In order to avoid Move-in-Day at the University of Michigan, the meeting was held at Cobblestone Farms. President Dawn Johnson called the meeting to order and after reciting the Four Way Test, Dennis Burke gave the inspiration. He reminded us about America’s values and community service and emphasized ethical behavior and environmental solutions.

Marlena Studer, our song leader then extolled our great state of Michigan, with the following:

Michigan was Made for You and Me
Original music by Woody Guthrie, lyrics by Marlena Studer

As I was walking that Michigan highway 
I saw above me that Detroit skyway; 
I saw below me that Huron Valley; 
MICHIGAN was made for you and me.

This land is your land, this land is my land
From the Huron River to Mackinaw Island,
From the Pictured Rocks to the Presque Isle waters; 
MICHIGAN was made for you and me.

I’ve roamed and rambled on Chippewa footsteps 
To the Sleeping Bear Dunes of her luscious lakeshore; 
And all around me a voice was sounding;
MICHIGAN was made for you and me.

This land is your land, this land is my land
From the Huron River to Mackinaw Island,
From the Pictured Rocks to the Presque Isle waters; 
MICHIGAN was made for you and me.

When the sun came shining as I was strolling, 
And the WOLVERINES waving and the SPARTANS rolling, 
As the fog was lifting a voice was chanting: 
MICHIGAN was made for you and me.

From the heart

We were honored to have U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell as our speaker.  She was introduced by Ken Fischer. As usual, she spoke “from the heart,” and talked about her concerns for our democracy and the political climate, healthcare legislation, university issues, tax policies, and electoral reforms, paying particular attention to Michigan’s successful redistricting efforts.

Democracy and healthcare concerns

Representative Dingell discussed concerns about the state of democracy and the impact of recent legislation, particularly the healthcare bill that could result in 17 million people losing health coverage. She highlighted issues with the healthcare system, including cuts to Medicaid and Medicare, and the challenges faced by seniors and low-income families. She emphasized the importance of speaking up for democracy and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, while expressing worry about the current political climate and its effects on everyday Americans.

The current political climate

She expressed concerns about the current political climate, including the impact of the “Big Shitty Bill” on hospitals and the division of people against each other. She emphasized the importance of relationships and direct communication over social media. Representative Dingell addressed the challenges faced by scientists and researchers due to funding cuts and encouraged collaboration to build a case for the importance of scientific research.

Political engagement and campus safety

Dingell also discussed political engagement and university issues. She emphasized the need for Democrats to actively communicate their agenda and engage with voters, particularly working-class individuals who feel unheard. They discussed concerns about universities’ handling of security and diversity, including recent cases involving Chinese students and the need to protect academic freedom while ensuring campus safety. The conversation also touched on the challenges facing universities, including budget uncertainties and the impact of political tensions on campus environments.

Tax fairness and electoral reform

Dingell then focused on tax policies, government responsibilities, and electoral reforms. She discussed the need for fair and equitable taxation, particularly for the wealthy, and highlighted the importance of expanding Social Security benefits and dental insurance for seniors. She also addressed the issue of gerrymandering in elections and the need for nonpartisan redistricting, with Michigan cited as an example of successful reform. She expressed hope that other states would follow suit to ensure fair representation for all voters.

The presentation concluded with Dingell taking questions and agreeing to stay late for more discussions and photos.

The meeting was adjourned by President Dawn Johnson.