Empowering Michigan parents through Moms action at Michigan’s first public event

Moms for Michigan brings a new wave of civic engagement, and it starts at the civic level. In a state where debates over book bans, school safety and legislation affecting children’s futures are mounting, a group of progressive mothers are stepping in to make their voices heard. The inaugural public event – a DIY Yard Sign Decoration Workshop – marks a key moment in this effort to galvanize Michigan parents to have a voice on issues affecting their children, their families and their communities.

Brooke Van Nitishin, founder of Moms for Michigan, formed this coalition to overcome the frustration many parents feel about their lack of representation in key education decisions and child-centered policies. What started as an Instagram feed for her concerns quickly grew into a dynamic community of parents who, despite their busy lives, are deeply engaged in the political landscape shaping their children’s lives. “We are all swamped with daily tasks,” says Van Nitishin, “but as parents we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines while political forces dictate the future of our children. We have found that social media allows us to stay informed and engaged no matter how busy our schedule is.”

Moms for Michigan simplifies the complexity of political engagement by meeting parents where they are – online and through accessible, family-friendly events. Their first major event, a DIY yard sign workshop, will provide a hands-on opportunity for families to create works of art while engaging in discussions about community involvement and the importance of voting. By purchasing garden signs, families can create their own political statements in an atmosphere that encourages dialogue and action.

This event offers families more than just fun. It gives parents a chance to learn about political involvement, even for those who may feel too overwhelmed to participate. In addition to decorating yard signs, members of the Michigan Legislature will be on hand to talk about relational organizing and how small actions taken at the community level can translate into larger political impacts. The event represents a shift from passive observation to active participation, reinforcing the belief that even the busiest parents have a voice in shaping their children’s future.

Moms for Michigan understands that parenting is inherently political. From the moment a child comes into this world, parents navigate systems that will impact every aspect of their upbringing – from the quality of their education to the rules that govern their safety and well-being. By bringing politics into parents’ everyday lives, this group ensures that those who have the most to lose – parents – are equipped to influence policies that impact their families.

DIY yard sign making workshops are just the beginning. Moms for Michigan plans to expand its efforts by continuing to engage parents in key policy discussions across the state. From digital spaces to public parks, the movement provides both an online platform for busy parents and real-world opportunities for engagement, proving that there is no barrier too high for those willing to take action.

This event in Royal Oak is a testament to the power of community organizing and the importance of civic participation, especially for those who have felt overlooked or unheard. Moms for Michigan is a call to action for every parent who wants to ensure a safer, more inclusive and equitable future for their children. Through education, engagement and practical activism, they are changing the political landscape in Michigan – one sign at a time.

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