Last week, Lt. Governor Gilchrist and I were proud to issue a proclamation celebrating September 15 to October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Michigan.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich history, vibrant culture, and bright future of our Hispanic community. Hispanic Michiganders contribute so much to our state. As entrepreneurs and doctors; artists and journalists, Hispanic Michiganders make Michigan a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Let’s acknowledge and reflect on the rich traditions, resilience, and achievements of this incredible community as we come together to celebrate this month.
Let’s also continue our efforts to ensure that Michigan is a welcoming and inclusive state that provides equal opportunities for all. Together, we can ensure every Michigander can make it in Michigan, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Sincerely,
 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month - Events Across Michigan
On Monday, I stopped by Corazón de Café outside of Grand Rapids to fuel up on some sweet treats. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I encourage Michiganders to take time to check out a local, Hispanic owned small business. Michigan is home to a thriving and vibrant Hispanic/Latino culture through food, art, and music. From delicious restaurants, like the ones found in Detroit’s Mexicantown, to boutiques and bakeries, there’s a lot to explore!
Throughout September and October, communities across Michigan will host celebrations, panel discussions, performances, and educational programs that highlight the Hispanic/Latino community and culture. I invite you to participate in these events to deepen your understanding of our shared history and to advance the journey of building a more inclusive future.
This month offers several events and activities—here are just a few:
Historic Wins for the Hispanic Community Across Michigan
Over the past several years, we've taken big steps to ensure that Michigan is a welcoming and inclusive place that provides equal opportunities for all. That includes making critical investments to support and uplift Michigan’s Hispanic community—here are a few:
- Secured $10 million in ongoing funding for the racial disparities task force, working to create stronger communities by expanding access to healthcare, economic opportunities, and more.
- Secured the funding for a $2.6 million capacity building grant for the Latinx Technology & Community Center in Flint.
- Invested $5 million to support capital improvements for the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber.
- Quintupled working families tax credit, giving over 700,000 Michigan families an average tax refund of $3,150. This is extra cash for groceries, gas, school supplies, and more.
- Hispanic Latino Commission outlined a strategic plan to grow investments in education, workforce and economic development, health, housing, community investment, and public safety.
- Increased funding for English language learners in schools.
- Put tens of thousands of Michiganders on a tuition-free path to higher education through Michigan Reconnect and lowered the cost of college by thousands for 7 out of 10 graduating seniors with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship.
Hispanic and Latino Voices in State Government
Since day one, I have made it a priority to ensure appointees and state government reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Since taking office, I have appointed 18 Hispanic and Latino judges, raising the total number of Hispanic and Latino individuals I have appointed to boards and commissions to 80.
I am committed to ensuring that the representation of the Hispanic community continues to be reflected across boards and commissions, as the Hispanic community is integral to the fabric of the state of Michigan. 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.
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