In this episode of 6.5 Minutes, C21 Graduate Fellow Jamee Pritchard speaks with Dr. Kitonga Alexander, Milwaukee native, educator, community organizer, and Executive Director of the Bronzeville Histories Institute. Dr. Alexander's work centers on preserving Milwaukee's Black cultural heritage and supporting community members returning home after incarceration. He also coordinates the Welcome Home Project, created the Walk of Truth initiative, and teaches history and ethnic studies at UW-Milwaukee and Marquette University. He is a Positively Milwaukee Inspiring Teacher Award recipient.

Dr. Alexander discusses his community-based initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting holistic slow care. After witnessing a disturbing incident at the Wisconsin State Fair, he founded United for Progress and Productivity to address systemic harm and create meaningful pathways for community change.

The Welcome Home Project focuses on high-risk probationers ages 14–24, offering trauma-informed care, employment opportunities, housing support, and life-skills development. Dr. Alexander emphasizes a legacy of productivity, the idea that healing, stability, and community contributions can interrupt cycles of incarceration and build a future grounded in dignity.

Learn more:

• Milwaukee Bronzeville Histories
• Positively Milwaukee: Kitonga Alexander
• UWM student 'brings his full brilliance, heart and soul' to community service
• An Inspiring Teacher Making a Difference
• 'We believe that they can come home and be a positive force for change:' How one program helps people transition out of incarceration