A Sad Earth Day in Grand Rapids

April 22, 2022

Today we celebrate the 52nd Anniversary of Earth Day.  Many of our member businesses, institutions, and other key Michigan partners have made important announcements this week, demonstrating that there is much to celebrate within the state’s sustainability movement. 

In Grand Rapids, funeral services are being held today for Patrick Lyoya, who was fatally shot by a police officer earlier this month.  For those impacted by his death in our city and across the country, it is not possible for this to be a day of celebration.  We offer our condolences to his family during this devastating time.

For far too many people in Michigan, there are threats more immediate and personal than climate change.  It is important that we recognize that efforts to advance sustainable business and sustainability in our communities and industries are insufficient if we are not working to dismantle white supremacy and support systems change.  West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum is committed to doing so, and will be evaluating the effectiveness of its own work to support the community. 

We would like to elevate the words and actions of others in Grand Rapids that we have found especially helpful to our understanding:

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