Introduction

• Speaker expresses excitement for the event in Mount Pleasant and shares a personal connection to Central Michigan University (CMU), emphasizing the vibrant community and significant milestones achieved by the institution over the years.

• Remarks on the unique cold climate of the region, highlighting how it shapes the resilience of its people while fostering a sense of unity during harsh winter months.

• Expresses profound gratitude to attendees for coming together, seeking inspiration, and contributing to a collective vision for the future.

Personal Background

• Shares background about family lineage, detailing personal experiences with systemic issues:

  • Grandfather as Sheriff: Worked in East Saint Louis, faced significant poverty and racism despite being in a law enforcement position, detailing the complexities of upholding justice in a system that often marginalized people of color.

  • Mother's Father: A veteran who fought bravely for his country but did not receive equal benefits compared to his white counterparts, reflecting on the injustices faced by many Black servicemen and women.

  • Discusses the painful history of systemic injustice within their family background, emphasizing how these stories have motivated their commitment to advocacy.

Experiences at CMU

• Acknowledges initially feeling like an outsider on campus due to different personal experiences, including cultural heritage that differed from dominant narratives.

• Shares detailed incidents of racism that significantly shaped their personal identity:

  • Encountered neo-Nazi recruitment attempts on campus, underlining the need for vigilance and communal support against hate.

  • Felt ostracized at social events due to assumptions based on appearance, recounting specific instances where these challenges prompted conversations on diversity and inclusion.

• Engaged actively with organizations such as the NAACP to foster a sense of community and support underrepresented students, detailing specific initiatives taken.

• Mentioned starting a poetry competition to promote artistic expression on campus, celebrating diverse voices and stories that resonate among students.

• Stressed the importance of service and community engagement, quoting Shirley Chisholm on service being the rent for living on earth, reinforcing a philosophy of giving back.

Transition to Political Involvement

• After graduating from CMU, decided to return to their hometown, driven by a strong desire to engage in public service at the state capital level.

• Engaged in various internships that provided exposure to legislative processes and the real impacts of public policies, ultimately serving as a representative.

• Confronted similar issues of bigotry in government, sharing anecdotes that illustrate both the progress made and the work still needed.

• Noted the state capital's diversity yet acknowledged persistent challenges regarding poverty and systemic issues that affect marginalized groups.

Pandemic and Protest Experiences

• Recounts the events during the COVID-19 pandemic and protests:

  • Noted protests against health restrictions that included symbols of hate (swastikas and nooses), reflecting on the importance of distinguishing between valid grievances and hate-filled displays.

  • Expressed concern about the societal impact of events like George Floyd's death, emphasizing how these incidents sparked critical discussions about race, systemic racism, and the path forward.

Legislative Achievements and Advocacy

• Became a senator and worked on significant legislation, including:

  • Largest tax cut for families in Michigan's history, aimed at reducing economic burdens on families.

  • Expanded civil rights protections for LGBTQ+ community, illustrating a commitment to inclusivity and equality.

  • Addressed gun violence through common-sense reforms, sharing statistics and community stories to underline the urgency of this work.

• Emphasized real stories of injustice leading to legislative changes, highlighting the need for continual advocacy even after initial progress.

• Shared specific stories of discrimination faced by constituents, framing them as critical issues meriting legislative attention and mobilizing support.

Call to Action for Students and Community

• Encouraged students to remain active in advocacy and to resist complacency regarding progress made.

• Stressed the importance of fostering inclusive environments in personal lives and communities by questioning whether individuals engage with diverse viewpoints in their social and faith communities.

• Urged action against systemic barriers to ensure equal access to opportunities and equity in the pursuit of the American dream.

Conclusion

• Affirmation of optimism for the future of CMU students and the potential for societal change spurred by the next generation.

• Reiterated commitment to serving Michiganders in the capital and encouraged collective efforts for a better future.

• Celebrated the occasion of "Invoke Day," expressing gratitude for the audience's time and encouraging them to join in the ongoing journey towards equity and justice.