Permanent link for Michigan Listens, Reflections | By Multiple Contributors on November 18, 2025

Michigan Listens brought together 9 distinct voices from around the state of Michigan to tell stories informed by their values. Each speaker walked up to the podium in silence, saying their part and walking back to their seat among the audience who held their applause until the final speaker had finished.

The following are guests reflections on the event:

"On November 5 I had the honor to go to the event Michigan Listens. This was a space where nine people from all around Michigan got to tell their story. The unique part about this event was that there was no clapping, cheering, booing or any sort of reaction from the crowd while the speakers were telling their story.  Michigan Listens was very unique to any other kind of space I have been in. As someone that is not originally from Michigan it was very interesting for me to hear the diversity that the state holds. One thing I appreciated about this space was how it allowed me to engage with stories that I might not typically listen to. I noticed that a lot of my circles tend to be people that have similar beliefs to me. That is why I purposely enter spaces such as Michigan Listens or the work I do with Kaufman where I engage with diverse perspectives. It allows me to grow as a person and break down so many stereotypes that I hold about others. I also really enjoyed hearing about the different ways that someone could be present in their community. Each person that went up to speak had different strengths and ways that they showed up for the people they care about. Overall all of these people had a message to tell and I feel a sense of gratitude that they shared even just a small part of their story."

- Molly Schless, Kaufman Interfaith Leadership Cohort Member

 

"One of the most sacred and important aspects of storytelling is the part where we listen. The Michigan Listens’ event re-centered the practice of listening for a night. I’ve found myself at several points since the event paying attention to how I am listening to others stories. 

For myself, the instruction to refrain from clapping after each speaker was very moving. The speakers walked off in a thoughtful silence. That silence allowed time for the audience to consider what they learned, find themes across the speakers, celebrate vulnerability, mourn, and reflect on where they saw themselves in a given story. And sometimes that silence can say more than any words. "

- Joshua Polanski, Director of Engagement, Interfaith Photovoice

 

"Michigan Listens was an overwhelming experience. The structure and intention of the event made it so that there was only silence in between nine speakers - no applause or conversation - and in that silence, their messages truly sank in. I am a person who greatly appreciates moments of pause to process, and in a formal conversation space like this, that opportunity is rare. One of the lines that stuck with me the most was from Noah Prysock, a student from Battle Creek, who spoke profoundly on his experience in higher education and the importance of having a mentor. “She saw me though I couldn’t see myself,” he said. I felt that line in my gut. In working with students every day, I only hope I can do the same - to be someone, maybe the only someone in that student’s life, that truly sees them sitting across from me. I was inspired by Noah and his commitment to be that one person for someone else, and I will remember his reflection for a long time to come."

- Liz English, Campus Program Manager, Kaufman Interfaith Institute

 

"As a high school student, with every class I take, every extracurricular activity I join, and every conversation I have with a peer across the lunch table, I am always seeking new experiences to prepare me for the real world. Michigan Listens was the most comprehensive collection of stories I have ever had the opportunity of witnessing. The event was a representation of the various cultures, upbringings, occupations, and lifestyles that make up our diverse Michigan community. Whether it was a City Manager from the Upper Peninsula or a domestic abuse survivor from the Detroit Metro area, each speaker had a unique story to share and, just as importantly, a platform where they could be heard without judgement. Michigan Listens reminded me that despite the different experiences we are guided by in our daily life, we are all working towards a common future for all of us to thrive in."

- Krishna Mano, Kaufman Interfaith Leadership Scholar

Posted on Permanent link for Michigan Listens, Reflections | By Multiple Contributors on November 18, 2025.