Year In Review 2017: Heroes living the change they wish to see

These featured profiles cover some of the remarkable people in the community, who gave voice to their experiences, perspectives, and have life lessons.

The depth of the Milwaukee Independent’s interview format allowed for the exploration of deep personal issues, and a platform of discussion for how we are all connected as a community. Each profile is a different flavor of our common humanity, and the inspirational stories that serve as an example for us all.

Margaret Butler

All That Glitters Is GGOOLLDD

Jacqueline Olive

Filmmaking When Racial Tеrrоrism Is Always In Season

George Banda

The Humble Hero

“What does a hero feel like? I was just dong my job, it was what I was trained to do. That’s what I did, and I was lucky enough to survive. So I feel uncomfortable and a little embarrassed to be called a hero.”

– George Banda

Jerrianne Hayslett

How The News Industry Influences Justice

Alexis Twito

Giving Comfort In Times Of Trauma

Denisha Tate

Standing Apart To Stand For What Is Right

“Being a chaplain has taught me that people we have never met can impact our life in ways we never thought or imagined.”

– Alexis Twito

Janine Sijan Rozina

A Story Not Of War But The Spirit Of Love

Doug Johnson

Family Is About Love And Not Skin Color

Chris Abele

Newsmakers Interview With The Milwaukee County Executive

“Very often Lance’s story is referred to as a story of war. But this is a story of love. This is a story about a man who loved his family, his God, his nation, and his comrades. I have a tough time with individuals who only want the war story. We don’t need anymore more of those stories. If that is still the only way we know how to resolve conflict, it’s a sad state to be in. Lance’s story is so unique, about what he did in those last three months of his life when he was alone. I believe he was driven by love.”

– Janine Sijan Rozina