From Rally to Reality: Fighting for Literacy and Democracy in Wisconsin

On October 10th, I received an email from the Harris-Walz campaign inviting me to their rally in Green Bay (GB), Wisconsin. One line stood out: “The campaign would love to consider you for exclusive content creator access!” I was intrigued but also confused—I’ve never thought of myself as a content creator. Still, curiosity got the best of me, and I filled out the form. A few days later, I received my “Table A” access instructions, and suddenly, I was on my way to my first political rally at age 46. 

Governor Tim Walz, Evers, and Whitmer

I brought my two boys, ages 10 and 7, to the rally, making it a family event. From the moment we arrived, the energy was palpable. After skipping the long line, we were greeted by campaign staff who treated us like VIPs. My boys were wide-eyed as they watched the security teams and law enforcement around us. It was exciting for them, but it was also a reminder for me—this was their introduction to democracy in action. 

As I listened to the speeches about progress and change, I couldn’t stop thinking about the many students for whom progress still feels out of reach—especially those struggling with basic literacy. In the moment, I felt a deep contrast between the inspiring words spoken on stage and the harsh reality that many Black students in Wisconsin face. For example, at Washington Middle School (GB, Wisconsin) in 2023-24, 91.2% of Black students are not meeting reading proficiency standards, with only 5.9% barely reaching proficiency. 

2023-2024 Forward exam data

This alarming trend is mirrored across schools throughout the state, revealing a system that is failing its students.  

Being at the rally made me realize that democracy isn’t just about speeches or elections—it’s about ensuring that everyone, especially our children, have the tools they need to succeed. What about the kids who are left behind because they can’t read? 

As someone who cares deeply about literacy and has seen firsthand the impact it has on a child’s future, these statistics hit hard. Democracy fails when access to basic rights, like education, isn’t available to everyone. 

At that moment, I saw the rally not just as a political event, but as a call to action. If we want to uphold the ideals of democracy, we need to start by addressing the literacy crisis in our own communities. We need to make sure every child in Wisconsin has access to the education they deserve, especially those from marginalized communities who are consistently left behind.  

Though I never saw myself as a content creator, this experience showed me that we all have a platform—no matter how big or small—and the power to amplify important issues like education. It’s not enough to just witness democracy—we have to act. 

We need to hold our leaders accountable for delivering real change, not just empty promises or slogans. The literacy crisis in Wisconsin, particularly for Black students, is a glaring example of where we’ve fallen short. 

You can start by contacting your local representatives, supporting literacy organizations, or advocating for high-dosage tutoring programs in your community. 

Without our voices and efforts, too many children will continue to fall through the cracks. We must demand action now.

This rally didn’t just give me a glimpse of democracy—it reminded me that we all have a role in making sure it works for everyone. Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and that starts with the ability to read. If we don’t fight for them, who will?

Sincerely, 

Shawn Anthony Robinson PhD