Oakland County Residents to Join Thousands at State Capitol to Advocate for Behavioral Health Services
OAKLAND COUNTY, MI (سبتمبر 23, 2026) – Oakland County residents, including individuals who receive public mental health services through the Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN), will join approximately 2,000 Michigan residents at the State Capitol in Lansing for the 22nd Annual Walk-a-Mile (WAM) in My Shoes Rally on الأربعاء, سبتمبر 23rd.
Hosted by the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHAM) in partnership with community mental health organizations across the state, including OCHN, the annual rally will bring together individuals receiving behavioral health services, advocates, community leaders, and legislative representatives to raise awareness about the importance of Michigan’s public behavioral health system.
“The Walk-a-Mile in My Shoes Rally is a powerful reminder that every person deserves access to quality behavioral health care and the opportunity to thrive in their community” states OCHN’s Executive Director and CEO, Dana Lasenby. “We are proud to stand alongside individuals with lived experience, family members, advocates, and community leaders to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure that the voices of those we serve are heard. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more inclusive behavioral health system that supports people in living healthy, meaningful, and independent lives.”
During the event, advocates and individuals with lived experience will share their personal stories and highlight the impact of individualized care and access to public behavioral health services. Their voices will help demonstrate the importance of ensuring that Michigan residents have access to the resources and supports they need to live healthy, meaningful, and independent lives.
The Walk-a-Mile in My Shoes Rally will provide an opportunity for participants to connect with policymakers, share their experiences, and advocate for continued support of Michigan’s public behavioral health system.