I Didn’t Do It Alone,

Vel R. Phillips Memorial, 2026

City of Milwaukee

‘I Didn’t Do It Alone’ honors several pivotal aspects of Phillips’ life of service and her fight for civil liberties while highlighting the core of her lifelong efforts. Throughout her career, Phillips often stated, “I didn’t do it alone,” a reflection of her commitment to collective action.

The memorial features three key components: two stone architectural sections with figurative sculptures, a bronze desk, and a bronze chair. Six outward-facing figures represent citizens, activists, and leaders who worked with Phillips for change. Linked-arm citizens commemorate the unity of the demonstrators during 200 days of open housing protests, and remind us that we, the people, are protectors of liberty, justice, and democracy – the ideals Phillips fought for. 

The memorial’s classic Western architecture nods to historic monuments honoring our ideals and the citizens who work for the public good. The integration of the intimate office with the more traditional architecture highlights the importance of the personal in our politics.

Phillips’ partners-style desk, designed for face-to-face conversations, also reflects Phillips’ eagerness to listen to all. The desk’s empty seat acknowledges Phillips’ absence, but also serves as an invitation to challenge ourselves: What impact can we make? Visitors are encouraged to sit at the desk and engage with the installation. Over time, the natural patina formed by the oils of human touch will become a part of this memorial, just as Phillips felt the people were always a part of her work.  

Photo credit: Kevin Miyazaki