We’re here to celebrate a very special molecule. It binds us to each other and every living thing on this planet. Two parts hydrogen, one part oxygen. Moving and changing and constantly supporting all forms of life. H2O, good people. The stuff Michiganders are made of!

This event was built to honor what’s around us. To embrace our local culture and inspire creative collaboration. To explore our responsibility as the stewards of the Great Lakes and expand our ability to respond to problems. Last August, the first Water Festival was held on the Straits of Mackinaw. Today it has manifested in Grand Rapids, on the bank of the largest river in Michigan, thanks to the work and dedication of the Clean Water Fund, members of the Hawks and Owls Stringband, Fox on a Hill Productions, and many volunteers.

We’re also here to gain a greater understanding of the depths of the problems we’re facing locally and globally. One third of the world does not have access to clean water. And the Great Lakes, the most abundant source of fresh surface water on earth, are already seriously threatened by pollution, diversion and privatization. The environmental crisis is real and can no longer be debated. Our children are inheriting global warming and a ten million square-mile hole in the ozone layer. Every living system on earth is in decline. The facts cannot be denied, but neither can our potential as powerful creative beings. We can step back and wait for someone to do something, or we can step forward and help turn this crash into some kind of a landing.

You are not alone! Visionaries from all over the state have come to tell the stories of our shared struggle and provide solutions. They’re working hard to protect our rivers, lakes, wetlands and well-being. Take some time to talk to them. Visit a table. Learn how you can get involved. Enjoy some fresh local food. Listen to some of the finest music Michigan has to offer in folk, jazz, country, soul, blues, gospel and rock n’ roll. Every one of us here has something unique to contribute. Our hope is that you will share your ideas, hear some new ones, and return to your community feeling inspired to work toward new solutions to old problems. The great poet Wendell Berry wrote, “be joyful though you’ve considered all the facts.” Cheers to the Great Lakes and cheers to the good work. It’s never too late to take back the future!

Yours Truly,
Seth Bernard
Earthwork Music