Bay City residents protest government policies and demand action against ICE and genocide

The Bay City Council meeting on June 24, 2025, featured a passionate address from local resident Valerie, who highlighted significant social and political issues affecting the community and beyond. Valerie spoke about recent protests in Bay City and across the nation, where citizens exercised their First Amendment rights to voice concerns over government policies, particularly regarding immigration enforcement and international conflicts.

Valerie emphasized the need for local government to actively protect community members from agencies like ICE and called for a reallocation of tax dollars towards community support rather than military actions abroad. She criticized union leaders and politicians for failing to mobilize the working class effectively, arguing that they should leverage their influence to advocate for real change.

The speaker expressed urgency for immediate action, suggesting that a general strike should occur without delay to address ongoing human rights abuses and exploitation of workers, particularly immigrants and marginalized groups. Valerie's remarks underscored a growing frustration with perceived inaction on critical issues, including the impact of U.S. foreign policy and domestic labor conditions.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability and a reminder of the power of collective action, as Valerie urged attendees to recognize the human cost of political decisions and to demand a more compassionate and just approach from their leaders.