By Zoe Zeerip
Great Lakes Business Network Coordinator
On a blustery winter day in the heart of Detroit, climate activists, business owners, policymakers, and community leaders gathered at the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation with one unifying message: “Climate Can’t Wait.” Despite blizzard conditions on February 15, more than 200 attendees convened to protest the rollback of climate investments, the Energy Emergency Executive Order, and the continued exploitation of already overburdened communities by polluting corporations.
“Hold on to your community, hold on to your ‘why,’ and speak out!”
Detroit City Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero
The urgency was palpable as voices of all ages ranging from five to 75 chanted, “People over profit!” Speakers included Detroit City Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero, Ebony Elmore, of the Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition, youth leaders from 482 Forward, and Congresswomen Rashida Tlaib and Debbie Dingell. Santiago-Romero urged the crowd to “Hold on to your community, hold on to your ‘why,’ and speak out!” We know that federal rollbacks and the sweep of terminations aimed at federal employees working day and night to ensure equitable implementation of climate action will have devastating effects for decades to come, but we can’t let that stunt us into inaction.
The rally was a powerful reminder that real change comes from the people. In a time when ideological divides seem wider than ever, we were reminded that it is our connections with neighbors, local leaders, and community organizations that foster unity and action. That spirit was rekindled in Detroit, reigniting the fight for an equitable and just transition to clean energy, clean water, and clean air, knowing that the benefits—new jobs, cleaner air, and fewer disasters—are worth rallying for.
The rally was co-hosted by the Great Lakes Business Network, Environmental Defense Fund Action, Michigan Climate Action Network, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Moms Clean Air Force, and West Michigan Environmental Action Council. 
Zoe Zeerip, Great Lakes Business Network Coordinator
zoe.zeerip@groundworkcenter.org
