Flint’s leaders and members of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) gathered for an important roundtable discussion, focused on advancing policy recommendations that could transform the lives of Black Michiganders. The conversation was rooted in a deep understanding of the barriers that have long hindered Black communities and was driven by a commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive Michigan. The topic at hand wasn’t new, but the stakes were as high as ever—how to dismantle the systemic barriers that continue to hold back Black communities in Michigan.
BLAC, convened by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in late 2020, was formed with a clear mission: to identify and dismantle the barriers that Black Michiganders face in education, community safety, health, and business leadership. Over the past year, BLAC members have met with subject matter experts, conducted research, and engaged in community analysis to develop a set of policy recommendations that reflect the most pressing needs of Black communities across the state.
“Ensuring we have a diverse group of voices at the table to inform state government is key to creating a more inclusive, equitable state,” said Kim Trent, Deputy Director of Prosperity for Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and lead staffer for BLAC. Her words highlighted the council’s dedication to making sure that the voices of Black Michiganders are not only heard but acted upon at the highest levels of state government.
The 2024 report from BLAC includes eight major policy recommendations, each designed to address systemic inequities and create lasting change. Among these recommendations is the adoption of pay transparency laws, aimed at advancing economic equity by ensuring that workers, especially those in Black communities, are paid fairly. Another critical recommendation calls for statutory changes in education funding, specifically advocating for an increase in the School Aid Fund revenue by at least $6 billion. This would establish a permanent weighted funding formula based on student and community needs, including universal early education for children aged 0-3.
Dr. Donna L. Bell, Co-Chair of BLAC, emphasized the importance of these recommendations, noting that they represent tangible steps toward addressing long-standing inequities. “BLAC members have worked diligently to identify priorities within Black communities and are confident the recommendations to Gov. Whitmer outline tangible steps to address systemic inequities and break down barriers in education, community safety, health, and business,” she said.
The report also tackles the critical shortage of Black professionals in Michigan, particularly within the mental health care sector. Addressing these inequities requires a comprehensive approach that combines administrative policy changes with legislative actions tailored to Michigan’s specific needs. Another recommendation involves creating review boards in underserved areas to address developmental delays in children, ensuring that policies do not inadvertently harm low-income and racially diverse communities.
BLAC is also advocating for the passage of the Policing Improvement Package, which includes House Bills 4605 and 4606. These bills would establish a “Public Safety and Violence Prevention Fund” to distribute money from sales tax revenue to cities, villages, townships, and counties for public safety measures based on local crime levels. Additionally, BLAC is calling for the reinstatement of Community Violence Intervention legislation and an increase in funding to address the pervasive issue of community violence, particularly in cities like Detroit.
Cultural recognition and retention of Black talent are also central to BLAC’s recommendations. The council is proposing a proclamation for African Day on May 25, believing that recognition from the Governor would increase awareness and engagement with African culture in Michigan. Furthermore, BLAC is advocating for increased funding to the Michigan Arts Council to create new programming and fellowship opportunities aimed at retaining Black talent in the state.
Christopher Burtley, Co-Chair of BLAC, underscored the report’s overarching goal: “The report and each of the Council’s recommendations were developed with this goal top of mind: to build a more equitable state where Black communities can thrive. We have collaborated with experts from industries and community organizations across the state and look forward to building on our progress tackling key issues that impact our communities.”
The roundtable in Flint marked the first of several statewide events designed to showcase BLAC’s 2024 report and engage local partners in the effort to support Black Michiganders. The discussions highlighted the positive social and economic impact these recommendations could have on communities like Flint, where systemic inequities have long determined the futures of many residents.
“Race, income, and zip code should not determine children’s destinies in Michigan. Unfortunately, they continue to predict the outcomes of children in communities like ours,” said Ja’Nel Jamerson, CEO of the Flint Center for Educational Excellence. His statement echoed the shared sentiment of those present: that these recommendations are not just proposals, but necessary actions to ensure that Flint, and other communities like it, are places where kids, families, schools, and communities can truly thrive.
The work of BLAC is far from finished, but the steps being taken now represent a significant move toward a more equitable Michigan. The council’s recommendations offer a path forward that prioritizes the needs and voices of Black Michiganders, paving the way for a future where every community has the opportunity to prosper. The commitment of Flint’s leaders and those across the state to these recommendations signals a new chapter in the fight for racial equity, one that is rooted in action and guided by the voices of those who know the stakes best.
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