July 25, 1967

"The Youth Council and their supporters filled the Common Council Chambers for a meeting July 25, 1967. Alderman Vel Phillips moved to alter the usual meeting procedure in order to allow Father Groppi to speak on central city issues, particularly the need for open housing. Her motion generated considerable debate with several aldermen who objected to this unusual move to allow someone other than an alderman to speak at a Common Council meeting. Alderman Norman Hundt brought the debate to a close by noting that the Council was spending more time arguing about whether Father Groppi should talk than he'd take talking. "Whether we agree with him or not, I don't think we are too busy to listen to him." Father Groppi argued that due to the critical housing needs in the inner city and the lack of response from public officials, tempers were rising. He warned of the likelihood of rioting in Milwaukee since peaceful means of redressing grievances met with resistance rather than success. South side Alderman Robert Anderson was among those who questioned Groppi. He asked, "Who's behind this? Why doesn't the clergy tell their people to come out for open housing?" Father Groppi replied, "Alderman Anderson, for once we agree on something. But that does not excuse your inactivity."'" (p. 33)

From Margaret Rozga's "March on Milwaukee," Wisconsin Magazine of History, Volume 90, Number 4, Summer 2007, http://content.wisconsinhistory.org/cdm/compoundobject/collection/wmh/id/49374/show/49343/rec/6 , p. 33.

Milwaukee Star, July 29, 1967. Milwaukee Public Library Microfilm Collection, Microfilmed by the Wisconsin Historical Society.

Milwaukee Star,July 29, 1967. Milwaukee Public Library Microfilm Collection, Microfilmed by the Wisconsin Historical Society.