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Our Hometown is Marching for Change: Why Livonia’s

Streets Should Echo with Our Voice

Local hometowns like Livonia hosting marches in protest can amplify voices and bring attention to important issues. These events create a platform for our neighbors to express their concerns, foster community solidarity, and all while inspiring change.

For example, Livonia has hosted protests for causes like abortion rights--several hundred marching from Rotary Park to Seven Mile and Farmington Road in 2022, Right to Life Supporters picketing Planned Parenthood over several years, and racial justice--several thousand joining together to march from the Kirksey Recreation Center to City Hall in 2020, demonstrating the power of local action in contributing to broader movements.

By participating Saturday, we are showing support and encouraging civic engagement. While this typewriter and bodyguard are in Georgia we will be marching in Woodstock on Saturday afternoon. So in spirit we will be with Livonia.

Nancy Osborne correctly describes this protest march as a way to say "'Protect Social Security', 'Protect Public Education', 'Protect the Constitution', 'Protect the Rule of Law'. 'Hands Off' worked, but now we should also tell what we want, not just what we don't want."

Marches are a powerful form of collective expression, providing a visible platform to advocate for causes that matter deeply to us. They amplify voices, sparking conversations and raising awareness that extends far beyond the event itself. By bringing people together, marches foster a sense of unity and solidarity that can be both empowering and inspiring. History has shown that such gatherings can serve as catalysts for significant societal change, while also offering individuals a tangible way to contribute to a larger movement and make their voices heard. Moreover, marches encourage education and engagement, promoting a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and strengthening the bonds of community action.

In Livonia, hosting or participating in a hometown march can connect us to national movements while addressing the underlying belief that all politics are local. This local action amplifies the broader narrative and demonstrates the collective power of citizens when we stand united for change.

For those who attend this Saturday, make it a point to introduce yourself to others, and thank everyone you see for being a part of speaking up and speaking out. Let others know they are not alone.

Livonia, both as individuals and as a community, must stand united in support of the national movement that is uniting in opposition to those moving America toward an autocratic form of government and away from the constitutional principles our forefathers fought for 250 years ago. It is imperative that every elected official demonstrates solidarity by participating in this hometown, homegrown march on Saturday.

Our Hometown is Standing Tall for the Right to Read: Celebrating National Library Week with Purpose

As institutions across the country censor voices and erase history—like the United States Naval Academy removing Maya Angelou’s works and Holocaust narratives while leaving Mein Kampf untouched—Livonia remains a beacon of hope.

Our community proudly celebrates National Library Week, reminding the nation of the critical importance of intellectual freedom and access to diverse perspectives.

Last week, our hometown library reaffirmed its commitment: “We are ‘Drawn to Freedom’—the freedom to read, the freedom to access information, the freedom to find community. These are the opportunities our libraries provide.

Let us honor this mission by taking meaningful action to celebrate and safeguard the invaluable role of libraries. Take a moment to thank a librarian for their unwavering dedication to preserving knowledge and fostering curiosity. Reflect on how the library has impacted your own life, and share your story to inspire others to recognize its significance. Rediscover the treasures within—check out a book, or better yet, a few, and immerse yourself in the boundless worlds they offer. Spread the message far and wide that the freedom to read is a cornerstone of our democracy, one that must never be taken for granted.

Together, we can champion the importance of intellectual freedom and ensure that libraries remain sanctuaries of knowledge for generations to come.

Livonia refuses to stand silent while voices are stifled and history is erased. We will fiercely defend the right to knowledge and protect the diversity of thought that fuels progress. Our libraries are more than just buildings—they are bastions of freedom, where ideas take root and minds are liberated. The fight for intellectual freedom starts here, and Livonia will lead the charge.

Our Hometown is Celebrating Livonia’s Day of Unity and Prayer.

At the inaugural meeting of a group dedicated to hosting a hometown interfaith service on May 1st—recognized nationally since 1952 as a day of prayer—organizer Layal Boussi set an inspiring tone. She opened the gathering by emphasizing that Livonia, a community rooted in unity, understanding, and shared values, should establish a new tradition. This event, she suggested, would represent all faiths, celebrating the diversity of ethnicities and religious practices that make Livonia a truly welcoming community.

