Protecting the right to vote, community celebrations, upcoming events, and more

I recently joined my Democratic colleagues in introducing the Michigan Voting Rights Act, a comprehensive package of legislation designed to strengthen protections against racial discrimination in voting and ensure every Michigander has an equal voice in our democracy.

The need for action is clear. A recent U.S. Supreme Court decision has weakened key protections that for decades helped safeguard Black and minority voters from discrimination. History teaches us that progress is never guaranteed. We must remain vigilant in defending the rights that generations fought so hard to secure.

My bill, House Bill 5972, is part of this broader effort to ensure fair representation and protect access to the ballot box for all voters.

I’m proud to be among a group of legislators sponsoring the Make It in Michigan Tuition Reimbursement Program, House Bills 6061–6065, to help people stay, work, and build their lives in our state. The program would provide a state tax credit to help ease the burden of student loans for graduates who choose to live and work in Michigan, strengthening our workforce and making it easier for people to live and stay in the communities they call home.

Michigan’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths. I recently introduced legislation, House Bill 5841, to recognize Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Eid al-Ghadeer as official state holidays, reflecting the important role Muslim communities play in our state’s cultural fabric.

Over the past year, House Democrats and I have traveled across Michigan to hear directly from residents about the challenges they face and the future they want to build. We listened to families, workers, educators, students, and small business owners.

The result is our Vision for a Brighter Michigan: a people-centered roadmap focused on lowering costs, expanding opportunity, strengthening public education, and building an economy that works for everyone. I remain committed to fighting for the priorities you shared with us.

Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and humanity, regardless of their immigration status. Reports of inadequate food and medical care and dangerous conditions are deeply concerning and warrant serious review.

Government institutions must operate transparently and uphold fundamental human rights standards. I support efforts to ensure a thorough and independent investigation, accountability, and the protection of the well-being of those held at the facility.

I joined fellow lawmakers in calling for accountability and transparency. I will continue advocating for reform and accountability, and for ensuring that all individuals are treated humanely and with dignity.

Recent reports regarding the deaths of three women incarcerated at Huron Valley Correctional Facility are heartbreaking and deeply troubling.”

No person should be denied necessary medical care. No family should be left with unanswered questions about the treatment of a loved one.

The Michigan Department of Corrections has both a legal and moral responsibility to provide safe conditions and adequate medical care for those in its custody.

I joined fellow lawmakers in calling for accountability and transparency as investigations move forward.

In late May, I was honored to serve as a featured presenter at the Detroit Right to Counsel Coalition’s community teach in, where I discussed the history of Detroit’s Right to Counsel Ordinance and the importance of access to legal representation.

Since being unanimously adopted in 2021, Detroit’s Right To Counsel law has helped thousands of renters navigate eviction proceedings and remain housed. Access to justice should never depend on a person’s income.

I am proud to be a founding member of the Detroit Right to Counsel Coalition and to have worked hand in hand with community members to pass this first of its kind law in Michigan.

On May 16, I was deeply honored to be inducted into the Detroit Public Schools Community District Hall of Fame.

As a proud Detroit Public Schools graduate, I will always be a champion for our students, educators, and public schools. I am grateful for this recognition and for the event’s support of student scholarships.

I had a wonderful time participating in Highland Park’s Michigan Week Parade on May 16.

Thank you to the Parker Pride Foundation, Rehab Highland Park, and the City of Highland Park for bringing the community together for such a joyful celebration.

On May 31, I was honored to attend Hamtramck’s 13th Annual Eid Festival at Keyworth Stadium. The event brought together families, friends, and neighbors in a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and community.

I’m excited to invite you to the Detroit Caucus Juneteenth Celebration! There will be resource tables, music, games, and free food!  There will be special guests from the Detroit Caucus, along with other invited speakers, as we celebrate the legacy of Ms. Delores Bennett.  I look forward to seeing you there!

When: Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Delores Bennett Park, 444 Smith St. in Detroit