About Us
Our Story
With democracy under attack, we rose to defend it.
Macomb Defenders Rising (MDR) was founded on the day of Donald Trump’s second inauguration — a day that symbolized division and democratic decline. In that moment, we chose defiance over despair.
We came together — neighbors, parents, students, veterans, faith leaders, union members, and everyday people — to build something bigger than outrage: a sustained, people-powered movement for renewal.
From the start, we’ve been rooted in empathy, integrity, and moral courage. We are not professional politicians or paid strategists. We are ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things because our democracy, our community, and our future demand nothing less.
Born in a Moment That Demands Courage
Our Mission
Protect. Empower. Renew.
We exist to protect what’s sacred — freedom, fairness, and the belief that every person deserves a voice.
Our mission is simple but profound: To build a movement in Macomb County that strengthens community bonds, resists authoritarian threats, and makes political engagement part of everyday life. We aim to turn passive frustration into active participation, transforming cynicism into courage and silence into solidarity. Through direct action, education, and advocacy, we’re not just fighting back — we’re building forward.
Our Values
The Principles That Guide Us
Our mission is to build a movement in Macomb County that strengthens community bonds, counters authoritarian threats, and normalizes political participation.
Through education, advocacy, and grassroots direct action, we’re reshaping local culture to reflect our shared values of democracy, justice, and compassion. When we defend democracy here at home, we defend it everywhere.
- Moral Courage: We speak truth to power, even when it’s uncomfortable.
- Renewal: We believe in second chances — for our country, our systems, and ourselves.
- Community: Real change starts locally, through connection and care.
- Integrity: Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable.
- Education: Knowledge is power, and informed citizens are unstoppable.
- Inclusion: Everyone belongs. Every voice matters.
Meet Our Leaders
Leadership Through Service and Solidarity
We’re led by community organizers, not career politicians. Our leadership team reflects the diversity and spirit of our community — volunteers who step up, listen, and lead with integrity.
From our co-founders to our team leads, every decision is guided by shared purpose: protecting democracy, supporting each other, and uplifting the most vulnerable.
Katrina
Kelly
Our Work in Action
From Streets to Congress: How We Create Change
Our work combines community action with national advocacy because democracy is built from the ground up. MDR mobilizes volunteers to protest, educate, and advocate. We organize rallies and town halls, build partnerships with unions and civic groups, support local candidates who fight for democratic values, and offer mutual aid for those most affected by injustice.
Our teams — from Elections to Outreach, Press, Events, and Education — work together to build a stronger, more resilient Macomb County.
When we act collectively, we create waves of change that ripple beyond our borders.
