Welcoming

Successful Michigan communities welcome all people. Research shows that a community’s local GDP growth is directly tied to how people feel about where they live. The more engaging, friendly, and welcoming a place is, the greater its economically vitality.

Seeing the benefits of inclusiveness early, in 1972 East Lansing became the first municipality in the nation to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in hiring practices. As of February 2014, more than 30 local governments across Michigan have adopted ordinances aimed at protecting the rights of individuals regardless of their sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.  For sample human rights ordinances from across the state, visit our MML Resources page.

Make your Case for Diversity

Start a conversation about encouraging a welcoming environment in your community. Here are some talking points to share with neighbors, organizations and local government officials:

• People feel more connected to their community if the place is friendly and welcoming to all, which increases GDP growth.
• Immigrant-owned businesses promote economic recovery and contribute to prosperity across the United States.
• Well-functioning cities require a commitment to equality.

Quick Stats

• Immigrants living in southeast Michigan are 150% more likely to have a four-year college degree than the non-immigrant population.
• In 2000, Michigan immigrant-owned businesses produced over $1.5 billion in annual business income.
• African- Americans are projected to have $1.1 trillion in buying power by 2015.

Additional Resources

A wide variety of resources on diversity are available on our Resources and Tools page.

Get Inspired

The following case studies show how Detroit residents have promoted a welcoming environment in their communities.

Clark Park Coalition  This grassroots, nonprofit coalition has grown to offer positive activities for nearly a thousand neighborhood youth each year.
Detroit City Futbol League The Detroit City Futbol League is a recreational, adult, co-ed soccer league based around neighborhoods. The league brings communities together in a fun and unique way while marketing different areas of the city.
Detroit Soup This grassroots initiative is a way to bring neighbors together to build relationships, share ideas and support local projects happening in the community.