Grand Rapids Grassroots: An Anthology

by Ashley E. Nickels, Dani Vilella

While Grand Rapids, Michigan is known for large-scale events like ArtPrize; major businesses like Meijer, Steelcase, and Amway, and the philanthropic and political contributions of its wealthiest residents, there are hundreds — if not thousands — of grassroots activists working day-in and day-out to make Grand Rapids what it is and making it what it can be. This project seeks to raise the voices of those individuals and grassroots groups. The editors have joined forces to compile articles, poetry, and personal narratives about and by the grassroots activists of Grand Rapids.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2017

Reviews

[Karah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been the perfect welcome back to Grand Rapids. A powerful compilation from a diverse array of grassroot activists, this work weaves together an exploration of the past, present, and potential future of GR. These stories reveal the roots of systemic injustice in our community, while pointing us towards pathways forward. All while reminding us that at the end of the day, being in relationship with our neighbors is one of the most powerful forms of activism.

[Michael Lewyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

To a greater extent than other books in the Belt Publishing Anthology series, this book focuses on activism - some of which is left-wing, and some of which is apolitical. (There weren't any essays by conservative activists). As a result, a few of the essays seemed a bit repetitive and/or jargon-y to me.

Nevertheless, I liked this book more than not. It gave me a sense of what makes Grand Rapids unique- its one of the few growing Midwestern cities, but is smaller, safer and more compact than other growing cities like Columbus and Indianapolis. Because of its growth, people actually worry about gentrification here, which is not really a concern in declining Rust Belt cities. There seem to be a lot of walkable historic areas, and it seems like more of an "everybody knows everybody else" place than larger cities. The best line in the book was this: "I am a liberal, atheist hater of athletics who has become close friends with ministers, Republicans and yoga instructors. Grand Rapids provides ample opportunity to step outside my bubble."

[Alexandra Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so grateful for this collection of work from various activists in Grand Rapids. As someone who is taking part in my own sustainable activism, it was very helpful and informative of grassroots organizations in the my city. I highlighted several organizations to check out later.

Alsooooo I loved the part on the GR Scooter Club. My neighbor downstairs used to be part of the organization and I was added to the group on Facebook...despite not owning a scooter haha

[Colleen Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Provided stories about the city I love (admitting to some bias already) that I would never have heard had I not read the book. It does make it very clear that gentrification is spoiling some of the magic of the town and fueling the need to address the growing wealth, health, housing, and general infrastructure gaps in GR

[Jonathan Hiskes · Rating 3 out of 5]

A collection of stories about the inspiring work of many different people working for justice and decency in GR. It's also a refreshing reminder that this city is far bigger than my limited experience of it.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a bit biased, but I think this is an excellent book.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot about this city that I recently visited for the first time.