Michael Ramsey on Pride 2021 and Community Impact
Michael Ramsey is one of over 40 members of the LEAD Giving Circle, a group of diverse donors who support justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) efforts in Muskegon County. Michael works as the director of homeless services at Community enCompass. He says that joining LEAD gave him the chance to put his years of experience to work, show up as a leader in the community, and help others understand and serve the community in barrier-free ways.
As part of the LGBTQIA+ community, Michael has wanted to feel welcome and safe for years and is excited to celebrate the normalization of identity. He believes that Muskegon is in the midst of a rebirth and that it is only by coming together and celebrating Pride for ALL that we can grow together. Now is the time to break down barriers, listen to our marginalized people groups, and work together toward a more supportive and welcoming community.
“Pride is about getting together with the people you love and celebrating who you are and how all of our skills, talents, and passions work together,” said Michael. “Whether it be at home, the office, or your neighborhood association, celebrating the uniqueness of the individuals in your circle and uplifting them is how we come together as a community.”
As is typical with progress, it won’t always be easy. Michael pleads with the youth in our community to stay strong and get involved. We all have to work harder and be a part of the change we want to see. Life might be hard right now, but he wants you to know that through the heartache and opposition, someone will love you.
“Building a legacy is like planting a garden that you never get to see. My work is planting trees, and I want to plant as many trees as I can, so people who look like me, love like me, and live like me will be able to find solace under that tree.”
To learn more about the LEAD Giving Circle and how to join leaders like Michael to make a difference in Muskegon County, contact Pete DeBoer at pete@muskegonfoundation.org.