In The News

Packed Kalamazoo forum grapples with fear, rights, and how to protect neighbors

Kalamazoo residents packed a public forum to learn their rights, discuss safety, and organize community response amid growing fears of ICE activity.

Latest in In The News
OPINION: Here is one solution for the problem of social media and political violence

The intensity of America’s political culture that factored into the assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk has intensified the scrutiny of the role of social media.

Voices of Youth: Death of transgender man Sam Nordquist raises concern for safety of trans youth

The recent death of Sam Nordquist, a transgender 24-year-old, has called attention to a rise in violence and discrimination against transgender youth.  Many are addressing this issue, but also say much still needs to be done to protect trans youth.

Queer Activist in Battle Creek prepares to go silent to stay safe

Many in the LGBTQIA+ community are taking steps to protect themselves from the threat of Project 25 to roll back rights. As a response, one Queer Activist in Battle Creek plans to keep a low profile while reducing household expenses and getting important papers in order.

Breaking her silence to help other victims of sex trafficking in Battle Creek

“We build a rapport and connect them to services they need. It’s not so much about education. It’s about awareness and doing street outreach to connect with victims. As they pursue recovery we want them to know they’re not walking that journey alone,”

Dr. Tino Smith
Planned closure of overnight Battle Creek Shelter has local faith leader looking for solutions

After three years in operation, the Battle Creek Shelter is slated to close. Dr. Tino Smith of Kingdom Builders Worldwide, the current operator of the shelter, is seeking funding.

Rochelle Riley presenting at the 2023 gala.
Autism Alliance of Michigan gala will help build “A Brighter Tomorrow”

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is hosting its 13th annual Michigan Shines for Autism Gala on Saturday, April 20 at the MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit. This year’s theme is “A Brighter Tomorrow.” 

Roel Garcia is an adjunct professor at Grand Rapids Community College as well as an English as a second language instructor at Zeeland Adult Education.
How a teacher regained his independence after losing his sight

Roel Garcia shares how the loss of most of his sight in high school turned his world upside down before he figured out how to adapt to his disability. He graduated from college, became a journalist, and now is a teacher. 

A wintery day when The Lakeshore Disability Inclusion Co-editor Lucia Rios had to roll her wheelchair in the road, because sidewalks hadn't been cleared of snow.
5 ways to support people with disabilities in the winter

Disability Inclusion Co-editor Lucia Rios suggests five ways people and organizations can help with accessibility during snowy, icy winters.

Donna and Gene Allgaier-Lamberti
What happens when disability rights run up against homeowner associations’ rules?

The Fair Housing Act ensures people with disabilities have the right to modify their residences even if they live in condos and other neighborhoods with homeowner association rules.

Our Sponsors

Gilmore Foundation

Our Media Partners

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Enna Foundation
BINDA Foundation
Southwest Journalism Media Collaborative
Southwest Michigan First
Milestone Senior Services
Consumers Energy

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Southwest Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.