Committee members working to make this Day of Prayer and Unity possible has included a representation of the faith community practicing in Livonia: Raman Singh, Layal Boussi, Sr. Nancy Jamroz, Steve Spreitzer, Wissam Charafeddine, Ali Moussa, Saiprasad Jammalamadaka, Haitham Fakouri, Gail Katz, Meenakshi Rajachudamani, Harminder Nagra, Fr. George Shalhoub.

You are warmly invited to join us on Thursday, May 1st, at the Madonna University Welcome Center for an inspiring evening that celebrates the spirit of Livonia's welcoming and diverse community. Beginning at 6:00 PM, attendees can explore engaging displays representing seven faiths—Hindu, Sikh, Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Buddhist, and Native American—showcasing the rich traditions of our neighbors. At 7:00 PM, a heartfelt program featuring music and scripture will highlight the shared values and unity that make Livonia truly extraordinary. Together, we can honor the diversity that enriches our community and strengthen the bonds that bring us closer. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something meaningful and uplifting.

With over 150 reservations already, we’re nearing our goal of 250 attendees for this free event. Let’s unite to show Livonia’s welcoming spirit and celebrate what makes our community special.

State Representative Stephanie Young, after an introduction by former County Commissioner Bill Joyner will honor faith leaders and underscore the importance of collaborative efforts for Livonia's well-being. Madonna University President Dr. Christopher Dougherty and Michigan Roundtable Co-Chairman Steve Spreitzer will offer comments on the importance of being a welcoming community.

The evening's program will feature a rich tapestry of traditions, including a Sikh prayer and song, a Buddhist chant, a Native American land acknowledgment, a Jewish poem, an Islamic call to prayer, and a special performance by Sr. Mary Ann Smith. While the program is still being finalized, it promises to be a meaningful celebration of unity and diversity.

Upon arriving anytime between 6:00 and 7:00 PM, guests will be warmly welcomed by Drew Buatti. During the social and meet-and-mingle portion of the evening, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, Community Construction, and Senator Mary Cavanagh have graciously arranged for desserts and beverages from the Tuscan Cafe. Adding to the ambiance, Livonia's own Robert Johnson will provide soothing background acoustic guitar music, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for all.

Reserve your free spot today by sending a note to one of the committee members, to this typewriter or visiting the Event Page. Let’s come together to celebrate what makes Livonia so special.

It is time to replace the antiquated Police Headquarters in use since the 1960s, build a modern library cutting across generations, and renovate all five of our Fire Stations. All while transforming Five Mile and Farmington. This is not the time to kick the can down the road.

Livonia's Future: A Call to Action for Progress and Vision. Vote Yes in August. But the Council should explore all options before putting it on the ballot.

This August, Livonia voters face a pivotal moment—not only to narrow the field of candidates for City Council to the top eight but also to decide on a proposed millage of 1.43 mills. This decision carries profound implications for the city's future, and FridayMusings is proud to endorse the millage and the vision it represents.

If this does not pass in August, Livonia will not see transformative change for another generation. We need to move forward now--only after exploring all options. If we have,e then Livonia must vote YES. Is this endorsement premature? Not. It is 75 years in the making. We must move now.

This millage rate equals about $12 per month for the average household, about $18 per month for 85% of Livonia households.

Livonia has long been celebrated for its low tax rates, and even with the proposed millage, the city will maintain its reputation as one of the lowest-taxed municipalities in Wayne County, ranking second lowest in the entire county. This is a fair and balanced approach, especially considering the years Livonia and previous city councils and administrations have deferred critical infrastructure repairs and improvements.

Now is the time to act, to invest in our community, and to implement a vision for the future.

