In America, it is the elections at the top of the political structure that gain the most widespread attention, but what most Americans forget is that it is the elections at the local (municipal, county) and state levels that are most important for building a strong America with progressive democratic traditions.

In a time when our democratic institutions are under the threat of rising fascism, it is imperative that we strengthen our democracy by electing strong progressive leaders at the most local levels, with grassroots support, and build a strong base of power which higher levels of government are built on. And the most fundamental elections of these may very well be school board elections, because not only are they at the very local level, but they influence the way America’s youth are taught. The right-wing has understood this for the past 15 years and has built a streamlined machine to elect first Tea Partiers and now Trumpers to oversee the education of our nation’s youth. It is important that we elect progressive leaders who can ensure that children grow up with open minds, tolerance, celebration of differences, and in an atmosphere without fear and hate.

One such individual is Ali Muldrow (she/her/hers), a millennial bisexual Black woman who just won her seat on the Board of Education in Madison, Wisconsin. Currently working at the Women’s Medical Fund, she was previously the co-Executive Director of GSAFE, an advocacy organization that creates safe schools for LGBTQ+ youth in Wisconsin by developing LGBTQ+ youth leaders; deepening racial, gender, trans, and social justice; and working towards a world free of oppression based on gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, race, and other identities. Ali began her work in education as a spoken word poetry instructor in her former high school. This poet, essayist, and doula is passionate about consent, freedom, learning, human rights, social justice, and uplifting marginalized communities.

Where are you based?
Madison, Wisconsin.

What is your position/what position are you running for?
I am running for reelection to seat four on the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) Board of Education.

How would you briefly summarize your platform?
I am committed to strengthening our public schools by expanding access to high-quality education, addressing racial and economic disparities, and ensuring that every student graduates prepared for their next step—whether that’s college, a trade, or entering the workforce. I believe in prioritizing educator support, student-centered learning, and community-driven decision-making.

What inspired you to run?
Public education is the foundation of a thriving democracy. I was inspired to run because every child deserves an excellent education that meets their needs and helps them reach their full potential. I want to ensure that MMSD remains a district where all students, regardless of background, can succeed.

What change are you hoping to bring to your district and country?
Locally, I want to expand equitable access to high-quality instruction, enhance student support services, and strengthen partnerships between families, educators, and the community. Nationally, strong public schools set the foundation for an engaged and informed citizenry. By advocating for inclusive, well-funded, and student-centered education, we contribute to a stronger, more just society.

What do you consider to be your major accomplishments so far?
I have been a strong advocate for public education and community-driven solutions, supporting initiatives that expand career and technical education, strengthen behavioral supports, and promote literacy and math excellence. My work as the Treasurer of the Board of Educatiion has centered on ensuring our allocations reflect the needs and aspirations of our students and families.

What do you feel are the most important issues right now, why, and how do you plan to tackle them?

Equity in educational opportunities in order to address disparities in literacy, math proficiency, and access to advanced coursework to ensure all students thrive.
Teacher retention and support through institutionalizing competitive wages, professional development, and respect for educator expertise.
Sustainable school funding solutions to avoid repeated reliance on referenda while advocating for state-level reforms.

It is clear that the current administration has no intention to work for all Americans, but only a small, select group. How will you stop the progression of right-wing ideas into our schools and ensure that every student is able to access new ideas and resources freely?
Public schools should be places where students are encouraged to think critically, explore diverse perspectives, and engage with a broad range of ideas. I will advocate for a curriculum that reflects the richness of our communities and resists efforts to censor history, science, and literature. Education should empower students with knowledge, not restrict them.

How do you see your unique identity and background to be an asset to you in office?
My lived experiences have shaped my deep commitment to equity, community engagement, and pragmatic problem-solving. I understand the challenges our students, educators, and families face, and I bring a perspective that values collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and the power of public education to transform lives.

What is your motto in life?
If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.

Where can we find out more about you?
www.alijanaemuldrow.com
Facebook: alimuldrow

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