Although she did not send the letter, Pettaway posted a copy on her campaign’s Facebook page.

Upchurch said Monday none of the candidates had responded to his proposal.

In interviews with the Wisconsin State Journal, several of the candidates acknowledged the issues Upchurch raised are important but said they’re still in the race.

“I’m not here to tell those most impacted by racism what they need,” Rhodes-Conway said. “As mayor I will make sure to listen and engage with those most impacted, and to empower community leaders.

“I respect Toriana and this ask, but I still believe I am qualified to address the multitude of problems this city faces starting on my first day in office and I will work hard hand in hand with those most impacted by historical and present racism to build a city that works for them.”

Brita Olsen, Cheeks’ campaign manager, said, “Throughout his campaign for mayor, Mo has been leading the discussion on taking on our city’s persistent reputation as a tale of two cities, where Madison is the best place to live for some yet not everyone. Mo has put forward a robust opportunity agenda for how as mayor he plans to create a more inclusive, innovative, and safe city.”