Milwaukee Independent

Milwaukee leaders denounce arrest of Judge Hannah Dugan by Milwaukee Independent

This episode includes an exploration of how a high-energy K-pop song about jazz unexpectedly became a viral anti-Trump anthem. We break down the linguistic misunderstanding that fueled the controversy, the Internet frenzy that turned “American Trumpet” into a political statement, and how the boy band M1VRO is navigating the fallout. From social media memes to right-wing backlash, we dive into the wild journey of a misheard lyric that transformed into an accidental protest movement.

This episode delves into the collapse of American democracy and the widespread complacency enabling it. As Donald Trump's second term cements an authoritarian reality, many Americans cling to outdated tactics and misplaced faith in broken institutions. Based on the Mitchell A. Sobieski editorial, "Bringing rocks to a gunfight: Why Americans remain passive while Trump solidifies authoritarian power," this episode explores how traditional democratic defenses have failed against a well-organized autocratic movement, fueled by disinformation, corporate complicity, and White Nationalist resurgence. It also challenges listeners to confront the gravity of the threat, and their own role in meeting it with urgency or surrendering to it in silence.

2025 State of Milwaukee County Address by Milwaukee Independent

The song "Milwaukee Stands with Ukraine" was produced by Wisconsin Ukrainians Inc. for the "Third Annual Rally for Ukraine" and in commemoration of that somber milestone. "Мілуокі разом з Україною" Рідна земля у вогні і в сльозах, Вітер несе тільки смуток і жах. Я прокидаюсь — і тиша навкруг, Та чути підтримку далеких рук. Мілуокі, я чую, я серцем відчую, Як свічі палають в нічну непогоду. Коли ви зі мною, коли кличете знов, Я силу знаходжу, щоб йти крізь любов. Хтось стукає тихо, мов шепіт весни, «Ми поруч із вами, ви там не одні». Це має вагу у розбитім житті, Ваш голос — як промінь у чорній пітьмі. Мілуокі, я чую, я серцем відчую, Як свічі палають в нічну непогоду. Коли ви зі мною, коли кличете знов, Я силу знаходжу, щоб йти крізь любов. Вони, наче тіні, несуть тільки біль, Палають домівки, тремтить кожен стіл. Та ми не здамося, ми — сталь і вогонь, Бо правда веде нас у темну імлу. Мілуокі, я чую, я серцем відчую, Як свічі палають в нічну непогоду. Через моря ваша ласка летить, І силу дарує, щоб далі нам жить. "Milwaukee Stands with Ukraine" Torn is my homeland, the earth cries in pain, The winds carry whispers of sorrow again. I wake to the silence of those who are gone, But your voices remind me that I must go on. Milwaukee, I hear you, your kindness, your light, Like candles that glow through the depth of the night. When you stand by my side, when you call out my name, I gather my strength and rise once again. A knock at my door, a hand on my sleeve, A voice saying softly, “We stand, we believe.” This matters, I know, in a world torn apart, Your love is a shield wrapped around my heart. Milwaukee, I hear you, your kindness, your light, Like candles that glow through the depth of the night. When you stand by my side, when you call out my name, I gather my strength and rise once again. They come like shadows, with fire and chains, They shatter our homes, they poison our names. But we are still standing, we'll never fall, With truth as our sword, we answer the call. Milwaukee, I hear you, your kindness, your light, Like candles that glow through the depth of the night. Across the great waters, your love reaches through, And I find my courage because of you.

This episode delves into the transformative and turbulent era of Prohibition, as explored in the article “Unintended Consequences: A Tale for Today About Morality, Politics, and Law from the Prohibition Era.” The podcast examines the sweeping reforms of the 1920s that aimed to legislate morality through the prohibition of alcohol, the cultural and political divides it revealed, and the lasting lessons it holds for modern governance.

This episode includes a thought-provoking exploration of the precarious state of American democracy, inspired by the editorial “Once upon a Tuesday: A political parable about running with scissors in America.” We delve into the metaphorical and real dangers of political recklessness, examining how divisive rhetoric and short-sighted decisions threaten the nation's stability.

This episode includes an exploration of the idea that progress is not always linear, inspired by the article “Undoing superstition of chronology: Simone Weil's words remind us that progress is not always linear.” We delve into Simone Weil's profound reflections on history, progress, and the human condition, challenging the assumption that time inevitably brings improvement.

This episode includes a reflection on resilience and unity as Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield delivers a message of hope on the 12th anniversary of the Sikh Temple shooting in Oak Creek. Inspired by the story “Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield shares message of hope on 12th anniversary of Sikh Temple shooting,” we delve into the impact of this tragedy on the community, the lessons learned from confronting hate, and the importance of fostering compassion and understanding.

This episode includes an exploration of the growing international cooperation between Milwaukee and its sister city, Kragujevac, Serbia. Inspired by “Serbia's Kragujevac sees new chapter of international cooperation with Milwaukee as a Sister City,” we delve into the cultural and diplomatic connections that continue to strengthen this partnership. This episode highlights recent developments in the relationship, the shared initiatives fostering mutual understanding, and the significance of sister city programs in promoting global collaboration and community ties.

This episode includes an intimate look at the resilience of Milwaukee's Ukrainian community, inspired by Halyna Zdyrko-Salapata's story “The sacrifices that come with supporting Ukraine while raising a family in Milwaukee.” We explore the personal and collective challenges faced by individuals balancing advocacy for their homeland with the demands of family life in a new country.

