Rep. Gwen Moore Highlights Impact of Disinvestment and Systemic Issues in Milwaukee's Sherman Park
U.S. Representative Gwen Moore has spoken out about the historical disinvestment and systemic challenges that contributed to the 2016 unrest in Milwaukee's Sherman Park neighborhood. The disturbances followed the fatal shooting of Sylville Smith by a Milwaukee police officer. Moore, who has served as a Congresswoman since 2005 and is a member of the Ways and Means Committee, emphasized that the community's grievances stemmed not only from public safety concerns but also from years of neglect and structural inequalities. These issues, she noted, affect various aspects of life, including maternal health, incarceration rates, poverty, and unemployment. Following the unrest, government leaders, community members, and philanthropists initiated investments to address these deep-seated problems. While these efforts have led to some changes, the direct benefit to Sherman Park residents remains unclear, according to the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.