On August 22, a group of young men from community organizations across Milwaukee gathered at the Marcia P. Coggs Health and Human Services Center to explore what it means to build a career in law—and how advocacy can drive meaningful change.
The event, hosted by the Milwaukee County Office of Equity and INPOWER, brought together attorneys, advocates, and community leaders who use their professions to strengthen justice and opportunity in their neighborhoods.
A Conversation on Purpose and Power
Among the featured speakers was Attorney William Sulton, founder of Sulton Law, who spoke about using the legal system as a tool for positive change. Sulton shared how his early desire to improve his community led him to pursue law, and how, today, he uses litigation to hold powerful entities financially accountable when they violate people’s rights.
“Every case is an opportunity to make a difference,” Sulton told attendees. “Law isn’t just about rules—it’s about responsibility and impact.”
Turning Experience into Advocacy
Other panelists shared personal journeys that reflected resilience and reform.
- David Carlson, founder and co-owner of C.C. We Adapt, recounted his struggle to pass the bar exam while living with the stigma of a criminal record. His story underscored the importance of perseverance and self-belief.
- Nickolas X. Doherty, an advocate focused on privacy and technology, discussed his work challenging the use of surveillance tools—such as facial recognition systems—that threaten civil liberties in Milwaukee.
Each speaker offered a different perspective on what it means to use one’s voice and platform to protect others, especially within communities often overlooked or underestimated.
Empowering Future Advocates
The event wasn’t just about information—it was about inspiration. Through candid dialogue, the young men in attendance saw how law and advocacy intersect to build stronger, fairer communities. By sharing their stories, the speakers helped attendees envision themselves not just as participants in their neighborhoods, but as future changemakers.
As Attorney Sulton reminded them, “Advocacy isn’t something you wait to do—it’s something you start where you are, with what you have.”
About Sulton Law
Sulton Law is a Milwaukee-based civil rights and employment law firm committed to justice, accountability, and equity. The firm represents individuals and organizations seeking to challenge discrimination, protect workers’ rights, and ensure fair treatment under the law.
