History Warns Us: Who Sits in Judgment Matters : Voters Encouraged to Attend WI Supreme Court Forums

A “jury of our peers,” most of us get why that concept is important. We understand how a jury that does not reflect us can shape courtroom outcomes. Still, many of us pay little attention to who hands out jury instructions, manages what a jury will hear, or occupies judicial seats. There is an acceptance of judges as distant figures, beyond our influence. Yet, these officials interpret laws, determine sentences, and shape legal precedents. Who sits on the bench is as important as who sits in the jury box, and history warns us that who sits in judgment matters.

In the infamous Dred Scott v. Sandford decision of 1857, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that Black people, whether enslaved or free, were not considered citizens of the United States and therefore had no legal standing to sue in federal court. The ruling also declared that Congress lacked authority to prohibit slavery in U.S. territories, strengthening the institution of slavery and denying Black Americans legal recognition under the law. And to be clear, that ruling was never overturned by another court ruling. The decision was nullified by the 13th and 14th amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Yet, courts have also served as powerful instruments for justice and protection. Enforcement of landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 provides clear examples of when the courts have helped expand voter participation, protect minority communities, and strengthen democratic representation across the nation. In many moments throughout history, judges have served as the last line of defense when other institutions failed to protect citizens from discrimination, unlawful policies, and abuses of power.

Therefore, when a recent poll conducted by Marquette University Law School found that nearly 67 percent of Wisconsin residents remain undecided in the upcoming April 7th State Supreme Court race, community groups realized that this uncertainty presented both a challenge and an opportunity. Individual local organizations decided to use their collective power to meet the moment and to unite around a shared civic purpose of creating a nonpartisan space for voters to learn about candidates’ qualifications and judicial philosophies.

Spearheaded by the Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., 11 partnering organizations have joined forces to host two important public forums focused on the upcoming election. At a time when public trust in institutions is strained, and voter participation often lags, the collaborative efforts of these institutional sororities, fraternities, civil rights groups, and service organizations remind us that democracy is not a solo act. It is built through partnerships, shared resources, and unified outreach.

The first forum will take place on March 30, 2026, at 5:30pm. and will feature Judge Maria Lazar. The second forum will be held on April 4, 2026, at 4:30pm and will feature Judge Chris Taylor. Both events will be hosted at the Dr. Martin Luther King Community Center, located at 1531 W. Vliet Street in Milwaukee. By organizing these forums in a trusted neighborhood space, the coalition of partners is ensuring that civic participation is accessible, welcoming, and rooted in the community.

In today’s political climate, civic participation cannot be optional. We have a responsibility to help shape the judiciary. Showing up at the forums to be better prepared to head to the polls.