Madison, Wisconsin

Okay, so what a day!

First, I was invited to a book club meeting at Prof. Carl Grant's house in Madison, Wisconsin. The book that we discussed was Bill Ayers' To Teach: A Journey, In Comics. Bill Ayers was the guest speaker as well. He did an awesome job of explaining the information behind the purpose of the book as well as providing excellent insight into problems with racism, classism, politricks and other injustices that are found in education. Bernadine Dohr was also there and she talked with me a bit about her experiences in the 1960s and her views on politics today. I was all ears. It's very interesting to meet with people about their historical and political experiences, especially when those acts took place right here in my hometown of Chicago. I had to take up the opportunity to "Interview" them. I also recorded Bill giving his opinions about the racial disparities and the intersection of mayoral control and finances in CPS, but of course, my camera stopped working. So hopefully, if I can fix it, I will post it.

While there, I also met Gloria Ladson-Billings. She is a very cool down-to-earth woman. I also took it upon myself to invite myself to sit in one of her graduate courses at UWM...she said that is fine with her. I'm geeked! So, I will be making another trip up to Madison. GLB is a very respected scholar in the field of education! I almost wanted to ask her for her autograph. LOL.

So after the book club meeting, I went downtown to visit the Capitol and join in the "peaceful" protests. It was pretty peaceful for the most part. There were a lot of republicans and tea-party drinkers who were there as well. They carried placards that had tea bags hanging from them. How cute.

It was said that it was about 70,000 people to come out today! WOW! THere was one girl who was about 8 or 9 who carried a placard that read, "No tea for me." LOL.

I also recorded some people giving their opinions about the events that are taking place. I'm going to put everything in a short film and I will share with everyone. In the meantime, I have some pictures that are available for viewing.

What an exciting day!!