Advocacy
Hope for Creation is involved in efforts to create systemic change, which is desperately needed as our planet continues to warm at record rates and lives are impacted. We advocate for a shift in state and national policy to prioritize climate justice. Whether it is speaking at our local city commission, making phone calls to our representatives, or participating in marches and protests, we recognize that systemic change is absolutely vital. Below are some opportunities to join this effort.
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See below for current advocacy opportunities!
Calling for Climate Justice
January Advocacy:
This month we are learning about our state gubernatorial candidates and sending them a message to let them know that concerned voters want strong, cohesive climate legislation, continued work towards net-zero emissions, and climate resilience and adaptation funding to protect vulnerable communities. Join our early effort to shape this critical race!
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SCRIPT FOR EMAILS:
"My name is __________________ and I’m a concerned Michigander who will be voting in November. I'm calling to urge Candidate [Candidate's Name] to make strong, cohesive climate legislation a top priority in their agenda". PICK ONE OR TWO POINTS TO HIGHLIGHT
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"Voters will want to know where the candidate stands on transitioning our state to 100% clean, affordable energy and achieving net-zero emissions. What is their specific timeline?"
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"My community was severely impacted by [recent extreme weather event like flood/wildfire]. We need a governor who will support climate resilience and adaptation funding to protect vulnerable communities. Will the candidate commit to this?"
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"I support policies that incentivize clean energy generation and energy efficiency in homes and businesses. Will Candidate [Candidate's Name] champion these kinds of initiatives to lower our utility bills and create jobs?"
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“I support community solar as a path to energy independence. Would you sign executive orders to lift the cap on residential solar installations and support legislation with meaningful incentives for community solar projects?”
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“The planned retirement of the JH Campbell coal plant was going to save customers 600 million dollars and decrease major air pollutants. Would you challenge the Trump administration’s order to keep the J.H. Campbell coal plant open?”
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“The Line 5 tunnel project poses serious environmental and safety concerns and violates treaty rights. As judicial orders are still pending regarding Line 5, would you publicly state your objection to building the tunnel and work towards the shutdown of the current underwater oil pipeline that puts our lakes at risk?”
Leading candidates and environmental positions/statements
Jocelyn Benson (Democrat, current Secretary of State) supports government action to address climate change and has vowed to freeze electricity costs temporarily upon taking office. Her campaign focuses on affordability and expanding clean energy jobs, positioning herself as a leader who will prioritize people over corporate interests.
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Garlin Gilchrist (Democrat, current Lieutenant Governor) has been a leading figure in implementing the current administration's climate plan. He has launched the MI Healthy Climate Challenge, a grant program for sustainable initiatives designed to help Michigan achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Gilchrist actively pushes against climate denial and views the fight against climate change as an opportunity for economic growth and innovation.
John James (Republican, current U.S. Representative) acknowledges that the climate is changing but has expressed doubt regarding the scientific consensus on the extent of human impact, stating the "jury was still out". He generally prefers a hands-off government approach, emphasizing that federal overreach is not the solution to the climate crisis. The League of Conservation Voters gives him a low score on environmental votes.
Aric Nesbitt (Republican, Senate Minority Leader) and Tom Leonard (Republican, former Speaker of the House) are other potential Republican contenders. Their stances generally align with the broader Republican platform of deregulation and market-based solutions, often opposing the state's current climate laws, which they view as a hindrance to economic growth.
Mike Duggan (Independent, former Detroit Mayor) is running as an independent. He acknowledges the need to build data centers for future jobs but insists there must be strict, statewide standards to protect the environment and existing residents from increased electricity rates and water usage. He believes local communities should have a final say on such projects, suggesting a balanced approach that considers both economic development and environmental protection.
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United States Reps
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U.S. Senators:
Senator Gary Peters
202-224-6221 (DC office)
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Senator Elissa Slotkin
202-224-4822 (DC office)
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U.S. Congress 4th District (includes Kalamazoo)
Congressman Bill Huizenga
(202) 225-4401 (DC office)
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Governor Whitmer's office
517-335-7858
Michigan Reps for Kalamazoo
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Sean McCann
Office phone: 517-373-5100
Email: sensmccann@senate.michigan.gov
Julie Rogers
Phone: 517-373-1783
Email: julierogers@house.mi.gov
Fish for the Future Campaign
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – In a massive collective effort to protect the Great Lakes and shut down Line 5, organizations and participants part of the Fish for the Future campaign broke the world record for the largest display of origami fish. The campaign collected a total of 86,262 fish. The collection debuted at the Urban Ecology Center this weekend.
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Participants across the world mailed origami fish in thousands of fish to promote protecting our water and shutting down the Line 5 pipeline. The world record for largest display of origami fish was previously set at 18,303 origami fish by a group in Japan.
At the world record-breaking announcement, participants took action and contacted Governor Whitmer’s office to ask her to deny permits for the Line 5 tunnel in the Straits of Mackinac.
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The new world record of 86,262 paper fish include:
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Fish from all 50 states as well as Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico
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15,596 fish made by an Akira Toki Middle School science class in Madison, Wisconsin
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Fish from over 70 groups across the Great Lakes region, including religious organizations and congregations, schools, scout groups, climate action organizations, and more.
Check out the full photo gallery!
