John,

This year has been a test for America and its values. The Coronavirus pandemic has taken the lives of over 5,600 Michiganders in the past three months and we continue to see cases. We’ve seen armed protestors enter the Michigan State Capitol to intimidate lawmakers. We’ve witnessed black men and women lose their lives to police brutality and deeply ingrained prejudices based on the color of their skin. The eruption of protests serves as a collective action and reminder that we have work yet to do. As a black man, witnessing George Floyd’s death was personal and deeply painful for me. 

At the same time, we have been surrounded by the strength of our communities coming together. New conversations have emerged where people have been silent. People are realizing more now than ever than we need each other in times of uncertainty. We are grappling with a complicated history and the systems bourne out the darkest corners of our past. I am hopeful for a future that strives to make a place for all of us -- one that elevates the injustices of the few to right the wrongs of our society. 

We have hard choices to make in Michigan. These choices will determine exactly who we are -- our values and the actions we take that support them. Over the last year and a half as a representative, I have seen a spark from the people of my district, greater Michigan and the nation that we can and we will get there. 

I hope you take the time in the coming days and weeks to reflect on the intricacies of the society we’ve built and the inflection point on which we sit. This exercise should not add to the weight you bear but allow you an opportunity to clarify your dreams, wishes and sense of urgency for building our future together. Should you want a partner in your reflection, know that I welcome your perspective. I will listen. 

Sincerely,

Joe Tate
http://www.tateformichigan.com/