Cat Morgan keeps it fierce as the executive director of Fierce Freedom, a Chippewa Valley nonprofit working to end human trafficking through educational programming. Having grown up in Eau Claire and being a self-proclaimed “Eau Claire lifer,” Cat is passionate about the work she does in the community. Living with her husband near McDonough Park, Cat enjoys getting lost in books and is currently studying for a master’s degree in Advocacy and Political Leadership at Metro State University in St. Paul.

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I grew up (in Eau Claire) and am definitely proud to have seen the city I have always loved continuing to celebrate its cultural roots through art, music, and other creative avenues.

What’s your passion?

Just one thing? If I have to pick, I think education is so important on the issues we’re collectively facing. My work with Fierce Freedom is something really close to my heart because I love this community and want it to be resilient to exploitation and one where people feel safe and know they are loved and valuable. I also really want to steward this beautiful planet well, we are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place and I feel a strong desire to protect and nurture it.

What place in town considers you a “regular”?

There are so many lovely local shops that I enjoy, but I have to say I know and love the management at Raggedy Man so much! They have such a gorgeous variety of unique items and a great card selection. Also, the store’s dog/mascot Kaya is an absolute ANGEL. Seriously, go see for yourself.

What frustrates you about the Chippewa Valley?

Parking downtown has become such a trial.

What's your favorite local festival?

I love Jazz Fest, we’ve always had such a fantastic music scene in the area because of some incredible local talent and Jazz Fest is a great way to showcase that. Also, it’s in the spring when we’ve all been in hibernation and are ready to re-emerge from our cocoons and groove together to some jazzy tunes!

Death bed, one meal from a local restaurant, what would it be?

I really have so many favorites but I recently enjoyed a Bahn Mi sandwich from the new Menomonie Market Co-op Deli (in Eau Claire), and it was kind of life-changing.

What is your favorite piece of local trivia?

Did you know that baseball legend Hank Aaron started his career playing for the Eau Claire Bears?

What book, TV show, or movie would you recommend to the members of the City Council?

One book I’m really enjoying and finding so inspiring is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. The author discusses the wisdom of Indigenous traditions and casts a vision of how embracing these practices within our Western culture will help shift our thinking towards a more “honorable harvest” of the land and a more sustainable livelihood for all its inhabitants. I think it’s so important to honor the traditions and cultures that formed this land and to see them take root for future generations to come.

What sort of economic development would you like to see in our area?

I would love to see more attention given to affordable housing for those in our community who are struggling with homelessness and facing economic vulnerability. There are so many individuals who have come through so much hardship in our city and need our compassion and support.

Cat's Shoutouts

Eggs & Issues. “A great way to stay informed about local issues and engage with our elected officials is through Eggs & Issues organized through the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce.”

Dotters Books. “Book lovers should go scour the shelves of Dotters Books, a local independent bookstore with an amazing variety of genres represented. I found a ‘Bernie Sanders’ mystery book that was just delightful!”

Stella Blues. “A great dinner spot is Stella Blues, they have a robust cocktail menu as well as some tasty, Cajun-inspired food offerings. It’s a good option for any season as they also have a patio with outdoor seating.”

If you or someone you know would make a good candidate for Questioning the Locals, send us a message with their contact info and a little bit about them!