August 2020

Letter from the Editor

While parts of our community are beginning to open up and somewhat resemble normal life, gyms and fitness studios remain closed. This is an especially painful reality as Grand Rapids has seen exciting growth in the industry the past few years: barre studios, yoga of all kinds and dance fitness studios, many of which are women-owned, have cropped up all over the city. Today, owners and trainers are innovating to keep their industry alive. We talked to Sara Grey, owner of Lunar Cycle Studio and Valerie James about how they continue to pivot and innovate to survive the shutdown. Their stories are raw and inspiring as they graciously share the moments during which they felt they felt utterly defeated, and what inspired them to stand up and keep walking forward into the unknown (12).

We shed light on the lives of migrant workers, who are vital to the food systems that fill our community with the fresh, locally-grown organic produce we have come to value. The 50,000 migrant workers are particularly vulnerable in the face of COVID-19 due to work, living and transportation conditions (20). 

Grand Rapids has long been coming to terms with its foundation of inequity, and while events of this summer shocked the community, we encourage everyone to continue to do their part to challenge inequity in their daily lives — together, we can our community one in which all may thrive.  On page 18, Ace Marasigan, Founder of the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival;  Milinda Ysasi, Second Ward Commissioner,  City of Grand Rapid; and Angel Duff, Director and Managing Counsel Legal HR and Diversity & Inclusion at Amway share their insights on how to be an ally in the community, at work and in leadership (18). 

This month marks an important milestone in our history: the Centennial of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. Read about Grand Rapids’ role in the national suffrage movement and  learn about the work Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council, which works tirelessly to honor the legacy of the woman of the past who fought for the rights we have today (8).

COVID-19 remains a danger to many in the community. We implore you to do your part by exercising caution, wearing a mask and supporting those in need in whatever way you can. On page 5 you will find local nonprofits that are in need of volunteers or donations. 

Remember, we are still in this together.

Happy reading!