Jeannine Rivers Colburn

Bruce Colburn Closes Chapter at Souls to the Polls; Focuses on Health:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2026
Contact: Jeannine Colburn
[email protected]

Milwaukee, WI — Bruce Colburn, a nationally respected labor leader and community organizer, is stepping back from his work with Souls to the Polls due to health-related reasons, closing a significant chapter in a lifetime of service to Milwaukee and communities across Wisconsin.

Colburn brought decades of organizing experience to Souls to the Polls, centering his work on building trust, fostering relationships, and meeting people where they are. His leadership helped expand voter participation—particularly within marginalized communities—by making civic engagement more accessible and community-driven.

Under his leadership, Souls to the Polls grew from a local effort into an organization with statewide and national recognition. His approach to organizing, grounded in dignity and a deep belief in people, has left a lasting imprint on the movement and those who carry it forward.

“This work has always been about people: listening, connecting, and building together,” said Colburn. “I’m proud of what we’ve built and deeply grateful to the organizers, volunteers, civic leaders, and community members who made it possible.”

As he steps back, Colburn will focus on his health and looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Jeannine Colburn. Together, they will continue their commitment to the community through “Still Here Collective,” a nonprofit dedicated to mental health awareness, su***de prevention, healthcare access, and strengthening community connection.

Supporters, allies, and fellow organizers are encouraged to honor his legacy by continuing the work, engaging communities, building trust, and ensuring every voice is heard.

Bruce Colburn leaves behind not only a record of impact but a standard of leadership rooted in integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

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Memories like the corners of my mind featuring Facebook

She is a demanding little queen.

💛✨
Our beloved Adedapo— Queen of Milwaukee’s Jazz and daughter of Bronzeville’s legacy — needs our love right now.

She’s poured decades of music, mentorship, and magic into this city. She lifted so many of us — myself included — teaching us not just how to tell a story with each song we sing, but how to stand in our purpose.

After suffering a ruptured brain aneurysm and multiple surgeries, she needs her community to lift her in prayer, love, and financial support.

Let’s surround Adekola with the same grace, care, and fierce love she’s always shown others.
Our Queen deserves comfort. She deserves us.

💛 Please donate, share, and pray either way.

Bronzeville’s spirit still lives — and Adekola is its heartbeat.

Donate to Support Queen Mother Adekola's Recovery, organized by Obi Ifatunji Queen Mother Ifadumade Adekola Adedapo has been a guiding light in Milwaukee and … Obi Ifatunji needs your support for Support Queen Mother Adekola's Recovery

AFSA ( American foundation for su***de. Gala
# Hopewalkshere

Let’s help get out the vote!

I get the honor to grace the stage with Shirley King, BB King‘s daughter.

I’m a little bit of jazz and she’s a whole Lotta blues

I had an amazing and inspiring evening with Maya Wiley (MSNBC legal analyst). Generation freedom- we organize for our freedom.

Embrace the season of change by loving on others!

✨ Empower Others with Hope

While many of us are fighting for Democracy and deciding who we will vote for. Many people in our communities are suffering from mental fatigue due to fear and uncertainty. Presidential elections can have a significant impact on mental health,... Giving Others Hope by Sharing Your Story

Let your Music touch someone's soul and mind.

***depreventionmonth