This episode includes a celebration of resilience and achievement as we highlight the 2024 graduating class of the Hmong American Peace Academy (HAPA), marking the school's 20th anniversary. Inspired by “From COVID to College: Class of 2024 graduates Hmong American Peace Academy on school's 20th Anniversary,” we explore the unique journey of students who navigated their education through the challenges of the pandemic.

This episode includes a heartfelt reflection on the essential nature of social connectedness, inspired by Luke Waldo's column “A reunion in Spain with lifelong friends shows the essential nature of social connectedness.” We explore how meaningful relationships and shared experiences enrich our lives, with insights drawn from a personal journey of reconnection.

This episode includes an exploration of the next phase in the historic restoration of Milwaukee's Soldiers Home, focusing on efforts to save the Theater, Chapel, and Ward Memorial Hall. Drawing from the story “Historic Restoration: A first glimpse of next phase to save Theater, Chapel, and Mansion at Soldiers Home,” we delve into the intricate work being done to preserve these architectural treasures.

This episode includes a look into the unique initiative at Milwaukee's Forest Home Cemetery, where an arboretum and apiary are being used to connect history, ecology, and community engagement. Inspired by the story “Silent City Honey: The sweet story of utilizing Forest Home Cemetery's Arboretum as an Apiary,” this podcast explores how the cemetery's historic grounds are being transformed into a space that supports urban beekeeping, preserves natural beauty, and fosters education.

This episode includes an analysis of Milwaukee County's budget and its implications for the community. Drawing from County Executive David Crowley's and Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson's statements, we explore the delicate balance between addressing long-standing fiscal challenges and investing in essential services like affordable housing, transit, and parks.

This episode includes a discussion on Milwaukee County's innovative approach to breaking the cycle of homelessness and incarceration, inspired by its selection for the Just Home Project. We explore how housing instability exacerbates recidivism and the barriers formerly incarcerated individuals face in securing stable housing.

This episode includes an exploration of Milwaukee County's groundbreaking initiative to provide whole blood transfusions in the field for critically injured trauma patients. We discuss the life-saving potential of this innovation, which addresses the critical minutes following severe injuries, and how it reflects Milwaukee County's legacy of advancing emergency medical care.

This episode includes an in-depth discussion inspired by Reggie Jackson's column, "History teaches us that ignoring the elephant in the room will not make it go away." It explores historical parallels and examines how societies, from pre-WWII Europe to modern America, have consistently ignored uncomfortable truths, leading to devastating consequences.

This episode includes an exploration of themes drawn from the insightful series by Edward Morgan on Azerbaijan and the pressing global environmental challenges of our time. Inspired by the interconnected narratives of "Exploring Baku's history and modern challenges through a unique summer camp experience," "Creating connections to foster cultural exchanges for young minds in Azerbaijan," and "COP29 in Baku: A high-stakes climate summit begins amid controversies and conflicting agendas," this podcast delves into the fusion of history, culture, and climate diplomacy.

This episode includes a look into the rich tapestry of Korean history, culture, and its local connections in Milwaukee, inspired by the 72-part series “Exploring Korea's Stories.” From the enduring traditions of Korean society to the historical events that have left a global imprint, this episode examines the intricate dynamics of identity linking residents of South Korea with Milwaukee's diaspora.

This episode includes a look at the critical restoration efforts needed to save one of Milwaukee's iconic landmarks, the historic Pabst Mansion. As highlighted in the piece “Milwaukee's Mansion: Critical Restoration Needed to Save Landmark Pabst Home from Deterioration,” this podcast explores the rich history of the mansion, its cultural significance to the city, and the urgent challenges posed by years of wear and neglect.

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

This episode includes a heartfelt exploration of the “Music Tour of Gratitude to America,” featuring a special concert in Milwaukee by frontline Ukrainian soldiers from the Cultural Forces of Ukraine. We discuss how these “soldier artists” blend traditional music, cultural pride, and messages of gratitude to honor U.S. support during Ukraine's ongoing fight for freedom. Hear about their extraordinary performances, including the sounds of the bandura and violin, their experiences in the trenches, and how music provides relief and connection amid the chaos of war.

https://linktr.ee/support_culturalforces Milwaukee Concert 2024 Mykolai Sierga, Taras Stoliar, Olha Rukavishnikova, Yurii Ivaskevych, Mykhailo Oliynyk

RNC 2024 Security Briefing in Milwaukee by Milwaukee Independent

Pride Flag 2024 by Milwaukee Independent

David Crowley Oath of Office: Second Term as Milwaukee County Executive by Milwaukee Independent

The Hop "L-Line" Ribbon Cutting by Milwaukee Independent

Inauguration 2024: Mayor Cavalier Johnson by Milwaukee Independent

This episode includes an analysis of the aftermath and ongoing challenges of Fukushima, Japan, inspired by "Exploring Fukushima" series. This podcast delves into the lingering effects of the 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster, along with the resilience of the affected communities, the environmental and societal lessons that continue to emerge, and those connections to Milwaukee.

Press Conference AWI's network gear donation to Irpin by Milwaukee Independent

Press conference for gun-related domestic violence at City Hall by Milwaukee Independent