Dear Neighbor,

Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates and news from your state government.

Michigan Historical Marker in Lansing Rededicated to Malcolm X

I attended the rededication of a Michigan Historical Marker on Friday. It’s in tribute to Malcolm X and his family. Malcolm spent his early years in Lansing, and the marker was placed in front of his family’s former home on South Martin Luther King Boulevard. I am grateful to my colleague, Rep. Sarah Anthony, for her work to honor Malcolm X’s legacy here in our community.

Youth Rally for Reproductive Freedom at Capitol

On Sunday, I spoke at the Youth for Reproductive Freedom Rally at the State Capitol. This rally was organized by young people across the state to demand that their reproductive rights be protected here in Michigan. I appreciated the opportunity to take part in this event, and I am grateful for the students’ activism on this important issue.

COVID-19 Boosters Approved for Children 5 and Up

Last week, the FDA approved COVID-19 booster shots for children 5 to 11 years old. This means that everyone ages 5 and older in Michigan is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and the first booster. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a second COVID-19 vaccine booster shot for anyone 50 years or older and immunocompromised people 12 years or older at least four months after their first booster. In addition to the health department, Sparrow Health Systems, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Meijer and other pharmacies offer the vaccine and the booster.

DNR Invites Michiganders to Plant a Tree

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources invites residents to participate in the Mi Trees Campaign, which set a goal of planting 50 million trees in our state by 2030. Through this program, residents are encouraged to plant a tree and then mark the location on the Mi Trees interactive map. More information about Mi Trees can be found here.

Take Time to Remember this Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a time to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our country. Whether you are celebrating the holiday weekend by grilling in the backyard, going out on the boat, or having your first weekend up north, take a moment to remember and appreciate the people who came before us and gave their lives to protect our freedom. All state offices, including mine, will be closed on Monday in observance of this holiday.

Sincerely,

Kara Hope

State Representative