Inclusion & Diversity

Michigan has a long history with Native American communities and traditions. There are 12 federally recognized tribes of Indigenous peoples in Michigan. Many of the state’s natural wonders and historical sites have a history within the Native American cultures predating the state of Michigan.

November is Native American Heritage Month. These Michigan sites and landmarks celebrate the rich and important history of Native Americans. Check out this list of Native American-owned businesses to support as well.

Supporting Black-owned businesses should not be only a trend, but a year-round endeavor to be allies to everyone in our communities.

Access to beaches and waterfront spaces is improving across Michigan as state parks and city beaches become places that people of all abilities can navigate.

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African History is putting on its 41st annual African World Festival, July 12 to 14. Come celebrate African beauty, strength, and culture at Hart Plaza, Detroit. This three-day festival features more than 100 vendors, local and international performers, and countless opportunities for family fun.

Metro Detroiters can meaningfully celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Detroit in a multitude of ways, from festivals to special dinners to educational events.

Festivals, parades and family-friendly activities are all on tap as Pride events fill up the summer calendar across Michigan in 2024.

For people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, spaces that are too-bright or too-loud can be painfully overwhelming. Sensory-friendly activities can help.

Saginaw native Sammie Telder doesn’t miss many pitches, swings or catches during the 162-game regular season. She can't wait to see how her Tigers perform this year.

Visit some of these unique Michigan gems that tell the story of African-American contributions to our state’s cultural history.

This list of 50 Black-owned restaurants in the Metro Detroit area need to be on your radar, if they're not already. How many have you eaten at?

These historic Detroit sites and landmarks document both the triumphs and hardships of Black Americans who have ties to the city.

The city of Detroit has a deep connection to the civil rights movement – especially to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Here are some of the major ways King influenced the civil rights movement in the Motor City, according to the Detroit Historical Society.

What is the importance of Nov. 11, and what does it have to do with military service? Veterans Day, a federal holiday, is marked each year on Nov. 11. On that day, we honor and thank all those who are currently or have been a part of our United States Armed Forces.

Lucia Rios has spent her entire life learning about spina bifida, the disorder she was born with – and she’s still finding out new information.

Celebrating the cultures, achievements and traditions of the Hispanic community, Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15.

Adaptive kayak launches offer easy in and out designs for paddlers of all mobility levels. Here are some places to find them.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a wonderful way to learn more about this important culture and its contributions.

It’s a short, protected route on calm water. Ludington State Park’s new accessible water trail is set to open this summer.

Juanita Lillie, who is blind, says while she is happy to see a Bill of Rights for air travelers with disabilities, self-advocacy remains key. 

The Family Center offers information and connections to community-based resources for families of children with special health care needs.

A look at hearing loops in Michigan buildings, and why they can be so important.

Contributor Stephanie Munier Radant shares how she was met with support and kindness when she came out to her coworkers.

She/her or they/them? Inclusive pronouns are increasingly being used these days. Here’s what to know.

Enjoying waterfalls should be something everyone can do. Michigan has a couple great accessible waterfall locations in the Upper and Lower peninsulas.

Think it’s OK to poke fun at someone’s age? Think again. Age bias lurks in casual conversations and workplace discussions. Here’s how to stop adding to it.

Boating and fishing are popular pastimes in Michigan, and accessibility is driving improvements to fishing piers and boat launches across the state.

Educating yourself, being a good listener and supporting others are all key parts of being an accessibility ally on a college campus.

Electric track chairs at state parks have made trips to the beach and even enjoying a dip in the lake much more accessible to people in the last few years.

Bruce-Michael Wilson rarely was sick as a child. He attributes his healthy childhood to eating what was grown on his family’s Michigan farm.

If you or someone close to you needs easy-to-reach sites or trails at state campgrounds, or accessible fishing spots, here’s the best way to find them.

As the surge in travel and outdoor recreation continues, so do options for accessible spaces.

When you have a developmental disability, workplace issues can seem overwhelming. A company’s support can make all the difference.

Something as simple as entering a building can be downright dangerous for someone with a physical disability or other mobility issues.

Ways to honor and celebrate the memory of Martin Luther King, Jr. around the state.