The 1.43 mills will fund transformative projects that Livonia desperately needs, including the development of a vibrant city center, the construction of a new police station, renovations to all five fire stations, and the creation of a modern Robert and Janet Bennett Library. These initiatives are not just about buildings; they are about creating spaces that foster connection, safety, and growth. They represent an investment in Livonia's identity as a thriving, forward-thinking community.

These improvements will enhance public safety, ensure our first responders have the facilities they need to serve the community effectively, and provide a world-class educational and cultural resource for all.

The benefits of this project are far-reaching. Economically, the city center will attract new businesses, create jobs, and boost local revenue. Socially, it will provide a space for residents to connect, celebrate, and build a stronger sense of community. Environmentally, the plan emphasizes sustainability, with green spaces and modern infrastructure designed to meet the needs of the future.

Importantly, this project is being approached with careful planning and fiscal responsibility. Livonia's leadership has secured funding for key phases, including the relocation of the senior center, the construction of a new city hall, and the additional infrastructure improvements, without raising taxes. This thoughtful approach ensures that the city center and its accompanying facilities will be a sustainable investment in Livonia's future.

As we look to the examples of thriving downtowns in neighboring communities like Plymouth and Northville, it's clear that a city center can be a transformative force. It can turn Livonia from a "bedroom community" into a destination—a place where people want to live, work, and play.

This is our chance to create a legacy for Livonia. By approving the city center plan, along with these critical public safety and community enhancements, we are not just building new structures; we are building a future filled with opportunity, connection, and pride. Let us come together to support this vision and make Livonia a shining example of what a community can achieve when it embraces progress.

FridayMusings urges all candidates seeking endorsement to advocate for the city center and the proposed millage. We need leaders who are committed to moving Livonia forward-who refuse to pass the responsibility to the next generation of councilmembers. This is a moment for bold, visionary action.

Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan has demonstrated such leadership by dusting off the blueprint for progress and taking decisive steps to move Livonia forward. Her efforts deserve our support, and FridayMusings is committed to doing everything possible to ensure the millage passes in August, even if the Hail Mary effort by the Council President (in the following commentary) does not succeed, along with electing council candidates who share this commitment to progress.

Livonia's future is in our hands. Let us seize this opportunity to build a safer, smarter, and more connected community. Vote yes for the 1.43 mills and for the leaders who will bring this vision to life. Together, we can create a legacy of progress and pride for generations to come.

Our Hometown has one chance to get it right--in the next two weeks let's make sure we have explored every opportunity

FridayMusings supports this vision as outliined above and urges the Council, with a 7-0 vote to put it before the voters.

But at the same time we need to make sure that the proposal to be voted on has "crossed every T and dotted every i." Council President Brandon McCullough, after meeting with Plante Moran last week in what can only be called a "hail mary", is asking the Administration to consider adjustments to the proposal to broaden the scope of the 1.43 mills.

With extensive construction experience, including his role as Facilities Manager for Northville Township, McCullough has thoroughly analyzed the financing outlined by PlanteMoran. He is confident that the funding can cover the renovation of Noble and other infrastructure improvements—all within the same 1.43 mills.

The final Council vote to put this millage on the ballot, expected to be unanimous, is just three weeks away.

The McCullough proposal is one worthy of consideration, is important enough to have the administration explore the feasibility using the cost per square foot that McCullough says is not only responsible but is appropriate given the economic climate today.

This graph, prepared by McCullough, explains it in an easy-to-understand format. Money would be allocated for a total Vision 21 plan--all for the same money.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that cannot be overlooked. Mayor and Council members, this proposal is a win-win for our community. It unites the diverse parts of Livonia, brings the McNamara vision of a thriving Greenmead to life, repurposes the Noble Library in innovative ways, and enhances connectivity through pathways and sidewalks across town. It also fulfills a decades-long dream of creating an amphitheater—all within the same 1.43 mills. As the deadline to secure a spot on the August ballot approaches, this transformative vision deserves your full consideration. Let’s seize this moment.

Using a baseball metaphor---it is the bottom of the 9th and Torkelson is at the plate, bases loaded, down by 3. Does he hit a home run or does he strike out?