WISCONSIN UPDATE: A MESSAGE FROM THE FRONT LINES

Protesters rally in the Wisconsin State Capitol rotunda.
(photo provided)



Wisconsin Update: A message from the front lines

Monday, February 21

We currently have four emissaries on the ground in Madison to ensure CSEA's support of workers in Wisconsin and in this national line-in-the-sand fight for worker rights. Mary Sullivan, Joe McMullen, Mike Sheldon and Jon Premo arrived in Madison after a difficult trip that included a canceled flight and busing for hours to their final destination on Sunday night. Luggage is missing but our troops march on.

They connected with leaders last night and attended a briefing this morning. Crowds of 100,000 are expected today and the statehouse and surrounding area is filling fast. They report things are very organized with AFL/AFSCME, Teachers and Students dividing up duties and assignments.

Mary Sullivan addressed the crowd in the rotunda this morning to wild cheers. Mike and Jon are acting as marshalls in and around the rotunda.

Will provide more as it comes in. Video and additional pictures expected if technology allows.

Tuesday, February 22

Just got a full report on the days activities. The main theme is the positive energy among the students, retirees and workers present. There are contingents from unions of all stripes and from all around the US. The energy does not wane... it just keeps thumping all day and night.

Joe McMullen also got the opportunity to speak in the Rotunda. Mary described the circle of student drummers who have been at this station in the center of the Rotunda since the beginning. In the center of the drumming circle is where speakers address the protestors.

Each morning there is a briefing at the Best Western across the street from the Capital building. There, assignments and the days activities are discussed. Mike and Jon have volunteered to act as Marshals. At the briefing this morning, one of the Wisconsin Democratic State Legislators, Mark Miller conferenced in to fire up leaders.

There were two rallies today. One outside the Statehouse and another inside. There was also a concert that could seat 5,000 which was reportedly quickly filled to capacity.

Rumors were flying that Gov Walker was going to offer a compromise, but at a press conference this afternoon he reiterated his position without change.

Another note from our Wisconsin Four is that police and troopers are especially cooperative and everyone has been respectful and events peaceful.

Finally, it is really cold there and 4-6 inches of snow are expected tonight.

Steve Alviene
CSEA