Dear Friend,

As we start February, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and I are honored to issue a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month. This month, let’s reflect on the rich history, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans who moved our state and nation forward. Let’s also acknowledge the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and opportunity for all. I’m proud of the work we’ve done since I took office to close gaps and create opportunities for everyone, and I look forward to more good work in 2025.

Click here to watch the video message

From the labor strikes led by Black workers in Detroit to the courageous activists of the civil rights movement, Michigan has always been a beacon of progress. Today, we build on this legacy, with Black Michiganders at the forefront of leading our state to a more equitable future. Leaders such as Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist; Kyra Harris Bolden, the first Black woman to serve as a Justice on the Michigan Supreme Court; and Senator Sarah Anthony, the first Black woman to be Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee have led with vision, courage, and a deep commitment to justice and equality.

We still have a lot of good work to do to ensure every Michigander can achieve their American dream, and I look forward to working together to move our state forward. As we celebrate Black History Month, let us also be inspired to continue to push for progress. Together, let’s continue to build a more equitable and representative Michigan where every person has a path to opportunity.

Sincerely,

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor

Black History Month Events Across the State

Throughout the month, communities across Michigan will host celebrations, panel discussions, performances, and educational programs that highlight the impact of Black culture and history. I encourage you to take part in these events to deepen your understanding of our shared history and continue the work of building a more inclusive future.

Here are just a few ways to get involved this month:

• Join the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for special talks and events all February. 
• Attend film screenings and panel discussions at the University of Michigan, University of Detroit Mercy, and Michigan State University focused on the contributions of Black Americans to art, science, and politics.
• Check out art exhibits highlighting the work of Black Artists in West Michigan.
• Join community dialogues and events organized by schools, churches, and civic organizations.

Apply for a State Board or Commission

Since day one, Lt. Governor Gilchrist and I have made it a priority to amplify Black voices and instill real and lasting change. 

In 2020, I created the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) to identify barriers in the Black community in education, community safety, health, and business leadership. Since then, BLAC has served as an instrumental tool as we work to close racial equity gaps and enact policies to build a more inclusive Michigan, like the CROWN Act I signed to ban hair discrimination.

I am committed to building a state government that represents Michigan. That applies to the 240+ boards and commissions that serve the state.  As governor, I have appointed more than 550 Black Michiganders to boards, commissions, and full-time positions, and over 30, or one-third, of my judicial appointees are Black.

If you are interested in making your voice heard by contributing to a state board or commission, review our current Appointments Openings and apply at www.michigan.gov/appointments.

I encourage all Michiganders to bring their talent and perspective to state government and apply for an appointment to a statewide board or commission.