Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing) speaks during Michigan Energy, Michigan Jobs’ 2025 Climate Day of Action. Sept. 10, 2025 | Photo courtesy of Michigan Energy, Michigan Jobs
Hundreds of environmental advocates and community leaders gathered in downtown Lansing Wednesday for a day of action that included live music and commentary from activists and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.
The event was led by Michigan Energy, Michigan Jobs, which included speakers in state Reps. Jason Morgan (D-Ann Arbor) and Timmy Beson (R-Bangor Township), and state Sen. Sam Singh (D-East Lansing).
“Today’s event showed the strength and unity of Michiganders who know that clean energy is the key to strengthening affordability, creating healthier communities, and building a stronger economy,” Derrell Slaughter, Michigan policy director for Climate and Energy at the Natural Resources Defence Council said. “Seeing people from all walks of life gather at the Capitol demonstrates the broad support for policies that keep energy affordable, reliable, and homegrown here in Michigan.”
Those who participated in the event highlighted the economic benefits of clean energy, and the negative health impacts brought by fossil fuels.
“Protecting the health of Michigan families must be at the center of energy policy,” Dr. Lisa Del Buono, board chair of Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action said. “As clinicians, we see how fossil fuel pollution drives asthma and respiratory illness, especially in children and seniors. By accelerating the shift to clean, reliable energy, lawmakers can help ensure every child grows up breathing cleaner air.”
Attendees also advocated for community solar, which would allow Michigan communities to lower their energy bills by subscribing to a local solar energy project.
“Community solar is one of the smartest ways Michigan can grow its clean energy economy,” Patty O’Keefe, Midwest regional director for Vote Solar said. “These projects keep investment and decision-making local, creating jobs, strengthening our farms and businesses, and helping families save on their electric bills. By expanding community solar, we can deliver both energy independence and economic opportunity to communities across the state.”
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