State Senator Mark Spencer

Memorial Day asks something simple of us: remember.

Remember the Americans who never came home.

Remember the families who carried on without them.

Remember that the freedoms we enjoy every day were secured through extraordinary sacrifice by ordinary people who answered a call greater than themselves.

Their service shaped our nation. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Today, we honor their memory and express our deepest gratitude to those who gave everything for our country.

I’ve been continually blessed to have a career serving students, and I’m so appreciative of every other person who found that same calling.

It’s an honor to call you colleagues. Thank you, so much, for the work you do to prepare Hoosier children for tomorrow.

The recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court regarding congressional redistricting raises serious and understandable concerns for many Americans about representation and the long-standing intent of the Voting Rights Act. I share those concerns.

We must remain vigilant in protecting the principle that every citizen, regardless of race, background or geography, has a fair and meaningful opportunity to be heard in our democracy, and we cannot afford to lose ground on that promise.

Throughout our nation’s history, progress has often required both legal clarity and moral commitment. This moment calls for continued dialogue, thoughtful leadership, and a shared responsibility to ensure that our systems reflect both the letter and the spirit of equal representation.

While this ruling will be interpreted and applied differently across states, here in Indiana, our focus remains steady: expanding civic participation, strengthening trust in our institutions and ensuring that every Hoosier feels seen, heard and represented.

We move forward not in division, but with a renewed commitment to fairness, access and the enduring promise of American democracy.

Because in the end, the strength of our democracy is measured not by who wins, but by whether every voice has a fair chance to be heard.

I am blessed to share that both of my bills that were passed this session, SEA 164 and SEA 232, received a ceremonial bill signing.

I am grateful for the collaboration and partnership that made it possible to get to this point, and I am excited to see these pieces of legislation bring positive impact to our region and our state: SEA 164, requiring a study to determine the feasibility of urban microfarming zones statewide, and SEA 232, granting the City of Gary flexibility in selling thousands of vacant properties.

Thank you, District 3, for your continued support and encouragement in the work we are doing in the People’s House. It is an honor to serve you.

I was grateful for the opportunity to present Gary Chamber of Commerce President Chuck Hughes with a Distinguished Hoosier Award on behalf of the Governor’s Office.

This award is a testament to a life of service and to his impact not only on our Northwest Indiana Community, but our entire state.

Gary Chamber leader earns Distinguished Hoosier Award • Northwest Indiana Business Magazine State Sen. Mark Spencer (D-Gary) presented the award to the Gary Chamber of Commerce leader on April 22 on behalf of Gov. Mike Braun.

I am blessed to share that the City of Gary will be hosting a special screening of the new Michael Jackson biopic, “Michael,” for our community next week.

Michael Jackson is a crucial part of the history of the City of Gary. The imprint that he and his family have left on our community cannot be overstated, and I am grateful for the opportunity to come together with a shared sense of pride for the greatness that comes from Northwest Indiana.

The screening will be at 6 p.m. on April 13 at West Side Leadership Academy’s Mark Spencer Auditorium. Gary residents can now get free tickets at the West Side main office, YWCA of Gary, Urban League of Northwest Indiana, and Beautiful Things Boutique.

I can’t wait to see you there!

Easter is a reminder that hope is powerful and renewal is always possible.

Today and every day, we’re working toward a stronger Indiana where every Hoosier feels that sense of possibility.

Happy Easter from the Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus.

In District 3, looking out for our neighbors is part of who we are. Every family deserves access to food and the support they need to thrive.

This March, we're sharing a list of free food resources available to individuals and families in District 3. If you or someone you know could use a helping hand, please take a moment to explore the link below.

When we support one another, we build a stronger community and a stronger Indiana. �

Free Food Available in Gary and Northwest Indiana This March - Capital B Gary As federal SNAP work requirements tighten, churches and nonprofits across the region are hosting food distributions throughout the month.

Grateful to everyone who joined us in our town hall meeting in District 3.

I truly appreciate the thoughtful conversations and the opportunity to hear directly from members of our community about the issues that matter most to them. Your voices, concerns and ideas help guide the work we do everyday.

I remain committed to listening, showing up and working together to strengthen our community and address challenges ahead. �