Purpose of the Commission
The Commission exists to advocate for the well-being of the Hispanic/Latino population with the vision of achieving an environment of social justice and economic parity for the Hispanic/Latino population. The Hispanic/Latino Commission is composed by a 15-member Commission under the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. The commissioners are appointed by the Governor of Michigan, for three-year terms, subject to the advice and consent of the State Senate. For the commission to communicate with Hispanic-led organizations, community leaders, and the general public, it is required to have no fewer than six meetings a year that may be scheduled in various parts of the state.
The law directs the Commission to:
- Advise the governor, the Legislature, and the office regarding the coordination and administration of state programs serving Hispanic/Latino communities.
- Make recommendations to the governor and the Legislature regarding changes in state programs, statutes, and policies.
- Advise the governor and the Legislature of the nature, magnitude, and priorities of the problems of Hispanic/Latino populations.
- Review and approve grants to be made from federal, state, or private funds and which are administered by the Office.
- Secure appropriate recognition of Hispanic/Latino accomplishments and contributions to the state.
- Review and approve the annual report prepared by the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan.
Mission: To enhance the abilities of Michigan Hispanics by improving their quality of life and by:
- Promoting the appointment of more Hispanics in positions of influence in the public and private sector.
- Increasing the economic growth and stability of Hispanics.
- Increasing awareness and support of Hispanic issues by local and state government officials.
- Promoting better education and academic achievement of Hispanics.
- Creating a participatory, empowered Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan
History
In July 1974, Gov. William G. Milliken appointed the first 11 members to the Michigan Advisory Council for the Spanish-Speaking through Executive Order #1974-6. On July 15, 1975, the Michigan legislature approved, and Gov. Milliken signed Public Act 164, which created the Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs, the office on Spanish-Speaking Affairs and the interagency on Spanish-Speaking Affairs. On August 23, 2010, the governor and the legislature approved Public Act 146 (which updated public Act 164: 1.), changing the name to the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan.
Contact Us
Phone: 517-230-7906
Submit an email