Dear Vaac Community,

We are a coalition of people directly impacted by the legal system, along with close allies, working to ensure that every person in Michigan knows their right to vote and has the tools to exercise it. In 2024, we showed up powerfully to do just that.

This election, VAAC helped hundreds, many who voted for the very first time. We showed up not just for one outcome but to build lasting power within our community, amplify silenced voices, and drive change beyond a single election.

Driven by solidarity, community care, and dedication, VAAC’s work has increased voter turnout, removing barriers and ensuring access for justice-impacted people and other underserved communities. Yet, our mission is far from complete. The progress we’ve made is just a foundation for ongoing organizing and outreach to ensure every voice is heard in future elections.

It crucial to ensure that individuals most affected by our legal system are equipped with the necessary tools and skills to actively and effectively participate in the democratic process. This includes fostering greater access to civic education, enhancing voter engagement initiatives, and providing platforms for underrepresented voices to be heard. By addressing these areas, we can work towards a political landscape that truly reflects the needs of our communities, paving the way for healthier, more representative outcomes.

We know the implications are clear: the groundwork laid by those aiming to strip away hard-won rights must be met with our strongest resistance yet. We see what’s at stake, and we feel the urgency of this moment.

We know that those who seek to silence us rely on our exhaustion. But we are not alone. Every person in this fight adds to a growing movement. Our issues are connected, our liberation is collective, and our work together truly matters.

Our journey has only begun, and VAAC will keep showing up—bringing love and justice—until every voice is heard.