Joanne Galloway and Casey Lanz grew up in rural America for most of their lives. As they continued life in rural Michigan, their passion for their community led them to take action. By founding the grassroots organization
Michigan Country, Joanne Galloway and one of her Board of Directors, Casey Lanz, seek to change the lives of everyone living in rural Michigan. They want to make information more accessible and empower voters along the way. Hearing about their experiences living in rural Michigan and witnessing firsthand the challenges people, especially women, face in these areas opened my eyes.
Galloway and Lanz taught me about a side of America that I didn’t have any prior exposure to, yet I could identify with some aspects of each of their experiences, especially in regard to their run-ins with sexism. In sharing their stories, I realized just how universal of an experience it was for the three of us to share, despite growing up in vastly different environments.
The two shared their aspirations for the newly founded grassroots organization, stating that they hope to see it become a staple of trust and a safe space for all to partake in. Galloway and Lanz believe that by making civic information more accessible and creating opportunities for dialogue, they can help rural residents take ownership of their futures and make their voices heard.
Listening to Michigan Country’s plans, I enjoyed the genuine passion they expressed while wanting to uplift their community. They are not just addressing voter engagement; they are building connections, fostering a sense of unity, and breaking down barriers that have long kept rural residents from participating fully in civic life. As Michigan Country continues to grow, Galloway and Lanz hope to inspire more rural residents, especially women, to take on leadership roles and advocate for the changes.
By sharing their journey, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience and determination of women in rural America. The stories of Galloway, Lanz, and the community members they support reflect a broader movement—one that calls for inclusion, equality, and the right to be heard, no matter where you reside.