The RFRA is based on a federal law passed in 1993. Its opponents here are using outlandish claims to spread fear about its potential effect here.
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.
CON Michigan's Electoral College split: A spiteful rule change
If Republicans are so concerned about proportion and fairness, why are plans to change the way votes are divided only being considered in blue states with red-dominated legislatures?
PRO Michigan's Electoral College split: A return to relevancy
Winner-take-all robs the state of true relevancy in presidential election years. Restoring it is a matter of making the state more competitive.
For teens, what a skilled trades career looks like
New guides help Michigan teens and young adults envision a path to dozens of well-paying skilled trades careers that don’t require a four-year college education.
Market-based approach will best protect the Straits from spills
If Enbridge Energy Partners believes its pipelines are safe, the company shouldn’t mind an agreement that holds it liable for cleanups if another petroleum spill happens around the precious Great Lakes.
Detroit water shutoffs must end
Detroit’s water shutoffs strike a blow to the rights and public trust in water of Detroit’s poor.
Senate should hold vote on public records bill
A bill that that would increase government transparency appears stalled in the Michigan Senate, after passing by overwhelming bipartisan majorities in the House. Why?
Appeals ruling delays this gay couple’s return to Michigan
Kent and Diego Love-Ramirez moved with their son Lucas from Michigan to Minnesota because Michigan bans same-sex marriage and joint adoptions. A recent appeals court ruling means they won’t be returning soon.
Transportation funding means more than roads and bridges
To attract a talented workforce and compete with rival states, Michigan must invest in more reliable and accessible public transit, and make our communities more walkable and bike-friendly.
Headlee’s signature amendment has worked for all Michigan residents
It’s a lot more than “academic” – the limitations on taxation imposed by the Headlee amendment have been a needed governor on excess spending.