History often feels distant, like stories written in dusty books about people and events long gone. However, considering the lens that all history is local, it becomes apparent that we don’t just read or learn about history; we live it, and I’ve witnessed it unfold in my own community and family.

Growing up in Milwaukee, my mother worked as a juvenile probation officer for 18 years. Through her job, I saw the harsh realities of the juvenile justice system. Her young clients often faced violence, were caught up in gang affiliations, or turned to drug dealing because there were no better options. These struggles weren’t abstract social issues—they were the daily lives of kids in my community. Their experiences reflected national conversations about crime and justice, but I saw how those broad issues played out in a deeply personal and local way.

Another example is my involvement with Celtic MKE. While Irish history is a global narrative, I’ve found that local efforts to share Irish culture keep these stories alive. By helping teach children about Irish traditions and volunteering at events, I’ve seen how history isn’t just something to be remembered but lived and passed down locally.

Both experiences have shaped my understanding of history. Whether it’s through justice or cultural heritage, I’ve learned that history is most meaningful when we see it at work in the places we live and the lives we touch. When I reflect on my surroundings, it’s clear that history is not just something that happens far away—it’s something we participate in every day.