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Initiatives and Activities

Strategic Initiative Groups:
The Work of Our Commissions and Global Michigan’s Strategic Priorities

Office of Global Michigan strategic planning priorities are intricately aligned with the initiatives of our Commissions. Each commission is structured into specialized subcommittees known as Strategic Initiative Groups. These groups operate as dedicated working teams, each focusing on specific areas critical to advancing Global Michigan’s mission.

Groups are organized into three core areas:

  1. Community Engagement: responsible for fostering meaningful interactions and building strong relationships with diverse communities. It focuses on outreach, engagement strategies, and creating opportunities for community input and collaboration.
  2. Operations: concentrates on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the commission’s internal processes. It addresses strategic planning, resource management, governance practices, and operational support to ensure smooth and impactful functioning.
  3. Advocacy:  dedicated to driving legislative and policy changes that benefit Michigan’s diverse communities. It works on identifying key issues, developing advocacy strategies, and mobilizing support to influence policy and advance equity and inclusion.

The Strategic Initiative Group model provides a structured approach through which commissions implement strategic initiatives, ensuring their activities are in harmony with the overarching strategic plan. By focusing on these priority areas, they play a crucial role in achieving the strategic goals of the Office of Global Michigan and advancing its mission.   

Advocacy Strategic Initiative Group

The Advocacy Strategic Initiative Group plays a pivotal role in shaping and advancing legislative priorities that address the needs and aspirations of Michigan’s diverse communities. By focusing on key activities designed to influence policy reform and legislative action, the Advocacy Group ensures the voices of marginalized groups are heard and acted upon.

Legislative Priorities: Each year, the Commission identifies legislative priorities that align with broader goals of equity, inclusion, and opportunity. This ensures these priorities are effectively represented in the legislative process, advocating for impactful change.

Legislative Advocacy Day: The Commissions organize an annual event where Commissioners come together to advocate for their community’s needs and priorities. This crucial event aims to raise awareness about pressing issues, propose actionable solutions, and influence legislative agendas across the state. Preparation includes coordinating with legislators, developing comprehensive advocacy materials, and ensuring effective representation of community concerns.

Operations Strategic Initiative Group

The Operations Strategic Initiative Group is dedicated to fostering the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of the Commission. By focusing on strategic planning, resource optimization, and capacity building, the Group ensures the Commission remains robust and impactful for the next 50+ years, driving equity, inclusion and successful outcomes for Michigan’s diverse communities.

Listening Sessions and Town Hall Conversations: MAPAAC can facilitate open spaces for community leaders to share statements on behalf of their communities, providing a platform for genuine community voices. Town Halls are designed to foster dialogue between community members, leaders, state departments, and commissioners, prioritizing information sharing and relationship building.

Needs Assessment Surveys: MAPAAC is committed to advocating for our communities' needs and amplifying their voices. By sharing your thoughts and feedback, you'll help us better understand the challenges and opportunities our communities face. Take the Michigan Asian American Pacific Islander Needs Assessment Survey!

Community Engagement Strategic Initiative Group

The Engagement Strategic Initiative Group is committed to strengthening community bonds and promoting unity and shared prosperity among Michigan’s diverse populations. This Group spearheads and manages a range of activities designed to foster cultural understanding, educational empowerment, community building, and strategic partnerships.

Recognizing and Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month, Lunar New Year, and more: Organizing and promoting cultural events, festivals, and celebrations is a vital aspect of highlighting the rich diversity within Michigan’s communities. Partnering with local organizations to plan and host these events is crucial to ensure wide participation.

Working through Partner Organizations: Establishing structured opportunities for engagement with stakeholders who are not traditionally served by funded partners, identifying potential partner organizations that align with the commission’s goals, developing detailed engagement plans and regularly assessing the impact of these partnerships are key components of this approach.

Interested in working with MAPAAC? Contact Samantha Loo, MAPAAC Administrator, at looS@michigan.gov.