1000 Friends of Wisconsin stands for racial justice.

We pledge to do our part to right the injustices faced by black American communities due to centuries of structural racism and to guarantee the livability of Wisconsin for all of its people.

1000 Friends talks a lot about healthy communities. The fact is living in a healthy community is out of reach for many.

We believe everyone has the right to live in a community that is healthy, equitable and resilient. Communities that provide accessible and affordable transportation options that connect people to jobs, health care, schools, and healthy food. Communities where affordable housing is truly affordable – not just some developer’s idea of affordable. Communities that offer parks and recreation opportunities that are safe for everyone. Communities where all residents have a voice not just a chosen few.

What we’re seeing now is the result of decades of land use and transportation decisions that have produced a system inherently unequal; where black and brown Americans are more likely to be struck and killed while walking, are less likely to own a home, are more likely to suffer from transportation-related air pollution and are targeted by the police in public spaces that are supposed to be safe for everyone.

1000 Friends is committed to work to ensure healthy communities are not just for the privileged few, but for everyone. We are committed to move forward practicing anti-racism both personally and in our work and to listen, learn and act to make our communities safer for everyone.

Second in Gregg May's blog series



As Wisconsin has become more auto-dependent, local ordinances have responded to accommodate vehicles. Our regulations have helped mandate a land use pattern - Mandatory Parking Minimums - that is conducive to vehicles at the expense of all other forms of travel.

Climate Change Task Force Public Hearings: Here's How to Participate
Gov. Evers’ Climate Change Task Force is holding public hearings in June and July. This is your chance to speak up! Please share policy recommendations and climate change stories to ensure Wisconsin is a leader in fighting the climate crisis.
Virtual Public Hearings Schedule
  • Tuesday, June 23, 6:00-8:00
  • Saturday, June 27, 12:00-2:00
  • Tuesday, July 7, 6:00-8:00
  • Thursday, July 9, 6:00-8:00
  • Wednesday, July 15, 6:00-8:00
How to participate in the public hearings
What to Recommend
  • 1000 Friends sent a letter to Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes with our top transportation recommendations for the Task Force. Three recommendations listed in the letter:
  • Increase funding for Wisconsin’s public transit systems by at least $50M per year through the state budget to help meet current and future needs.
  • Increase state funding for the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) by $10 million/biennium.
  • Facilitate an open marketplace that encourages EV purchases.
  • Propose the permanent re-authorization of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund. Stewardship funding is only guaranteed until the end of this budget.
Climate Change Task Force Website
Photo credit: Camille Lore

Thanks for supporting the1kfriends 2020 Birdathon Team!

We saw over 100 brids and raised $620 to support Wisconsin birds.
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