Kids Forward is a statewide antiracist policy center that inspires action and advocates for children and families of color and those furthest from opportunity in Wisconsin. We envision a Wisconsin where every child thrives.
Updates
Event: Candidate Forum for Wisconsin Governor
Getting Real on Affordability in WisconsinMonday, July 206–7:30 pmCenter for Black Excellence, 671 W Badger Rd, Madison Virtual will be option available. Register Here Wisconsin families are working hard, but too many of us still struggle to afford the basics — from...
WEBINAR: Reimagining an Affordable Wisconsin
Learn how we can stop wealth from flowing to the top and invest in what families need. Tuesday, June 301–2 pm CT Register Here Every family deserves a fair shot, no matter their race, background, or zip code. But, too many of us struggle to afford the basic...
Wisconsin’s Affordability Crisis & Racial Inequities Hurt Kids & Families
June 8, 2026 Contact: Emily Miota, 262-853-6863, [email protected] New Rankings and Data Tell the Story of Which Wisconsin Kids are Too Far from Opportunity Madison, WI — The affordability crisis isn’t the only thing holding Wisconsin families back; racial...
Calling all Artists: Reimagining Wisconsin Through Art
For more than 140 years, Kids Forward has been fighting for a Wisconsin where every child and family has an opportunity to thrive, especially children and families of color. We believe building a better future takes more than policy. Through Reimagine Wisconsin—our...
From La Crosse to Langlade, Families Need Lasting Affordability–Not Gimmicks
Kids Forward strongly opposes the spending package proposed by Governor Evers and Republican legislative leadership. It relies on one-time money to paper over long-term challenges, all while legislators preparing to leave office pass the responsibility—and the...
How Federal Decisions Impact Immigrant Communities in Wisconsin
“Hasta la Raíz” song by Natalia Lafourcade & Leonel Garcia; check out our full curated playlist here – handpicked jams to keep the joy flowing! Natalia Lafourcade’s “Hasta la Raíz” captures a truth that resonates deeply with immigrant communities: no matter how...
Beyond Borders
A Series on the Diversity of Immigrants and Refugees in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has been shaped by successive waves of newcomers seeking refuge, opportunity, and a place to call home. Our immigration and refugee series explores the significance and diversity of the immigrant narrative in shaping the past, present, and future of Wisconsin.
Publications
Wisconsin’s Surplus Deal Didn’t Pass the Test
We applaud the legislators who put Wisconsin families over politics Last week the Governor’s problematic surplus deal was blocked in the Senate. This deal represents more than just a partisan disagreement about schools and taxes. At its core, this disagreement demands...
From La Crosse to Langlade, Families Need Lasting Affordability–Not Gimmicks
Kids Forward strongly opposes the spending package proposed by Governor Evers and Republican legislative leadership. It relies on one-time money to paper over long-term challenges, all while legislators preparing to leave office pass the responsibility—and the...
This May Day, Kids Forward Stands in Solidarity with Immigrants
May Day reminds us that change has always come from collective action. Immigrants strengthen Wisconsin through their leadership, resilience, and commitment to building a future for the next generation. Kids Forward stands in solidarity with immigrant workers and...
Race to Equity 10-Year Report: Dane County
The Race to Equity 10-Year Report unpacks how race, class, and, in some cases, gender impact Black Dane County residents.
Stories
Engaging Parents & Caregivers in Policy Making
A lack of affordable childcare is keeping many parents at home to care for their children, contributing to a worker shortage in our state. It’s also holding women back professionally–especially women of color. And, the number of family childcare centers has decreased...
“They Call Me Nana”
Ruby Grisby, Milwaukee (WI) My name is Ruby Grisby. I started out as a daycare worker and have now been an owner for 47 years. My husband and I opened our first daycare center in 1993. Most of the children we care for at Grisby’s Child Development Center live within...
“Child Care Makes Our Communities Stronger”
Elizabeth Tomev, Wisconsin Before I had children, the importance of daycare didn’t weigh heavily on my mind. I didn’t realize how stressful it would be to try to find the right child care. I never knew how costly it would be. My children are eight and five. Child care...
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