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How working with people on the streets turned me into a drug policy reformer

Submitted 04-21-2015 under INNOVATION-SPOTLIGHT

When I dove into work with our homeless communities 15 years ago, I began to understand that another way of helping our neighbors dealing with homelessness and drug addiction is needed- one based on science, compassion, health and human rights.

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LUNAFEST brings films by, for, about women to Grand Rapids

Submitted 04-17-2015 under OPINION

The 2015 program will compel discussion, make you laugh, tug at your heartstrings and motivate you to make a difference in your community. Incredibly diverse in style and content, LUNAFEST is united by a common thread of exceptional storytelling – made by and about women.

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Accessibility Theater: "Art of the Lived Experiment" at UICA

Submitted 04-17-2015 under OPINION

The UICA managed to make an exhibit about accessibility highly inaccessible.

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Empowering community voices through celebrated difference

Submitted 04-01-2015 under VOICES

As the Rapidian's new Community Engagement Specialist, I'd like to share my Grand Rapids roots and hopes for my work with The Rapidian.

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Inclusion: Moving our community from diversity to being "upstanders"

Submitted 03-31-2015 under PLACE-MATTERS

Most everyone knows what it feels like to not be included: to not be chosen for the team or feeling out of place within a group. It’s hard to imagine not feeling part of a community where you live—but it happens—more often than we want to believe.

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Breastfeeding rights under scrutiny

Submitted 03-25-2015 under VOICES

As a nursing mother I was denied my right to nurse my child as needed. Despite Michigan's “Breastfeeding Antidiscrimination Act," I was directed to nurse only in a small study space. Grand Rapids Public Library needs to take steps to create a a safe, welcoming breastfeeding environment.

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Downtown discussions get real about "crip life"

Submitted 03-23-2015 under LOCAL LIFE

LaughFest used humor to open up conversation on differences, disability and the upcoming DisArt Festival.

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Running for the health of it

Submitted 03-18-2015 under OPINION

After running the half marathon, deciding to run a 5K can seem like no big deal. But sometimes the emotional barriers can make 3.1 miles feel like a marathon.

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My health journey: On running and having your s**t together

Submitted 03-11-2015 under VOICES

Running has always made me feel strong, mentally and physically. It’s always given me space to take, to occupy, when I felt like I was disappearing.

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My health journey: Motivating myself for family, community around me

Submitted 03-06-2015 under VOICES

When I went on a mission to start a new trend where healthy eating and living would be a priority, I brought that mission not only to myself but to my children, my grandmother and my community.

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