Battle Creek commissioners issue proclamations for firefighter cancer awareness, human trafficking and racial healing

The Battle Creek City Commission on Jan. 7 issued three proclamations recognizing firefighter cancer awareness month, human trafficking awareness month and the National Day of Racial Healing.

The proclamations were read during the start of the meeting and were followed by short remarks from local organizations. Commissioners honored members of the Battle Creek Fire Department and recognized the growing attention to cancer risks among firefighters.

Ellen Collier, chief executive officer of Safe Place, spoke after the human trafficking proclamation. She said Safe Place provided direct supportive services to more than 50 survivors over the past year and is expanding housing capacity with six new apartments on its property to support long-term recovery. "We are honored to be able to provide safety and supportive services to survivors here in Calhoun County and across the state of Michigan," Collier said.

Tha Parr, co-executive director of Truth, Bridal, Healing and Transformation, spoke after the proclamation for the National Day of Racial Healing and invited the public to an event at the DoubleTree hotel on Jan. 21 at 5:30 p.m. Parr described the event as a community gathering to "embrace our shared humanity" and noted it will include food, entertainment and discussion of the organization's five-year goals.

The proclamations were ceremonial and did not require a vote. Commission minutes show the mayor was not present and the vice mayor and commissioners conducted the meeting.