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American Indians, Alaska Native families are important to Michigan
November 23, 2015
For Immediate Release: November 23, 2015
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services celebrates Heritage Month
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is emphasizing the importance of the state’s tribal families as a foundation for a quality of life that provides for cultural identity, safety and well-being for children and adults.
November is American Indian Native Alaska Native Heritage Month in Michigan under a proclamation Gov. Rick Snyder issued that honors the state’s tribal families.
MDHHS is working to educate its own employees and others about the resources and programs available to American Indian and Alaska Native people. The department, through its Office of Native American Affairs, strives to provide culturally relevant services to its American Indian/Alaska Native customers and tribes through:
- Employing American Indian/Alaska Native staff.
- Maintaining tribal liaison functions.
- Publishing specific policy guidance on working with tribal families and governments.
- Providing training and technical assistance.
- Contracting with tribes and Indian organizations to provide culturally-competent services.
The department employs 12 American Indian outreach workers in 12 counties to support members of the 12 federally recognized tribes in Michigan.
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