The Peace Education Center returned to the Michigan Summit with an information table, a crew of volunteers, and recording equipment. The PEC team spent the rainy, dreary Saturday, May 12, in the comfortable confines of the Kellogg Center in East Lansing with a few hundred other progressives from around the state. Everyone converged on the annual conference to discuss ideas, strategies, and public policy — and to do some networking.
The Peace Education Center’s camera crew recorded the keynote speakers and the morning panelists who discussed, “A Unifying Vision: the Michigan Narrative.” For those who were unable to attend, the video recordings are posted on the PEC’s Youtube Channel.
Here are the links to the specific speakers:
Keynote Speakers:
Barbara Arnwine, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights
Barbara Arnwine, Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, told the Michigan Summit that “The battle is in our favor.” She addressed voting rights and justice in a diverse, inclusive, and equal society.
George Goehl, National People’s Action
George Goehl, Executive Director of National Peoples’ Action, said progressives need to re-envision the economy and suggested strategies for activists.
Panel Discussion: “A Unifying Vision: the Michigan Narrative”
Elaine Mejia, Public Works: Center for the Public Sector
Elaine Mejia of Public Works: The Center for the Public Sector, told progressive activists that the national narrative must re-focus on the essential role of government as a tool for the common good.
Anika Fassia, Public Works: Center for the Public Sector
Anika Fassia of Public Works: The Center for the Public Sector, talks about a Michigan narrative frames policy discussions in terms of community values.
Rick Carter, Flint Area Congregations Together (FACT)
Rick Carter, Executive Director of Flint Area Congregations Together (FACT), urged the clergy to address community issues.
Karla Swift, President of the Michigan AFL-CIO, explained the priorities of the labor movement over the next five years.
To get a flavor and tone of the conference, here is the keynote address of Barbara Arnwine, the Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights:
