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State Police Employees Thrive in
African American Employee Resource Group
Black History Month Videos Highlight Agency?s Focus on Diversity
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?February 16, 2024
LANSING, MICH. Michigan State Police (MSP) members seeking a sense of community have found their place in the employee-led African American Employee Resource Group (AAERG), one of the department?s commitments to diversity that is highlighted in a new video series marking Black History Month.
?Being part of and leading the AAERG is a source of gratitude for me,? said Sgt. DiJon Ware, AAERG co-chair. ?It not only instills a sense of belonging but also nurtures inclusivity, fosters a supportive community and encourages diverse perspectives, thereby enriching the workplace culture. Over the past year, we've educated both our members and allies about African American culture and we've proactively forged connections within our communities through various outreach events across the state.?
Recruiting new and diverse applicants remains a priority. With continued support from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the legislature, the MSP has received funding to hire and train new troopers each fiscal year. ?
?You have my commitment that my staff and I will work to earn trust and build relationships across the state that will ensure a future talent pipeline that includes all components of diversity, which will make for a better MSP committed to building a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure,? said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP.?
The AAERG was established in 2022. The group has grown to now include 60 members from across the department.
Throughout February, which is Black History Month, the MSP is recognizing and honoring the contributions of its Black members including those in the AAERG, in a series of videos.
The MSP is among one of the first state agencies in Michigan to establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). They are one of the ways the department is modernizing its approach to attracting talent, improving employee retention, practicing inclusion and amplifying allyship for personal growth and community development.
ERGs are employee-led groups that serve as internal communities where individuals with shared identities can voluntarily gather to celebrate their common experiences and strengthen workplace culture through mentorship and educational opportunities. Ultimately, these groups provide a sense of belonging for employees, which increases workplace satisfaction, attracts talent and drives employee retention.
?With each of our ERGs, we move one step closer to building a culture where together is always better,? said Insp. Sarah Krebs, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. ?These are incredible support systems and also a wonderful way to help educate allies. We are committed to bringing awareness, respect and inclusion to our worksites and within the communities?we serve.?
Today, within the MSP, there are seven ERGs including the AAERG. They are American Indian, Asian Pacific Islander American, Diverse Abilities, MSP P.R.I.D.E. (Professionals Respecting the Identities of Everyone), MSP Military Veteran and Women Leading Change.?
To learn more about a career with the MSP, visit www.mi.gov/MSPjobs.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Lori Dougovito, Communications & Outreach Division, 517-281-9586 or [email protected]
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