Governor Synder,

Thank you for your statement condemning hate speech and encouraging unity across the State of Michigan.  Kalkaska For Peace is a grass roots organization that is dedicated to accomplishing these goals. We have taken a strong stance against the hate speech that Kalkaska Village President Jeff Sieting has posted or shared via social media and has refused to disavow.  It is our belief that advocating genocide and violence can never be tolerated.

Kalkaska's village council has refused to take a stand and denounce Mr. Sieting's hate speech.  We call upon you, and Kalkaska county's other elected representatives, to do so.  Your support will hopefully encourage our village council to take a stand.  The village council has the option to save the Village of Kalkaska the time and expense of a recall election by pursuing its "Ethical Standards of Conduct" ordinance.  A recall election may also not be successful.  Condemning hate speech should never be an issue of how much popular support it may have.

It is our belief that Michigan's diversity makes Michigan stronger and more competitive.

Thank you.