News

  • A Massive ICE Detention Center Just Opened in Michigan. Here’s Why That Matters for All of Us.

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    This week, the North Lake Correctional Facility in Baldwin, Michigan, officially reopened—not as a prison, but as one of the largest ICE detention centers in the country, with 1,800 beds. This is a huge expansion of Michigan’s immigration detention system, and it’s happening in a facility run by GEO Group—a private prison corporation with a…

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  • Honor our History and Demand a Future Rooted in Equity and Justice

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    Juneteenth marks a delayed freedom and a reminder that access, dignity, and full participation are still not guaranteed for many. Building power through voting is one way we honor our history and demand a future rooted in equity and justice.

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  • Unlocking the Vote: Jail Voting and the Power of Civic Engagement

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    Join VAAC and Michigan Roundtable for a Critical Conversation on Expanding Access Behind Bars Voting is a fundamental right—and no one should be denied participation in democracy simply because they’re incarcerated pretrial or serving a misdemeanor sentence. Yet, across Michigan, access to the ballot is still blocked by logistical barriers, misinformation, and systemic neglect. At…

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  • We Remember, We Resist: Scenes from Silence the Violence Detroit

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    VAAC stands in solidarity with those impacted by gun violence and the communities fighting for healing and change This past Saturday, VAAC joined Detroiters at the annual Silence the Violence march and press conference, hosted by Church of the Messiah and B.L.V.D. Harambee. For 18 years, this community space has honored lives stolen by gun…

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  • Show Up IRL: Celebrate Juneteenth and Justice at These In-Person Events Across Michigan

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    From expungement help to dancing in the streets — these community events are all about action, celebration, and connection. This summer, let’s show up together. In-person events are powerful spaces for celebration, healing, and progress. Whether you’re seeking resources, culture, or community, there’s something happening near you — and we want to see you there.…

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  • Celebrate Juneteenth in Style with Detroit’s Finest!

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    Join the 2025 Juneteenth Gala — a night of Black excellence, legacy, and joy, hosted by the legendary Coco the Comic. Mark your calendars! Our Own Wall Street is pulling out all the stops for this year’s Juneteenth Gala, and you’re invited. Get ready for a night of celebration, unity, and unforgettable energy in the…

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  • Stay Engaged from Anywhere: Don’t Miss These Powerful Virtual Events This Week

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    Join VAAC partners online as we dive into justice reform, public safety, and freedom — all from the comfort of your screen. No matter where you are, you can show up for justice. This week, three incredible virtual events offer a chance to learn, grow, and take action — all on Zoom. Whether you care…

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  • Celebrate Black Joy and Liberation This Juneteenth

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    Join MI Liberation for a powerful day of freedom, culture, and community healing in Oak Park. Juneteenth is more than a holiday — it’s a celebration of survival, resistance, and the ongoing fight for collective liberation. This year, MI Liberation invites you to an unforgettable day rooted in Black joy, justice, and remembrance, and everyone…

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  • Pride Is Powerful. So Is Your Vote.

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    This Pride Month, we honor the LGBTQIA+ community and remind each other: voting is a form of showing up. Pride is more than a celebration — it’s a declaration of strength, resilience, and the ongoing fight for justice. At Voting Access for All Coalition (VAAC), we recognize the deep connections between LGBTQIA+ rights and the…

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  • Join the Movement to Bring Women Home from the Valley

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    Learn how to support commutation efforts and build lasting relationships with incarcerated women. Across Michigan, people are coming together to fight for freedom — and you can be part of it. The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) MI Criminal Justice Program invites you to a powerful monthly Commutation Workshop where you’ll learn how to support…

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  • VAAC Friday Community Meetings in June: 6/6/ & 6/20 – Stay Plugged In!

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    This Friday, June 6: Real ID Access + Ballot Petition Threats This week’s VAAC Community Meeting is packed with information you need to know. We’ll be joined by a representative from the Michigan Department of State to break down how Real ID requirements affect people who are unhoused or justice-impacted, and what options are available.…

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  • Your Rights Are on the Line: Before You Sign, Know the Facts 📜❓✍🏿❌

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    Two dangerous constitutional amendment petitions are circulating in Michigan right now: Committee to Protect Voter Rights‘ “Prove It, Michigan” and Americans for Citizen Voting (AfCV) They’re framed as protecting elections, but what they really do is tie voters up in red tape and create new, permanent barriers to voting, especially for: They require voters to…

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