Public service isn’t just measured by the offices a person holds, but by the impact they make long before they enter the spotlight. For decades, Angelique Peterson-Mayberry has been doing the work that strengthens communities – advocating for workers, supporting students, building inclusive workplaces, and creating opportunities for families. Her election to the Wayne County Commission represents a continuation of a lifetime dedicated to service, accountability, and progress.
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Angelique Peterson-Mayberry for Wayne County Commissioner in District 5 because she brings the experience, relationships, and proven leadership necessary to represent one of Detroit’s most important districts.
Peterson-Mayberry’s story is deeply connected to the communities she serves. A lifelong Detroiter and third-generation UAW autoworker, she learned the value of advocacy and collective action at an early age. At just 25 years old, she made history as the youngest and first African American woman elected Trustee of UAW Local 245, beginning a leadership journey that would span nearly three decades in the labor movement and corporate sector. Her work with UAW included roles as Employee Resource Coordinator, Women’s Committee Chairperson, Certified Diversity Facilitator, and International UAW Ford Community Relations Director.
That experience gave Peterson-Mayberry a unique understanding of how economic opportunity, workplace equity, and community investment are connected. During her career at Ford Motor Company, she served in leadership roles focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, including Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager for Manufacturing and Executive Program Director for the National Joint DEI Ford Department. Her work helped shape policies affecting employees across one of the world’s largest automotive companies.
Her commitment to education has been equally significant. Peterson-Mayberry served more than eight years on the Detroit Public Schools Community District Board of Education, including as board president, where she helped guide decisions affecting more than 50,000 students, educators, and families. During her tenure, she worked on issues involving student success, district accountability, and the long-term direction of Detroit’s public education system.
In 2025, Peterson-Mayberry was appointed to the Wayne County Commission’s District 5 seat following the passing of longtime Commissioner Irma Clark-Coleman. Her appointment reflected the confidence of county leaders who recognized the value of her experience in education, labor, corporate leadership, and community advocacy.
Since joining the Commission, Peterson-Mayberry has taken on responsibilities that directly impact county operations and residents’ quality of life. She serves on the Audit Committee, Government Operations Committee, Public Safety, Judiciary and Homeland Security Committee, and Economic Development Committee. These assignments place her at the center of oversight, public safety, fiscal accountability, and economic growth decisions affecting Wayne County residents.
Her record also reflects a commitment to recognizing and uplifting the people who make communities stronger. As commissioner, Peterson-Mayberry has introduced resolutions honoring long-time public servants, community leaders, and residents whose actions have made a difference throughout Wayne County. Her leadership style emphasizes that government should not only create policy but also celebrate and support the people who sustain communities every day.
Peterson-Mayberry has earned recognition throughout her career, including the Michigan Chronicle’s Woman of Excellence Award, the NAACP’s Great Expectations Award, United Way’s Woman of Influence and Volunteer of the Year honors, and the African American Leadership in Education Award. These distinctions reflect a consistent pattern of leadership built around service rather than recognition.
Wayne County’s 5th District deserves a commissioner who understands the connection between education, jobs, neighborhoods, and economic opportunity. Angelique Peterson-Mayberry has spent her life building bridges between those priorities. Her experience is extensive, her commitment is demonstrated, and her record shows a leader prepared to continue delivering for residents.
For these reasons, the Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Angelique Peterson-Mayberry for Wayne County Commissioner, District 5.
