Justice In Motion: A Major Step Forward on Commutations in Wisconsin -- WISDOM
Justice In Motion: A Major Step Forward on Commutations in Wisconsin
- Mon, Apr 6 2026 at 6:34 PM
Hello Mark M,
Wisconsin’s sentencing policies have long conflicted with common-sense approaches to justice, falling short of our shared values of compassion, redemption, and fairness. For years, members of WISDOM’s Commutations Committee, along with leaders across the state, have been organizing tirelessly to reform these harmful policies.
Last Friday, Governor Evers’ decision to restore the commutations process offers renewed hope and recognizes the potential for redemption among individuals who have demonstrated meaningful personal growth. While this is an important first step, there is still much work ahead.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who has contributed to WISDOM’s Commutations Campaign. These recent executive orders represent meaningful progress and an important step forward. We especially want to recognize Beverly Walker and the dedicated members of WISDOM’s Commutations Committee for their years of leadership on this issue. Committee members include Sherry Reames, Joyce Ellwanger, Harlan Richards, Amanda Johnson, Andy Tisdel, and Tanya McMahon.
To learn more, please see Governor Evers’ announcement and coverage from the Wisconsin Examiner.
“Governor Evers has demonstrated his commitment to advancing justice by taking the initial steps to restore commutations in Wisconsin,” said WISDOM Commutations Committee Chair Beverly Walker. “He signed executive orders reestablishing the state’s commutation process and creating a Commutation Advisory Board to guide that work. In doing so, Governor Evers became the first Wisconsin governor in more than 20 years to issue commutations, marking a significant and long-awaited shift forward in the state’s approach to justice and fair chances.”
Excessive and disproportionate sentencing has contributed to severe overcrowding and unsafe conditions in Wisconsin’s prisons. These policies have had a particularly harmful impact on Black, Brown, Indigenous, and low-income communities. Over reliance on incarceration has destabilized communities, separated families, and diverted resources away from building stronger, healthier futures.
WISDOM will continue to monitor the implementation of the commutations process and advocate for a more inclusive and accessible system. With sustained commitment from Governor Evers and future leaders, Wisconsin has an opportunity to begin repairing the harm caused by decades of over-incarceration and to expand pathways for fair chances.
To get involved, join the Old Law and Compassionate Release Task Force meeting, on Saturday, April 11, from 8:30–9:30 AM via Zoom. This task force has been at the forefront of organizing around advancing commutations for years and offers a meaningful opportunity to get involved. For more information, contact Transformational Justice Campaign Coordinator Mark Rice at ricermark@gmail.com.
In gratitude and solidarity,
WISDOM's Commutations Committee
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