September 15, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointment of Karen Henry Stokes to the Michigan Civil Rights Commission.  Ms. Henry Stokes, of Grand Rapids, is president of the Paul B. Henry Foundation.

Ms. Henry Stokes is appointed to represent Republicans for a term expiring December 31, 2008.  She succeeds Valerie Pierre Simmons whose term has expired. 

The Michigan Civil Rights Commission investigates alleged discrimination against any person because of religion, race, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, height, weight, arrest record, or physical or mental disabilities and works to secure the equal protection of such civil rights without discrimination.

This appointment is subject to Article V, Section 6 of the Michigan State Constitution of 1963.  The appointment stands confirmed unless disapproved by the Senate within 60 days.