In 2018, East Lansing High School student and basketball player Alex Hosey sparked an important conversation about the history of racial discrimination in East Lansing. In a powerful essay, he called out the city’s past practices that kept Black families out of certain neighborhoods and schools. His words struck a chord with many, shining a light on the lasting impact of segregation in the community. 

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What made Hosey’s message even more powerful was his story—before writing his essay, he had quietly protested by sitting during the national anthem at his ELHS basketball games to protest racial injustice. Instead of reacting with criticism, local leaders chose to listen. His essay sparked conversations between city officials, educators, and students about East Lansing’s history of redlining and racial exclusion. Hosey didn’t just speak up for himself—he used his platform to educate others and push for meaningful change. 

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Hosey's essay prompted the East Lansing City Council to take meaningful action. In March 2018, the council unanimously passed a resolution formally acknowledging and apologizing for the city's history of racial discrimination in housing and education. This resolution not only recognized the injustices of the past but also committed the city to ongoing efforts toward equity and inclusion. Alex Hosey's courage in speaking out serves as a powerful example of how young voices can lead to significant change in their communities.