Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Assistant Secretary of State Heaster Wheeler have announced they will participate in conversations and listening sessions in the months ahead regarding the disenfranchised Michigan communities that typically have low turnout in elections. Benson says the killing of George Floyd and many others, the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color, and inequities in the education, healthcare, and criminal justice systems underscore the work that must be done. Her administration is reaching out to community leaders around the state to organize events. Those who would like to set up a virtual conversation with Benson and Wheeler are encouraged to contact the Michigan Secretary of State’s office by emailing Zaineb A. Hussein at HusseinZ3@Michigan.gov. Benson says many of the voting precincts with the lowest turnout are located in Detroit, Flint, Ypsilanti, Pontiac, Warren, Grand Rapids, and the Benton Harbor areas.
