About Us
Our Mission
Bridge the Divide is a grassroots effort that began in a small suburb of Milwaukee. We provide a forum for discussion and action around racial repair, reconstruction, and eventually, reconciliation. We are passionate advocates for treating all humanity with love and respect and hope that through education, proximity, and discussion, we can help foster empathy and decrease fear.
Meet the Hosts
Erica Turner
Co Host
Erica is a nurse by trade and currently works in I.T. Much of her professional life is conducted in white spaces. Erica works to be a person with whom people can easily relate. She believes that her relationship with God should be mirrored in her relationship with others. Erica is honest and passionate, not afraid to ask tough questions or give tough answers. Facilitating conversations as part of Bridge the Divide affords her opportunities to forge relationships in her suburban community and actively diversify their world to effect change. Erica received the 2018 NAACP Ozaukee Branch Game Changer award and 2019 YWCA SEW Eliminating Racism Award.
Heidi Wheeler
Co Host
Heidi is a question asker and change agent, advocating for those whose voices are marginalized. Master's prepared nurse practitioner (University of Colorado), professor, writer, and mother of four, Heidi's deeply held beliefs stretch her to find time for racial healing work despite her other commitments. Heidi enjoys co-hosting Bridge the Divide podcast and writing thought-provoking pieces to challenge people's preconceived ideas. She was the 2019 recipient of the Ozaukee Chapter of Baha'i Spirit of Unity award.
What We Do
Cultivate an On-Air Discussion
We contend that hosting on air conversations gives us an opportunity to develop relationships with our listeners and guests, and engage with our community to create joint, achievable, and long lasting solutions…together.
Host and Participate in Events
BTD is well connected with regional groups working on diversity, race concerns, equity, and more. BTD generates and co-sponsors several events annually—book and school supply drives, concerts, speakers, movies with talk-backs, game nights and more. This past year, Bridge the Divide was a grant recipient and was able to bring many valuable educational events to the community.
Meet Regularly
From September to May, we meet monthly at Cedarburg Public Library, typically on the first Monday of the month. This meeting lasts about two hours and features dynamic speakers and relevant topics. Grab a cup of coffee and a snack and grow in your knowledge—join us anytime!
Join Us
Bridge the Divide would love to have you! No matter your religion, political party, background, age, or race, there’s a place for you to be part of the conversation.
Spoken Word Artist Propaganda
“We need to consider the waters we swim in. Maybe it’s not toxic to me, but it’s toxic to my neighbor….if it’s toxic to my neighbor, it’s probably toxic to me, too. Let’s breathe better water.”