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.

BATTLE CREEK, MI — Despite frigid temperatures, close to 400 people from across the community gathered at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Battle Creek to celebrate the National Day of Racial Healing on the evening of January 20.  The theme of this year’s event, hosted by the Battle Creek Coalition for Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation, was “The Rhythm of Our Community.”  Read the entire article  about our National Day of Racial Healing event on Second Wave Media's web

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.

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.

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

This was a question posed to representatives with Battle Creek Truth Racial Healing and Transformation ( BCTRHT ) and their colleagues...

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.