Commission on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Michigan Judiciary releases strategic plan

The Commission on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Michigan Judiciary (DEI Commission) last Thursday released a strategic plan to guide its work going forward. Co-chaired by Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth M. Welch and Michigan Court of Appeals Judge Cynthia Stephens (retired), the DEI Commission was created by Administrative Order 2022-1, which charged them to work toward “the elimination of demographic and other disparities within the Michigan judiciary and justice system.”

The plan was developed after much discussion, public input, and research, and the DEI Commission is now seeking feedback via a written survey by Friday, December 22, 2023. The public may also provide feedback during the Commission’s virtual public meeting (registration required) on Friday, Dec. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m.

The strategic plan highlights five key strategic objectives and details 17 recommendations to achieve them:

• Community – Those served by the justice system are heard valued and respected.

• Talent – A judicial workforce that reflects the communities served.

• Value & Connection – Judicial employees experience high morale, high retention rates, and opportunities for growth.

• Judicial Vitality – Pathways to judgeship and judge leadership are more inclusive, varied, and transparent.

• Alignment – Equity initiatives are coordinated and supported within judicial systems across Michigan.

In their letter introducing the plan, the co-chairs asked the public “to support their local courts as they develop implementation plans, and to join us in working together toward building a judiciary that reflects Michigan’s diversity and is trusted by all.”

Additional information about the DEI Commission is available at www.courts.michigan.gov/administration/special-initiatives/diversity,-equity,-and-inclusion.