cast performing live alongside the film, screening June 13.
2. Pop Pride: In Full Color
JUNE 1-7 | POP WALKER’S POINT
Pop in Walker’s Point has a full slate of events to kick off Pride Month, including bingo, a “Drag Race” watch party, plenty of DJs and a bunch of drag shows, including a day full of performances on June 7 alongside the Pride Parade. See the full lineup here.
RELATED READS: YOUR GUIDE TO THIS YEAR’S PRIDEFEST
3. Queer Oasis with Lou’s Moms
JUNE 4 FROM 4-7 P.M. | CACTUS CLUB
Local DJ duo Lou’s Moms — self-described as having “fantastically omnivorous musical taste” — are spinning tunes to “make your heart swoon” in a celebration of queer community at Cactus Club. This event is free to attend.
4. PrideFest
JUNE 4-6 | HENRY MAIER FESTIVAL PARK
There’s something for everyone at Milwaukee’s annual PrideFest. Whether you want to kick back and relax by the lakefront, shop around local LGBTQ+ vendors, or dance the night away with DJs and drag performances, there’s much packed into the lineup this year.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
5. Ride With Pride
JUNE 6 AT 10 A.M. | DAVIDSON PARK
The world’s largest Pride motorcycle ride is back! It’ll begin at Davidson Park, and the police-escorted ride will go throughout Milwaukee and end at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Everyone who registers will receive a commemorative poker chip, and patches will be available for purchase. Register in person or online here.
6. Drag Queen Story Hour
JUNE 6 FROM 10:30-11:30 A.M. | COLECTIVO PROSPECT CAFE
Stop by Colectivo’s Prospect Cafe for a drag queen story hour to celebrate Pride with the little ones! And while you’re there, you can grab one of their Pride watercolor cookies, too.
7. Milwaukee Pride Parade
JUNE 7 AT 2 P.M. | SECOND STREET IN WALKER’S POINT
With the theme “Together We Are Pride,” the Milwaukee Pride Parade is back for its 22nd year. The first Pride parade in Milwaukee was a political protest. Today, thousands of folks come together for the parade to celebrate the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
8. Pride Parade Watch Party & Flea Market
JUNE 7 FROM NOON-5 P.M. | POMEROY
Get a prime seat for watching the Pride Parade and shop vintage clothing, get a flash tattoo, and sip a cold drink at Pomeroy’s watch party, located right along the parade route.
9. Flour Girl and Flame Pop-Up
JUNE 7 AT 6 P.M. | ESTEREV
Raising money for the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center, LGBTQ+-owned Flour Girl and Flame will be whipping up pizzas at EsterEv in Bay View after the Pride Parade until they sell out.
10. Pride Parade Queer Afterparty
JUNE 7 AT 7 P.M. | THE COOPERAGE
Venus Social Club and Pole Factory are teaming up to keep the party going after the Pride Parade. Inside, dance the night away to a lineup of DJs. Outside, watch a show from Pole Factory’s Sapphic Sirens, shop LGBTQ+ vendors, get a tattoo, enjoy a featured drink, or participate in the arm wrestling competitions. The event is for ages 21+, and tickets are available online here.
11. The Sapphic Butchlorette
JUNE 12 AT 10:30 P.M. | CACTUS CLUB
Ever wondered what it’d be like to see a sapphic version of “The Bachelorette”? Well, this is exactly that. Live at Cactus Club, eight contestants will compete for local tattoo artist Syd Lange’s love. Dress formal/semi-formal and be ready to dance the night away at the afterparty with DJ Mya Goetsch and DJ Femme Noir on the music. Get tickets here.
12. Brewers Pride Night
JUNE 12 AT 6:40 P.M. | AMERICAN FAMILY FIELD
From an LGBTQ+ makers market to the national anthem sung by singer/songwriter and sister duo REYNA, the Brewers are hosting a night of celebration for Pride. They’re playing the Philadelphia Phillies. Get tickets here.
13. Read With Pride Romance Book Fair
JUNE 13 FROM 10 A.M.-3 P.M. | BAIRD CENTER
If you grew up on the Scholastic Book Fair, this event is for you. The Well Red Damsel is bringing over 25 romance authors together – along with vendors including The Fruity Studio, Geeky Elves, and Good Stick Co. – for a day celebrating LGBTQ+ love stories. Admission is free, but the event is taking donations on-site for Courage+.
14. Sapphics in the Sun: Picnic
JUNE 13 FROM 1-4 P.M. | LAKE PARK
Milwaukee’s lesbian and sapphic events group CHOSEN is hosting a picnic at Lake Park. It’ll have yard games and music, and it’s bring-your-own snacks, chairs and blankets. RSVP here.
15. Midtown Pride
JUNE 13 FROM 3-7 P.M. | JOY ICE CREAM SOCIAL
Celebrate Pride in Tosa at Joy Ice Cream Social, with family and dance yoga, face painting, DIY tie-dye bandanas, a dunk tank, live music from Billy Goat Rodeo, and food trucks Heirloom and Tots on the Street.
16. Queer Karaoke
JUNE 17 AT 7 P.M. | CACTUS CLUB
The third Wednesday of every month, Cactus Club hosts Queer Karaoke – and, of course, Pride Month is no exception. Sing your heart out and hang out – if you liked it, you can go back the next month.
17. Born This Slay Drag Show
JUNE 17 AT 6:30 P.M. | CAFE CENTRAAL
“Don’t be a drag, just be a queen” at Cafe Centraal at this drag show featuring queens Roxy Toxin, Aubrey del Mar, Blythe, Ayesha Voodoo, and Jezebel Diamond St. Klare. Tickets are available here.
18. Pride Party
JUNE 18 FROM 4-7 P.M. | PRITZLAFF BUILDING COURTYARD
Milwaukee Airwaves and LGBTQ+- and woman-owned Miss Ruby Bridal Boutique are teaming up to bring a Pride party to the Pritzlaff Building. Expect a photo booth, Chase My Creations clothing, and food trucks, including Tots on the Street, Cocina Filipina, Paleteria Yayo and more.
19. Queer Book Club
JUNE 24 AT 6 P.M. | THIRST BOOKS
Thirst Books’ Queer Book Club is aptly having its first meeting during Pride Month. They’ll be reading a spicy sapphic alien romance by Emma Elizabeth. RSVP for free here.
20. Thrift & Sips: Pride Owned Edition
JUNE 27 FROM 11 A.M.-4 P.M. | STYLE POP CAFE
Shop local LGBTQ+-owned thrift and vintage shops and sip a bit of coffee at Style Pop Cafe’s Pride event. There will be lots of clothes, accessories and home decor to browse.
21. Sapphic Paint & Sip
JUNE 27 AT 6:30 P.M. | VIBEZ CREATIVE ART SPACE
CHOSEN is partnering with Vibez Creative Art Space for an evening of sapphic community and art. Tickets include a drink and painting supplies – and plenty of fun to be had. Get tickets here.
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