You couldn’t help but to be moved by the naming of those killed by ICE. One person is too many, and it was so meaningful that people took their time and energy to stand boldly and united in stating that this type of policing is not welcomed in Kalamazoo. I believe each person’s presence had an impact on ensuring that this grant was not approved and in asking our Commissioners to be very considerate of what stipulations are attached to any future funding opportunities.

– ISAAC Family Member

Very good news! Last night, because of public outcry, City Manager Malcolm Hankins removed from the City Commission agenda a $1.25 Million federal grant for the Police because it required data-sharing and other cooperation with ICE! He said, “Removing it equals non-acceptance.” (Because of the deadline for accepting it.)

The City Commission chambers were packed with people opposed to the City accepting the grant—including ISAAC Clergy, Rev. Rachel Lonberg, Rev. Sarah Schmidt-Lee, Rabbi Schicker, Rev. Jess Joyce, Rev. Mary Perrin, Pastor Doug King, Deacon Pat Vinge, Rev. Mike Wood and other clergy (especially women.)

The grant was written under the previous City Manager.

A long line of eloquent speakers spoke anyway, thanking but also warning the City Commission about how very wrong the federal policies regarding immigrants are.

I was very proud of such a long line of inspiring speakers!

– Tobi Hanna-Davies

The protest at Burdick and Michigan Avenue elicited honks of support from drivers passing by as they responded to the anti-ICE signs. Not everyone can come to every event but support is out there!

– Denise Hartsough

This evening was a well organized and peaceful protest as we marched from the Radisson hotel to Kalamazoo City Hall. It was even better to see that the chambers were full of people there to speak against acceptance of this grant. Yes, it’s nice that the can was kicked down the road. Better would be to see a written request to be removed from consideration.

– Bryan Boughton

We came ready to speak truth to power, our voices carrying the weight of a community at risk… only to have the grant quietly pulled at the last moment. For a second I felt relief… but it quickly faded as I saw the line to speak stretched around the room, a testament to how much still needed to be said. Then Dr Davis’s eyes met mine. She reminded me we must speak anyway, and I understood… advocacy is not about the moment we’re given, but the responsibility we carry regardless…

– Maggie

I coached basketball in this community for 41 years, but last night I felt the proudest I have ever felt to live here. I had prepared some remarks but would only have repeated what was said. I wanted to say at the end of public comment: “This is what democracy looks like!”

– Coach Dick Shilts