Concerned residents show up for Indivisible protest on January 31

A clear blue sky and a bright sun encouraged more than 100 locals who answered the call to protest led by South Haven Indivisible, a local community group working to protect democracy. The mission of South Haven Indivisible includes organizing peaceful protests, engaging in activism, and leading community activities. The non-partisan chapter of the national organization Indivisible also demands "of ourselves and our political leaders the ideals of truth, honesty, and inclusion."

The "No Ice No War" protest took place on the snow covered sidewalks on each side of Phoenix St. just east of Broadway from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 31.

Many locals brought their own signs. Retired South Haven Public School teachers Cheri Stein, Julie Leavitt, and Sarah Rydecki held vigil in the public space, reminding passers by about their constitutional rights.

Left to right: Cheri Stein, Julie Leavitt, and Sarah Rydecki quote the founding fathers

Vicky Kerr, Diana Wright, and Jim Wright, members of the Church of the Epiphany Episcopal, held signs that addressed injustice as they took a stand near the Congregational Church, which provided parking for the protesters.

Left to right: Vicky Kerr, Diana Wright, Jim Wright

Suzanne Berberet traveled to South Haven from St. Joseph to participate. "We don't have anything very organized in St. Joseph," Berberet explained. "I thought I would come here because it's easier than starting something in St. Joseph."

John Cannon of Geneva Township was also glad to attend this organized event. "I attend Indivisible in Saugatuck, but I live here," Cannon explained, holding a handmade poster urging people to "believe your eyes."

Lisa Lenzo, of Saugatuck, took the opportunity to collect signatures for petitions to support Abdul El-Sayed's run for U.S. Senate. Earlier in his campaign, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed introduced himself to South Haven residents when he held an event at Lake Michigan College in July.

Other volunteers passed out whistles, used by bystanders to identify that ICE agents are in a local area. The protest also offered opportunity to contribute cash to support We Care, a local organization that supports people who have basic needs.

Mary Jackson, Casco Township resident and one of the Indivisible South Haven organizers, was asked about the turnout. "I'm thrilled that so many came out on this beautiful day," she said.

The peaceful protest drew many car honks and waves as the town filled with tourists and locals attending Ice Breaker Festival.

Peaceful protesters shared messages on signs and waved flags to catch the attention of drivers on Phoenix St.

South Haven Indivisible holds monthly meetings and social gathering times, all listed on their website. The next scheduled protest is March 28, "No thrones, No Crowns, No Kings," a national effort supported by this local group.

South Haven Indivisible will also hold an educational series focused on understanding Christian Nationalism. The educational program will include showing of the film "God and Country" at the First Congregational Church on Thursday February 12 at 7:00 pm.

The program also offers a book discussion on The Flag and the Cross at the South Haven Memorial Library on Thursday March 12 at 4:00 pm.

The series will conclude with a forum at Lake Michigan College featuring the rector of The Church of the Epiphany, Fr. John Wakefield, and the pastor of First Congregational Church UCC, the Rev. David Frey on Thursday April 9 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm.

Educational Series on Christian Nationalism: February 12, March 12, April 9