Black Nite monument vandalized in Milwaukee

Today, on the 65th anniversary of the Black Nite Brawl -- the first LGBTQ uprising in Wisconsin history, eight years before Stonewall -- we have some regrettable news to share.

The Black Nite Monument, dedicated on August 5, 2024 as Wisconsin's first LGBTQ-centered State Historic Marker, was recently vandalized in a random act of violence. The marker was the first, out of over 600 statewide, to specifically celebrate a significant LGBTQ historical moment.

On Friday, July 17, the sign was found at the monument site (400 N. Plankinton Ave.) separated from its mast and lying on the ground nearby. We are thankful to the City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works, who rescued the fallen sign for safe-keeping and storage. Upon further investigation, security camera footage confirmed that an unknown individual hit the sign with an object on Thursday, July 16 around 7:30 p.m. With one single strike, the individual caused the sign base to crack, separate from its mast, and fall to the ground.

The individual fled the scene without making any attempt to lift, steal, or further damage the sign. While the incident was reported to the Milwaukee Police Department, no culprits have been identified nor has anyone taken claim for the vandalism.

Note: Wisconsin State Statutes 943.01, which governs public vandalism and property damages, carry Class A misdemeanor penalties, including a maximum fine of $10,000, up to 9 months in jail, and full restitution for all damages caused, but can be escalated based to a Class I felony (up to 3.5 years in jail) upon judicial review of criminal intent.

At this time, there is no evidence that these random actions were based in homophobic or transphobic violence.

"Over the past two years, the Black Nite Monument has become a spiritual destination for LGBTQ visitors from all over the country," said Michail Takach, president and chair of the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project. "As a tribute to our elders, and as a testament to a lost historical neighborhood, the monument is a reminder that we have always been here, and that our stories always find a way to be seen."

"The Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project, as the non-profit steward of this landmark, is committed to restoring the monument to its rightful home. In the words of Josie Carter, the woman who ignited the spirit of her community, 'we do not run from a fight. We do not run from anything."

Partnering with Wisconsin Historical Society and Sewah Studios, the History Project has initiated the replacement process, which will take up to six months at the cost of $2,500. 

The History Project is now accepting tax-deductible donations to offset this unexpected expense.

The Black Nite Monument is the first in a series of statewide LGBTQ landmarks planned by the History Project, eventually to include This Is It, The M&M Club, The Pit (Wausau,) and additional pending locations. All landmarks have been funded in advance by private donations, with no government funding or taxpayer dollars.

"This marker is more than just signage," said Takach. "It is one of only three known historic markers in the nation to honor a Black woman of transgender experience for their lifetime contributions. It is a counterpoint to the false narrative that transgender identity is a 'modern invention.' It is a connection to a history and heritage not taught in Wisconsin schools. It is a point of pride that Milwaukee has long been a welcoming place, where anyone and everyone can find their people and their passion."

"This landmark belongs not to us, but to the entire community."

We thank our partners, including the Wisconsin Historical Society, Sewah Studios, Milwaukee Police Department, Hunzinger Construction, Pritzlaff Building, Fromm Family Foods, Milwaukee Public Market, Milwaukee Downtown BID #21, Historic Third Ward Association, Walker's Point Neighborhood Association, and the Pomeroy Foundation for their relentless support of the Black Nite Uprising Monument. Special thanks to Mark MacRae and the City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works for their above-and-beyond public service to our organization.

"In today’s climate, unity is more important than ever," said Ricardo W. Harris, vice-president of the History Project.

"As we continue to navigate what moving forward looks like, we must remain united, supporting one another every step of the way. Together, we will continue to stand beside each other, remembering that our shared mission is to preserve history and ensure its legacy for generations to come."

Questions? Contact us