Many assume the solution is simple: fill the funding gaps left by the federal pullback. But philanthropy alone can’t replace public investment – and many argue it shouldn’t.
Guest Commentary
At Bridge, we believe in listening to voices from all over our state. Got something to say? Contact us and join the conversation (details below)
How to submit a Guest Commentary
What to know:
Bridge welcomes a diversity of voices and perspectives from readers on issues important to Michigan. Guest commentaries reflect the views of the author(s), and are independent of the nonpartisan, fact-driven reporting of Bridge’s newsroom staff.
Commentaries must be the author’s original work and preferably will not have appeared first in other publications. Bridge reserves the right to decline submissions at our discretion.
We reserve the right to edit commentary for grammar, clarity, brevity or to address legal or factual concerns. We may offer editing suggestions, but in the service of making your work more accessible, not to alter your views.
We do not pay for guest commentary.
Here are some guidelines:
- Columns are usually 500-700 words
- They generally focus on a Michigan topic or policy and should avoid ad hominem attacks
- The more direct, distinct and/or intimate your perspective, the more effective your column will be
- The best columns do more than identify problems; they also offer solutions and facts to back them up
- Please include a one- or two-sentence bio, including the writer’s organization or relevant background.
- Authors must show their work, by backing up facts with links to reports or studies
- Bridge does not publish self-promotional columns or candidate endorsements
- Send a good quality, large headshot of the writer(s) as an attachment
- We also ask that, in return for publishing a guest commentary, the author(s) and their organizations generously promote the link to the published column through your Facebook, Twitter and other social or professional networks.
That’s about it. Keep the writing clear, conversational and free of jargon, and sell our smart and receptive readership on the argument you are trying to make.
Who to contact:
Email your submission or idea to guestcommentary@bridgemi.com. Please briefly describe who you are and what you would like to say and put the words “guest commentary” in the email subject line.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Michigan roads won’t fix themselves. It’s time for a real plan
The time has passed for empty campaign promises and meaningless headlines. Michigan’s leaders need to act and deliver a real solution for our road funding problem.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Ice storm should serve as ‘canary in the coal mine’ for Michigan utilities
For our utilities and state leaders, the catastrophe is a warning of what’s to come if we don’t adapt our grids to an increase in both frequency and intensity of severe weather.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | The safety net is fraying: Emergency care in jeopardy across Michigan
Medicaid isn’t a fringe benefit for the few — it’s a critical lifeline for millions. And it’s a key part of the financial foundation for hospitals that serve our most at-risk communities. But that foundation is crumbling.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | How cutting federal grant funding impacts Michigan residents in need
Federal funding is necessary for Community Action Agencies to survive. Eliminating or reducing funds would be devastating to many in our communities who could be our neighbors and friends.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Cutting Medicaid would gut Michigan schools and hurt our kids
This isn’t just a budgetary issue — it’s also a moral one. When we talk about slashing Medicaid, we’re not talking about trimming fat, we’re talking about cuts that will hurt our most vulnerable children, neighbors, family members and friends.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | It’s time for the Death Star to die: Here’s why
The state should respect local leaders when they determine something is best for their community. That’s why we have local governments. That’s why we have democracy.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Let the sun shine in: It’s time to pass community solar legislation
It’s more important than ever for Michiganders to have the ability to invest in their own reliable community power generation. It’s time for the will of the voters to matter more than dirty utility contributions to politicians.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | U-M regents have another chance at choosing a leader. Will they take it?
Michigan needs a wartime leader, a victor valiant who will stay and be a champion. Ono wasn’t. The regents must make it clear that his replacement should be.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Preserve Pathways to Potential, a vital way to support Michigan children
Michigan’s children and families benefit most from a comprehensive strategy that includes both prevention and intervention. Rather than choosing between these approaches, Michigan has an opportunity to maintain a balanced continuum of support.