The Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs Commission (CMEAA) is a liaison between Michigan’s Arab and Chaldean American communities and state government.

Vision: Our vision is to create a Michigan where Arab and Chaldean Americans are fully recognized, respected, and integrated into the state’s cultural, social, and economic life, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and prosperity for all.

Mission: The Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs advances Michigan's Arab and Chaldean American communities through policies that promote equity, cultural preservation, and a competitive global workforce. Through policy advocacy, public education, and community engagement, CMEAA ensures Arab and Chaldean American communities are empowered, celebrated, and represented at all levels of government.

CMEAA advocates for Michigan's Arab and Chaldean American communities by advancing policies that promote equity, cultural preservation, and social inclusion. Through legislative

advocacy, public education, and community engagement, CMEAA empowers, celebrates, and ensures these communities are represented at all levels of government.

The Commission’s Charge

The Commission shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor and the Director and shall undertake the following responsibilities:

• Review and Advise on Policies: Review and provide recommendations to the Governor and the Director regarding state policies affecting the Middle Eastern American community.
• Assess Issues and Priorities: Examine and offer advice on the nature, scope, and priorities of issues impacting the Middle Eastern American community in the state.
• Monitor and Recommend Programs: Continuously monitor, evaluate, and investigate programs that impact the Middle Eastern American community, and propose initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of this group.
• Recommend Changes to State Programs and Policies: Advise the Governor and the Director on necessary changes to state programs, statutes, regulations, and policies, with an emphasis on coordinating state programs serving the Middle Eastern American community.
• Develop Policy and Action Plans: Recommend policies and actionable plans to address the needs of Middle Eastern Americans in Michigan.
• Recognize Contributions: Acknowledge and celebrate the history, achievements, and contributions of Michigan's Middle Eastern American community.
• Combat Discrimination: Offer recommendations to the Governor and Director on methods to address and overcome discrimination against Middle Eastern Americans.
• Promote Cultural Awareness: Advocate for greater public awareness of Middle Eastern American culture and heritage.
• Provide Advisory Support: Supply additional information and guidance on Middle Eastern American concerns, as requested by the Governor or Director.
• Promote Equal Access: Work towards ensuring equal access to state services for Middle Eastern Americans.
• Issue Reports and Recommendations: Regularly issue reports addressing the issues outlined in Section III and provide recommendations to the Governor or Director at designated times.
• Encourage Civic Engagement: Promote the involvement of Middle Eastern Americans in government at all levels.

Navigation Links:

• History of Commission
• Commissioner Bios
• CMEAA News
• Bylaws
• Understanding Hate/Bias Incidents vs. Civil Rights Violations