Arielle Johnson was appointed by Mayor Mike Duggan and unanimously confirmed by the Human Rights Commission to serve as the Deputy Director of the Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity Department (CRIO) for the City of Detroit.
Johnson, 29, received her bachelor’s degree at Michigan State University and her master’s in public administration from the University of Michigan Dearborn. She is also the founder and CEO of FIERCE Empowerment (Female Icons Encouraging Real Concepts of Empowerment), a non-profit organization established with the aim to connect women with tools and resources.
The Deputy Director is appointed by the mayor and works under the direction of the director, responsible for the overall management and operations of the Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity Deputy Director.
The CRIO’s mission is to provide excellent service to all who live, work, play or do business in Detroit, advocating for inclusion and increased opportunities resulting in a positive impact in the city.
Comprised of four teams within the CRIO Department – Incentives, Construction Outreach, Detroit Business Opportunity Program, and Civil Rights — each team performs tasks essential for ensuring Detroit remains an equitable and inclusive city.
Charity Dean currently serves as the City of Detroit’s Director for its Department of Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity, replacing Portia Roberson in 2018. Detroit’s civil rights department is the oldest of its kind nationwide, marking 76 years of service.
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