Skip to main content

Deep Dive: MILWAUKEE 53206 (2016)

Film Lens

MILWAUKEE 53206
Milwaukee 53206 is a feature documentary directed and produced by Keith McQuirter that examines the impact of mass incarceration on families in the 53206 ZIP Code of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This area has one of the highest incarceration rates for African American men in the United States. The film presents the personal stories of three residents, including Beverly Walker, whose husband has spent over two decades in prison, Chad Wilson, a young man working to rebuild his life after incarceration, and Dennis Walton, who leads community efforts to support families affected by the justice system. The documentary uses these individual narratives to illustrate the wider effects of mass incarceration on communities. It emphasizes the long-term effects on families and the stigma faced by those reentering society. The film also raises awareness about Wisconsin's parole system through the case of Baron Walker, who was denied parole multiple times despite being eligible, ultimately serving over 22 years before his release in 2018.

Why Watch

  • Meet Beverly Walker, a mother of five impacted by incarceration.
  • Follow Chad Wilson's journey after his release from prison.
  • Find out about Dennis Walton's community efforts in 53206.

Did You Know

Baron Walker was sentenced in 1996 to 60 years for armed robberies.
Milwaukee 53206 premiered in 2016 and aired on PBS's America ReFramed.
Dennis Walton is the co-director of Milwaukee's Fatherhood Initiative.
Baron Walker was denied parole seven times before his release in 2018.

Perfect For

Mass incarcerationCriminal justice reformCommunity support initiatives