It's the People's Money
Paying taxes is how we build a strong foundation where everyone—from Menomonie to Milwaukee—can thrive. But, for decades the wealthy few have rigged our tax code so they pay less than their fair share. Then, they work to pit our families against each other based on our zip code, so they can hoard the wealth our work creates. As a result of these intentional policy choices and unjust structure, Wisconsin’s racial and economic disparities are some of the worst in the country.
Previously known as the Wisconsin Budget Project, we’re working to ensure every family has the opportunity to thrive, especially those most impacted by disinvestment, and not just the powerful few.
Reclaim. Rebuild.
Reimagine.
Join us to unrig the rules that benefit the wealthy few. View our full policy agenda.
Analyzing the State Budget
At Kids Forward, we know that a budget is more than just numbers; it’s a statement of values. It shows who and what Wisconsin cares about. The Wisconsin state budget—negotiated every other year in odd years—is how we invest in the public infrastructure and supports that our families and communities need. Too often, powerful, wealthy individuals and corporations influence our legislators to cut taxes instead of funding public schools, child care, and making health care more affordable. As a result, every day families struggle to make ends meet, services are harder to access, and the richest few continue to reap the benefits.
We dig through the state budget to provide community partners and advocates with the resources and tools they need to ensure the results of people’s hard work make it back to their communities. View our analyses and resources further below.
Fighting for an Equitable Tax and Revenue System
Families across Wisconsin are struggling to get by, and it shouldn’t be a surprise. Economic inequality has exploded over the past 40 years. In the last four decades, the wealthiest 20% of Wisconsinites have seen dramatic growth in their incomes, while everyone else has seen no increase or watched their income decline.
Kids Forward advocates for a fair and equitable tax system that benefits all. If the most wealthy few paid their fair share, Wisconsin could invest in critical services such as child care, health care, and a fair wage for all workers. We provide decision makers and community partners with the tools they need to advocate for a fairer tax system.
Research & Publications
Proposed Tax Cut Privileges Wealthiest 1%, Leaves Struggling Families Behind
Wisconsin can be a place where we all—regardless of race or place—have what we need to make ends meet. However, last week the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee voted for a tax cut that would aid in gutting supports for families. Letting Wisconsin’s wealthiest off the hook from paying what they owe means many struggling families are left behind, particularly children and families of color and those furthest from opportunity. We are calling on Governor Evers to stand up for everyday families and veto this tax cut for the wealthy few.
Youth Justice: Providing Wisconsin Children and Families with a Clear Path to a New Model
2023-25 State BudgetMarch 9, 2023 Systemic racism and ongoing forms of injustice play a crucial role in youth of color being over-represented at all points of contact within the criminal legal system — from policing to courts to incarceration. The interplay of the...
Taxes: Cuts for Working Families & Ensuring the Wealthiest Wisconsinites Pay What They Owe
2023-25 State Budget: TaxesMarch 8, 2023 Taxes are a critical way of providing the resources, infrastructure, and services that increase quality of life for all Wisconsinites. They also play an important role in expanding opportunity and enhancing racial equity....
Response to Governor Evers’ Budget Proposal
For Release: February 16, 2023Contact: Emily Miota, emiota@kidsforward.org At Kids Forward, we believe every child and family, notably children and families of color and those furthest from opportunity, deserve to thrive. For too long, some politicians have rigged...
Standing up for Racial Justice: A Starter Guide on Policy & Advocacy in Wisconsin
COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted BIPOC communities. As people of color risked their lives working on the frontlines of the pandemic, they were less likely to receive some of the financial support passed by congress. This public health crisis raised awareness...
From birth, Dr. King’s dream remains illusory for too many Black people in our state.
Read the below opinion in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (1/16/2023) here.By Michele Mackey, CEO & Executive Director For decades, Wisconsin has received national attention as both a harbinger of public opinion and a key battleground state. Regrettably, Wisconsin...
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