Letter from the Editor:
Even as the color of the leaves change many of our issues stay the same. Neighborhoods, jobs, schools,
healthcare, and water continue to be concerns for the grassroots. Since last November, we also have issues
which are re-emerging, and who we put in the Governor’s office next year is more important than ever.
A few weeks ago, Bankole Thompson hosted an important forum on poverty in Detroit. Thompson wants to
make sure that as Detroit moves forward, we don’t leave anyone behind. Knowing we need more dialogue
like this, we were inspired to create OGW Magazine. OGW stands for Obama Grassroots Walkers. We are
the members of the grassroots in Michigan, who walked house to house to knock on doors for President
Obama in 2008. And we are glad we did. We want to continue to engage the grassroots on the issues, and
electoral politics: Who is fighting for us?
This month’s cover story is about Mayor Weaver’s fight for clean affordable water. As I type this, cities
around the country are facing crisis. While we hear about the struggle for water in Puerto Rico, we have a
water crisis here in Michigan. Flint Mayor, Dr. Karen Weaver visited the White House this week, carrying
the concerns of urban communities with her. Her story fascinating and her commitment is real. Thank you,
Mayor Weaver!
We also sat down with two Detroit City Council Candidates. Former State Representative Mary Walker
talks about jobs and raising the minimum wage. Former Senator Virgil Smith talks about his battle with
alcoholism, and why he is one of the most qualified candidates to sit on Detroit City Council.
State Senator Coleman Young’s recent speech on African American patriotism was so good, it gave me
goose bumps. African Americans have given their blood, sweat and tears for the flag, he says, and we
deserve to have safe ways to express our concerns. In the magic of a digital magazine, we have shared it
with you. Please watch it.
In my life, I was taught that manhood required giving back to our community. I hope you enjoy the labor of
love I’ve put in this magazine.
Maurice Badgett
President
Obama Grassroots Walkers
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