On Sunday, September 28, 2025, a quiet morning of worship in Grand Blanc Township turned into a scene of unimaginable horror. A man rammed his truck into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, opened fire on congregants, and set the building ablaze. By the time it was over, at least four people were dead, eight more were wounded, and a place meant for peace was reduced to ash.

In Michigan, our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and spiritual centers are vital parts of our communities. They’re where we grieve and celebrate, where we raise our children with shared values, and where many come to find healing. But these sacred spaces have increasingly become targets for violence. We can’t wait for the next tragedy to act.

We’re calling on the Michigan State Legislature and Governor Gretchen Whitmer to pass a law that establishes a state-funded security grant program for houses of worship. This law must provide urgent resources for:

• Security infrastructure like reinforced doors, surveillance systems, and fire protection equipment
• Active threat training for staff and volunteers
• Coordination support with local law enforcement for emergency planning

This is not about fear—this is about preparation. No one should have to weigh the risk of violence before attending a religious service. No parent should have to worry about whether their child will be safe at Sunday school.

Michigan can lead the way in protecting religious freedom by ensuring that freedom includes safety. Faith communities of all backgrounds deserve to worship without fear.

Let’s come together—across faiths, across party lines—to demand real protections for all who gather in peace.

Sign this petition to urge our state leaders to act now.

Photo: Lukas Katilius/The Flint Journal via AP