March 14, 2024 - - Former Republican Michigan Senate President Pro Tempore Tonya Schuitmaker and former Michigan House Democratic Leader Christine Greig are launching a community-driven initiative, Michiganders for Civic Resilience (MCR), to build bridges across the political spectrum, restore civil discourse and truth in politics, and prevent the erosion of public trust and violence in U.S. elections.
- MCR is launching two inaugural events on March 14, 2024.
DETROIT March 12, 2024— Michiganders for Civic Resilience (MCR) announced the launch of its pioneering community initiative to build bridges across the political spectrum, restore civil discourse and truth in politics and prevent the erosion of public trust and violence in U.S. elections. Led by two influential figures in Michigan politics, Former Republican Michigan Senate President Pro Tempore Tonya Schuitmaker and Former Michigan House Democratic Leader Christine Greig, MCR will host two launch events on March 14, 2024, in Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, Mich., to bring together prominent leaders and like-minded citizens.
Public trust in U. S. elections is rapidly declining. Fueled by voter disengagement, falsehoods, echo chambers, misrepresentations and disinformation, America’s democracy is under significant threat. MCR recognizes this threat and is building a network of like-minded individuals and partner organizations to mobilize and address these issues head-on.
“The power to effect change lies in the hands of the American people. As citizens, we must rise above political differences and stand firm, voice our opinions, and stay true to the principles on which America was founded," said Christine Greig, former Michigan House Democratic Leader. “Democracy requires continuous vigilance and effort through education, dialogue, and active citizen involvement to protect our elections and address polarization and political violence.”
MCR strongly opposes the dissemination of disinformation that distorts public opinion and influences election outcomes. The organization actively encourages citizens to mobilize, stand up, speak out, and demand transparency and truth in politics to safeguard America’s founding principles.
Tonya Schuitmaker, former Republican Michigan Senate President Pro Tempore, echoes this sentiment: "Countering disinformation and fostering respectful dissent ensures our constitutional republic remains strong and vibrant. Michiganders must protect their voices and safeguard our electoral process. MCR's initiative is a call to action for citizens across the political spectrum to come together and shape policies that truly serve the needs of all our citizens."
Supported by The Carter Center and The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, MCR’s mission is to empower Michigan residents with cross-partisan tools to reduce political polarization, promote constructive dialogue and accountability and uphold America’s founding principles for future generations.
MCR's launch is hosting the following inaugural events on March 14, 2024:
A morning event will be held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum at 303 Pearl Street, NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. Featured speakers include Jeff Polet, Director of the Ford Leadership Forum, The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation; Dan Grant, Associate Director of The Carter Center’s Peace Programs; and Lisa Posthumus Lyons, Kent County Clerk.
An evening event will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, located on the University of Michigan campus, 1000 Beal Avenue, Ann Arbor, Mich. Featured speakers include Former U.S. Ambassador Susan D. Page, Professor, Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy’s Weiser Diplomacy Center; Paige Alexander, CEO, The Carter Center; Gleaves Whitney, Executive Director, The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation; and Larry Kestenbaum, Washtenaw County Clerk.
Following the launch events, Michiganders for Civic Resilience will hold future training sessions focused on crucial issues such as polarization, media literacy, and election integrity to equip citizens with the knowledge and skills to successfully navigate today's complex political landscape and engage in productive dialogue.
For more information about Michiganders for Civic Resilience and to get involved in the movement to safeguard our democracy, visit micivic.org.
About Michiganders for Civic Resilience
The Michiganders for Civic Resilience (MCR) is a community-driven initiative to build bridges across the political spectrum, restore civil discourse and truth in politics and prevent the erosion of public trust and violence in U.S. elections. Supported by The Carter Center and The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, MCR is building a network and empowering Michigan residents with cross-partisan tools to reduce political polarization and promote constructive dialogue and accountability. Visit micivic.org.
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