Today we want to introduce you to Chris Ahmuty, one of four Champions we’ll honor at our annual event, Champions for Change, at 6pm on February 7. Chris recently retired from the ACLU of Wisconsin after spending more than 30 years fighting tooth and nail for the civil liberties of all Wisconsinites and, by extension, all Americans.
When we asked Kristin Hansen, the Development Director at ACLU of Wisconsin, why she thought Chris was a Champion for Change, she said “I don’t think anyone has done more for civil liberties in Wisconsin than Chris Ahmuty. He would object to that, but name one! I can’t.” 
That’s extremely high praise, and so well deserved. Chris has worked tirelessly and humbly on issues of voting rights, LGBT rights, marriage equality, racial justice, transit equity, and police accountability throughout his career. He’s seen huge wins during that time, but he never celebrated them as wins for himself – they were always about the people of this state. When it comes down to it, that’s what Chris is all about – people, and the advancement of civil liberties for every one of us. 
When asked what it takes to be a Champion for Change like Chris, Kristin had some great advice. “We need to not be silent. Everyone has a voice – use it. Whether that’s writing a letter to the editor, joining an organization, or running for office, there’s a huge gamut of things you can do to make the change you want to see.”
That’s what Chris has done for over 30 years. We need more folks like him. That might sound daunting, but the great news is you can start today.
Champions for Change will be held at The Point, 906 S. Barclay St., from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 7. Single tickets are $35, and there are great sponsorship opportunities available. Please check out the event page or email Jorna Taylor at jornat@communitysharesmke.org for more info.
This press release is from Community Shares of Greater Milwaukee.
