COMMUNITY INFORMATION: Governor Whitmer Anti-Hate Letter and Resources

The Saginaw Intermediate School District and superintendents from across Michigan have received an important letter from Governor Whitmer that highlights the critical importance of fostering unity and respect in the face of growing instances of hate crimes and discrimination. Sharing on behalf of the Governor's Office, we are disseminating this letter along with a set of valuable resources.

LETTER

Dear Superintendent,

Hate has no place in Michigan.

Our state thrives because of its diversity, and we are at our best when we bring people together and support each other through difficult times.

As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, we cannot forget the values that make Michigan strong. We respect our neighbors. We have each other's backs. We believe every Michigander should be able to make their voice heard without fear of violence or threats. We can have difficult, constructive conversations rooted in respect without losing sight of what unites us.

Unfortunately, we are seeing rising Islamophobia, anti-Arab discrimination, and antisemitism on our campuses. We cannot stand for it. We believe in the dignity and value of every person, no matter who they are, how they pray, or where they come from. In tough times, those values are more important than ever, and we must remember that our kids are watching us.

I encourage every student to get involved on campus, in their communities, and stand up for what they believe in while standing up for each other. That is what being an American has always been about: freedom of speech and freedom to peaceably assemble. Young people have always been on the forefront of these conversations. They want to make their voices heard.

At our best, we honor our differences, and as educational leaders in our state, I encourage you to do the same as you stay vigilant and informed. Our responsibility is the same—the safety of students and faculty on campus. I am confident that we will continue to work together to have a successful, productive school year while living up to our highest values.

On the next page, you will find helpful resources from the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and the Michigan State Police Office of School Safety.

Together, I know we can continue seeing each other's humanity and remember who we are at our best—a state defined by its tolerance, diversity, and respect. We will always fight for our students and families, and we will build a stronger, brighter future for Michigan.

Sincerely,

Gretchen Whitmer
Governor of Michigan

RESOURCES

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL RIGHTS

FILE A COMPLAINT

If the incident falls under the laws we enforce and occurred within 180 days, MDCR will prepare a formal complaint for you to sign before a notary public and return to MDCR. Once MDCR receives your notarized complaint, it is placed on the docket and a copy is sent to you (the claimant) and the person or organization you filed the complaint against (the respondent.) MDCR will then conduct an impartial investigation of all available evidence. You can file a complaint online or by calling 1-800-482-3604.

Phone: 313-456-3700

Fax: 313-456-3701

Toll-Free: 800-482-3604

TTY: 877-878-8464

Email: MDCRServiceCenter@michigan.gov

MICHIGAN ALLIANCE AGAINST HATE CRIMES

The Michigan Alliance Against Hate Crimes (MIAAHC) was created by the United States Department of Justice, United States Attorneys' Offices in Michigan, and the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and Department of Civil Rights. MIAAHC is a statewide coalition of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, civil rights organizations, community-based groups, educators, and anti-violence advocates working to ensure a complete and effective response to hate crimes and bias incidents.

For support or resources, or to get involved, contact MIAAHC at MDCR-MIAAHC@michigan.gov.

OK2SAY – MICHIGAN STUDENT SAFETY PROGRAM
https://www.michigan.gov/ok2sa...

MICHIGAN STATE POLICE OFFICE OF SCHOOL SAFETY