Mahlon Mitchell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mahlon Mitchell
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| President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin | |
| Assumed office January 12, 2011 |
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| Preceded by | Michael Woodzicka |
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| Born | February 24, 1977 Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | April Mitchell |
| Education | Mount Senario College (BA) |
Mahlon Mitchell was born on February 24, 1977. He is an American firefighter and currently leads the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin. He became president of this group on January 12, 2011. He was the youngest person and the first African American to hold this important job.
Besides leading the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin, Mitchell is also the president of the "Sable Flames." This is a group for African American firefighters in the City of Madison Fire Department. In 2018, he ran for Governor of Wisconsin but did not win the primary election.
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Early Life and Firefighting Career
Mahlon Mitchell was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He grew up in a town called Delavan, Wisconsin. Before becoming a firefighter, he worked as a street outreach coordinator. This job involved connecting young people who were facing challenges with helpful community services. He also worked as a real estate agent for six years in the Madison area.
Mitchell served as a firefighter in Madison, Wisconsin for more than fifteen years. He loved helping people and keeping his community safe. He also spent five years directing a special summer camp called the Wisconsin Alliance for Fire Safety's Burn Camp. This camp helped young people who had been injured by burns. It taught them how to deal with their unique situations and build a strong support network. In 2010, Mitchell was promoted to lieutenant in the Madison Fire Department.
Helping Firefighters and Their Families
Mahlon Mitchell worked hard to pass two important laws that helped firefighters across Wisconsin.
- One law was the Infectious Disease Presumption Law. This law makes sure that firefighters are covered if they get sick or injured because of their job.
- The other law helps families of firefighters who die while on duty. It makes sure their health insurance premiums are paid.
Mitchell became well-known when he spoke out against changes made by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker. These changes affected how workers could bargain for their rights. Mitchell's strong opinions led to many demonstrations in Madison in 2011.
Running for Public Office
In late 2011, people online started suggesting that Mahlon Mitchell should run for Governor of Wisconsin. This was during a time when there was a chance for a special election to remove the current governor. Mitchell said he would think about running.
On March 19, 2012, Mitchell announced he would run for Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin. This was also part of a special election. He won the Democratic primary election, which meant he was chosen to represent his party. However, he was defeated in the main election on June 5, 2012.
In 2013, Mitchell received an honorary degree from the National Labor College Maritime Institute of Graduate Studies. This was a special award recognizing his achievements.
In 2018, Mitchell tried again to become Governor. He sought the Democratic nomination but came in second place to Tony Evers.
Personal Life
Mahlon Mitchell is married and has two children. He lives with his family in Madison, Wisconsin.
Images for kids
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Mahlon Mitchell
