Community demands justice for Amber Arnett as search efforts stall in Lansing

The January 13, 2025, City Council meeting in Lansing, Michigan, addressed several pressing community issues, including the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Amber Arnett and the challenges faced by local businesses, particularly within the Black community.

The meeting began with a poignant discussion regarding Amber Arnett, whose case remains unresolved. A community member expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation, emphasizing the emotional toll on Arnett's family. They highlighted a public Facebook group, "Help Us Find Amber," which aims to coordinate search efforts. The speaker urged the city to take more decisive action to find Arnett and bring closure to her family, condemning the circumstances surrounding her disappearance as a tragedy that demands justice.

Following this, Willie Hobbs, a long-time Lansing resident, shared his experiences of systemic barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs in the city. He articulated a sense of hopelessness, noting that despite efforts to improve their circumstances, many still encounter significant obstacles when trying to establish businesses. Hobbs lamented the lack of change over the decades, suggesting that the community's struggles are often overlooked, and called for greater accountability and support for marginalized individuals.

The meeting concluded with a written communication from Elaine Dirwa Fishoff regarding the appointment of Christopher Hawkins to the Board of Water and Light Board. Council Member Brown also took a moment to acknowledge the testimonies shared during the meeting, expressing empathy for the challenges faced by local business owners and suggesting a review of public funding allocations to ensure they are effectively supporting the community.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for action on both the Amber Arnett case and the economic challenges within Lansing, reflecting a community grappling with unresolved issues and a desire for meaningful change.