Our Stories
Truth-telling, memory, and vision from the people of Battle Creek.

On Tuesday, March 24th, 87 young people from across Calhoun County spent the day exploring leadership, organizing, and what it means to build change together. They learned the Social Change Ecosystem framework. They practiced proactive and responsive action. They defined freedom for themselves. At the end of the day, students gathered in a circle for one final activity. Facilitator Destiné Price invited them to create a collective poem. Each person had 15 seconds to write one

First Place Winner "Freedom is in knowing you’re afraid, and choosing to push forward because of a greater purpose." Blake Rogers Lakeview High School, Class of 2025 I was born with a gift. Now, before you start to think that I’m going to tell you about some superpower I acquired in a freak accident, or maybe that I see things nobody else can, that’s not the case. My gift is far more practical than that, you see, my gift is that I was born free.  There are a myriad of angles

Witness Isa's emotional shift from the excitement of pursuing a dream to study in Spain to the disappointment of realizing the financial burden makes it unattainable for now. It reflects on anger, grief, and the difficulty of letting go, while ultimately turning toward acceptance and self‑belief. Through the lens of repeated rejection, it highlights the importance of confidence and resilience, reminding readers that closed doors can redirect rather than define their path.

January marks six months since I began my internship with BCTRHT. What started as a role focused on social media quickly became something deeper and more intentional. I have learned the importance of showing up with purpose, amplifying community voices, and using my role to support connection and healing across Battle Creek.

Isa shares how one unexpected act of kindness shifted an overwhelming study day and reminded her of the power of gratitude and community.

This month I’ve been learning what it really means to balance gratitude and rest. Between work, events, and photography, I’m realizing constant motion leaves little room to breathe, and even less to be thankful.

At the MASA Center’s Harvest Party, moments of sharing food, watching a movie, and laughing together reflected the simple ways belonging takes shape. These community spaces show how care, joy, and connection can bring people closer and strengthen the roots of community.

In the midst of the pandemic, I found myself craving stories that could hold both beauty and struggle. Reading became more than escape—it became a practice of freedom. I began choosing books that reflected the fullness of lived experience, stories that helped me imagine something better. This blog is a reflection on how reading has shaped me, held me, and offered a path back to myself.

“Freedom Is Not Finished”: Youth Reflections on Freedom highlights the powerful reflections of youth who participated in BCTRHT’s 2025 Juneteenth Essay Contest. Their words challenge us to confront incomplete freedoms, honor untold histories, and create a community where all can thrive. This blog is a call to listen, to act, and to walk alongside the young people who are already leading us toward a more just future.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion aren't just buzzwords—they're values that shape how we live, work, and connect. Yet too often, these ideals are reduced to performative gestures instead of real change. Authentic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion means ensuring everyone has a seat, the tools to thrive, and a valued voice. It’s not about checking boxes—it’s about shifting power, listening deeply, and building equitable systems where all can flourish. Let’s commit to lasting trans

Explore what Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion really mean and how they can drive positive change in our communities.

Carey Whitfield's consistent, thoughtful action has powerfully championed racial equity and justice in Battle Creek.

What is the Hearts Campaign? The Hearts Campaign—also known as Hearts in the Streets—is a community movement in Battle Creek, organized...

Pictured is the Battle Creek Juneteenth Celebration Committee at Claude Evans Park, 2023. Kathy Antaya witnessed racism at a young age....

Amid challenges and political unrest, embrace stillness this winter. Follow nature's lead to rest, reflect, and prepare for renewal.

“We are walking on paths that were not paved by us but made for us,” said Tanna Biller, a local high school student, when asked about the...