Dear Friends,
January is done, and we’re one step closer to the end of winter and the start of spring! But before the snow melts and the ice thaws for the year, make sure you don’t miss out on the beauty and fun of a pure Michigan winter — from ice skating and fishing to snowboarding and tubing, there’s no shortage of frozen fun to be had!
Our work in the Legislature is off to a great start for the year, and I’m honored to continue serving you and our community in the Senate. I invite you to read on and explore the progress we’re making for District 27 and our entire state.
In observation of President’s Day, my office will be closed on Monday, February 17, 2025, but please be assured I am committed to addressing your concerns about our district. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any feedback regarding what’s happening in Lansing or need assistance. You can contact me at 517-373-0142 for the Lansing office, 810-233-9853 for the district office, or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov.
Working for you,
John Cherry
State Senator
District 27
- The Senate observed White Shirt Day on Feb. 11 to commemorate the 88th anniversary of the end of the Flint sit-down strike and honor Michigan’s hardest workers.
- February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and heritages of African Americans. My colleagues and I have worked to make Michigan a place where everyone can thrive, from centering equity in our state budget investments to banning race-based hair discrimination.
Honoring the Great Laborers of Our State on White Shirt Day
Left: Local leaders and UAW members celebrating White Shirt Day at UAW Local 659 in Flint. Right: Sen. Cherry speaking on his resolution to commemorate White Shirt Day on the Senate floor.
Tuesday, February 11, marked White Shirt Day, recognizing the 88th anniversary of the Flint sit-down strike — a critical moment when UAW members in Michigan bravely fought for their rights and demanded recognition from General Motors. It was a privilege to have my resolution, Senate Resolution 7, adopted by the Senate, honoring the auto workers who risked everything for equality and fair treatment.
Families — men, women, and children — stood united during the strike, displaying remarkable courage. They formed a human shield around the plants to protect the striking workers from violence and worked tirelessly to deliver food and support to those involved. Their relentless determination resulted in higher wages, improved working conditions, and enhanced benefits, paving the way for a brighter future for their families.
Within a year of the strike’s conclusion in 1937, UAW membership soared from 30,000 to 500,000, and autoworker wages skyrocketed by as much as 300%.
Flint, Michigan didn’t just set the stage for change; the brave sacrifices of these auto workers 88 years ago shifted the entire labor movement’s course. Their actions served as a rallying cry for millions of workers across the nation, igniting a surge of renewed union activity and empowering the middle class.
This week marks a time to come together in remembrance and honor of the trailblazers whose heroic sacrifices paved the way for progress in Michigan and beyond. Their legacy isn’t just theirs—it belongs to all of us.
Senate Democrats Stand Strong for Michigan Teachers, First Responders, & Corrections Officers
On Dec. 20, 2024, House Bills 4177, 4665–4667, and 4900–4901 of 2023 and House Bills 5817–5818 and 6058 of 2024 were passed by the Senate and returned to the House for presentation to the Governor. However, House Republicans took illegal action to block these nine bills — which lower health care costs for teachers and first responders and improve retirement benefits for corrections officers — from being presented to the governor, barring them from potentially becoming law.
Due to the actions of the Republican members of the House, Senate Majority Leader Brinks has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Michigan Senate to require House Republicans to abide by the constitution and rightfully send this critical legislation, which was passed by both chambers, to the governor. We won’t stop fighting to protect the sanctity of our constitution and stand strong for Michigan workers.
Genesee Health System Training
Genesee Health System is pleased to offer complimentary training sessions each month, ranging from Mental Health First Aid to specialized training focused on cultural awareness. These programs are designed to enhance resilience and promote a sense of hope within our community. For more information, please click here.
International Academy of Flint Honors Local Sport Icons
Thanks to the Invisible Giants Legacy & Leadership Foundation, the International Academy of Flint had the privilege to honor three legendary sports trailblazers from Flint: Deanna Nolan, who made remarkable strides in women’s basketball, averaging 14 points per game; Linnell Jones-Mckenney, who not only excelled in basketball but also inspired many through her weekly columns in The Journal titled ‘Dream Big,’ encouraging readers to reach for the best that life has to offer; and Shelly Sparks-Green, who was an exceptional HBCU basketball player. Through their incredible achievements, they have paved the way for our young female athletes to reach new heights.
$K Pitch Competition
100k Ideas is hosting a pitch competition for local businesses. Showcase your innovative ideas for a chance to win up to $5,000.00 to supercharge your business. Don’t miss out on this chance to uplift your business — click here for more details.
WHEN: Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: 601 S. Saginaw St., Flint, MI 48502
African American Artists of Michigan All Media Exhibition
The Greater Flint Arts Council is hosting the 32nd Annual African American Artists of Michigan All Media Exhibition throughout February. The gallery will showcase a diverse range of African American artists from across Michigan.
WHEN: Feb. 14 – March 6, 2025, Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: 816 S. Saginaw St., Flint, MI 48502
February 11 was 2-1-1 Day!
Feb. 11 or 2/11 is often recognized as a day to raise awareness and remind folks about the toll-free health and human services referral service system, 2-1-1. This program, available across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, is a fantastic resource to connect people with information and resources to build healthy, safe communities. Made possible through partnership with local United Way offices, 2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To learn more and for help getting connected with resources, click here or simply call 2-1-1.
District Office Hours
Did you know that in addition to our Lansing office, we also have a district office in Downtown Flint? You can reach our Flint district office at (810) 233-9853 or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov. Constituents are invited to schedule appointments with my district staff for assistance with state issues or to discuss important legislation. Appointments are typically available on Mondays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. To schedule an appointment, please click here.
Connect with Me on Social Media!
Connecting with me on social media is a great way to get timely updates on what’s happening in the Michigan Legislature, upcoming events, and helpful resources available to you. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky. See you over there!