Detroit Families: Parent Voices Are Powerful Voices!

By Sharlonda Buckman, CEO, Detroit Parent Network

There are many conversations happening every day in Detroit about things that impact our children. Sometimes it can feel as if decisions are being made without any regard to those most impacted by the consequences of those decisions. It may feel easier to complain or disengage. Instead, I encourage you to become involved. Be heard. Be part of the conversations.

Detroit Parent Network works with families to empower them to be proactive communicators for their children. Parents are the experts of their children, as we all know, and the fiercest advocates for their well-being. And with that passion and knowledge about their own lives and those of their children, parents can be extraordinary voices for change.

Arlyssa Heard is a great example of a parent who seized the day and became a leader and champion for change. Arlyssa, an education activist and mother of two, became involved when she realized that her voice does make a difference. Several years later, she's run for school board, visited the White House as a Mothering Justice fellow, and been an integral player in organizing efforts to give parents a stronger voice.

How can your voice be heard, too? Start with something you care the most about. Attend a meeting. Volunteer to be on a committee or a team. Detroit Parent Network offers its members many ways to connect and participate.

Content provided by our sponsor, the Michigan Education Savings Program.