Clementina Castro: A Champion for Families and Social Justice in Milwaukee
Original Author
Angelina Velazquez
Release Date
8/15/2024
Clementina Castro was a dedicated advocate for social justice and a key figure in Milwaukee’s Welfare Rights Movement during the 1960s and 1970s. Her life’s work centered around improving the lives of low-income families, particularly women and children. A close collaborator of civil rights leader Father James Groppi, Clementina fought tirelessly for economic justice, better living conditions, and access to essential services for Milwaukee’s most marginalized communities.
A Visionary Leader in the Fight for Equality
Clementina’s activism was deeply rooted in her own experiences and the needs of her community. As a leading voice in the Welfare Rights Movement, she was known for her unwavering dedication to advocating for women’s rights, recognizing the unique challenges faced by single mothers and low-income families. She often led marches and protests, standing side by side with Father Groppi and other activists, passionately calling for change. Her son, Tomas, fondly recalls moments from his childhood, such as the time they marched to the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, singing “We Shall Overcome.” As they marched, Clementina’s voice rose above the crowd, shouting, “¡Que Viva La Causa!”—a rallying cry that embodied her spirit and determination. This was not just a slogan but a declaration of her life’s mission: to uplift and empower those most in need.
The Founding of La Causa Daycare
In 1972, Clementina founded La Causa Daycare with a vision to provide quality, bilingual childcare for the children of Milwaukee’s working mothers, especially those involved in the Welfare Rights Movement. She understood that access to safe, nurturing childcare was essential for women striving to improve their families’ economic situations through work or education. La Causa Daycare was one of the first centers in Milwaukee to offer such support, ensuring children could learn and grow in a caring environment while their mothers worked towards a better future. Clementina’s dedication to this cause was a reflection of her belief in the power of education and community support as tools for social change.
First La Causa Daycare (1972)
A Heartfelt Departure and an Enduring Legacy
Despite her deep commitment to La Causa, Clementina’s journey with the daycare center was cut short when she had to step away to care for her daughter, Maria, who had become seriously ill. Her departure was a loss for the organization, but the strong foundation she had laid ensured that her vision continued to thrive. La Causa grew beyond its beginnings, evolving into a comprehensive social service agency that continues to serve thousands of families today. The values Clementina instilled in La Causa—compassion, empowerment, and community support—remain at the heart of its mission.
Keeping the Spirit of ‘La Causa’ Alive
Clementina Castro’s legacy is one of strength, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. Her impact on Milwaukee’s community is felt to this day, not only in the services that La Causa provides but in the spirit of activism and support that she championed. As her son Tomas reflects, the very name “La Causa” comes from the heart and passion she brought to every march, every protest, and every act of service. Today, programs like the Crisis Nursery & Respite Center continue to carry forward her mission, providing critical support to families in their most challenging moments, just as Clementina envisioned.
Her cry of “¡Que Viva La Causa!” still resonates, reminding us of her belief in a cause greater than herself—a belief that we honor by continuing her work and keeping her spirit alive in every family we support and every community we strengthen.
