As Madison celebrates its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we must also confront an uncomfortable truth: some of the racial disparities we see today are rooted in public policies of the past.
During the 1960s, Madison’s Urban Renewal Program led to the destruction of the Greenbush neighborhood—one of the city’s most culturally diverse and economically vibrant communities. Greenbush was home to Black, Jewish, Italian, and immigrant families who built strong neighborhoods, small businesses, churches, community centers, and affordable housing. It was a place where people of different backgrounds lived, worked, and thrived together.
Under the banner of “urban renewal,” hundreds of families were displaced, homes and businesses were demolished, and longtime residents were forced to relocate. Many moved to South Madison, which at the time lacked basic infrastructure and public services available in other parts of the city.
Across America, cities have acknowledged the harm caused by similar urban renewal projects through formal apologies and truth-and-reconciliation efforts. Madison has yet to take that important step.
Today, concerns about housing affordability, displacement, and gentrification continue to affect many neighborhoods, particularly communities of color. While we cannot change the past, we can learn from it and work toward a more just future.
That is why we support a City of Madison resolution formally apologizing for the harm caused by urban renewal and to re-establish former City Alder Brian Bedford’s “Truth and Reconciliation process, when this resolution goes for the City Council later this month.
Why? Because former residents, descendants, and So. Madison community members deserve the opportunity to share their experiences and help shape future City of Madison public policies.
As we commemorate Juneteenth and approach America’s 250th anniversary, we encourage residents to contact the Mayor and Common Council and support this effort. Acknowledging history is not about assigning blame—it is about honoring truth, promoting healing, and building a stronger Madison for future generations.
Our history matters. Our voices matter. Our future depends on what we choose to do today.
