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Walker Meets With Black Community Leader In Madison Over Robinson Shooting

Gov Promises To Reach Out To Family Of Man Killed By Police

By
Shamane Mills/WPR

Gov. Scott Walker met with a prominent member of Madison’s black community Wednesday following the fatal police shooting of 19-year-old Tony Robinson. They discussed a pending outside investigation and what can be done to prevent future clashes between police and African Americans.

Walker also promised to reach out to the Robinson’s mother and other family members.

Michael Johnson, the CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County, asked Walker for a statewide jobs initiative for African-American men, along with internships for youth.

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“All these great companies, some got 200 to 300 employees and you don’t see one person of color,” Johnson said. “We got to change that and make sure we change the opportunity equation for our kids.”

Johnson said Walker didn’t make any commitment but wants to follow up.

According to Johnson, $20,000 has been raised for Robinson’s funeral. Meanwhile, public rallies continue. Johnson told Governor Walker that other public officials had reached out to the family and Walker said he planned to do the same.

Johnson says Robinson’s mother is not showing the anger others have directed at law enforcement.

“The first night I met her she said, ‘I am not angry at the police. I’m not. We’re not anti-police.’ They have been consistent with that message,” said Johnson.

When asked about students missing class for demonstrations, Johnson said children’s voices need to be heard in the wake of Tony Robinson’s death before or after school, but not during.