Groundwork Center was proud to co-host the recent—and first—Federal Listening Session for the Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Michigan. Groundwork believes in the importance of federal and state support to increase access to local, affordable, nutritious food, to provide accessible and equitable public transportation, and to transition our grid to reliable, local, clean energy.
While the impact of the convening will be determined in months and years to come, one impact is already apparent: lifelong residents of the U.P. and Northern Lower Michigan saw the federal government show up and hear them out. Results will matter far more than words, but we found it encouraging to see federal staff on the ground here, and we’re committed to follow up with them to hold them to their promise to continue the dialogue and make change happen.
During the meeting, northern Michigan residents emphasized time and time again that they already have solid ideas for solutions to pressing problems. They weren’t looking to the White House to solve problems; the folks in attendance were simply asking federal agencies to help remove the barriers that northern Michigan communities face so families and individuals can live up to their potential and create the thriving, resilient communities we all deserve.
Continued engagement and support from the federal government isn’t guaranteed. We need to continue to work to advance a clean energy economy, promote workforce development, channel funds and resources to our underserved communities, and work to keep dialogue open between federal agencies and rural Michiganders. Let’s continue to build on these relationships to help northern Michiganders unlock their full potential and build strong and climate resilient communities. 
EVENT MEDIA RELEASE BELOW
Linking Up Michigan Convenes Community Stakeholders with Federal Agency Reps to Discuss How Best to Serve the Needs of the Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Michigan
Community Leaders meet with Federal Agencies, Including Under-Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Basel Gooden to Share Successes and Address Challenges
Kewadin