Rachel Friedman is a 44 year-old social worker who supports people with cognitive, psychiatric and physical disabilities.  Both her grandfathers were active union members.  One was a union plumber in Cleveland, Ohio and his house was firebombed in 1938 during a series of attacks on union member households. Rachel has been an an activist for social justice since coming to Madison in 1985.  She felt compelled to protest based on what her grandparents fought for and for her clients. Many of whom are not able to understand the devastating effects the budget cuts will have on their lives.    Rachel’s personal and professional passion is, “speaking out for those who can’t.”  Her partner, Mitch ,and his ten-year old daughter Sydney, are her daily inspiration to “do the next right thing”.   Rachel took Sydney with her to Capitol on many occasions, using events as living lessons in history, politics and civil rights.