Capitol & Community Updates: Black History Month, Warming Centers and Upcoming Community Conversation

Dear Neighbor,

As you know, February is Black History Month. This is a time for us to reflect upon who came before us, the struggle that they endured to get us to where we are today, and the importance of acknowledging what is yet to come — and aiming ourselves steadfastly toward that purpose. As one of Michigan’s Black legislators, I’ve experienced first-hand the added pressure and responsibility that comes with being in a position of authority as a person of color, and I know that there is truth in the adage that we must work twice as hard to get half as far. My service has always been aimed at closing that opportunity gap so that future generations can more readily attain their goals regardless of background.

I encourage you to reflect upon the meaning of Black History Month in the coming weeks, and how the lessons of Black resistance and the fight for civil rights may be applied to our contemporary lives. As you begin to plan the month ahead, I wanted to share some information that I think you may find helpful.

In service,

Jason Hoskins, M.P.A., J.D.

State Representative

Michigan’s 18th House District

In this issue:

• Community Events
  • City of Southfield Black History Month Events
• Oakland County Warming Centers
• Openings Available to Serve on One of the Governor’s State Boards or Commissions
• Upcoming Community Conversation – Feb. 23

The City of Southfield is hosting several events for Black History Month with the goal of showcasing community talent and bringing residents together in celebration of Black history. With events running throughout the entire month of February, there is sure to be something for everyone. Whether you attend the Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers performance later this month, dine at the Black History Month senior luncheon, or prefer the Super Saturday Black History Fun with Ber-Henda Williams children’s event, I look forward to seeing you throughout our community in celebration of Black History Month! More information about Black History Month events being hosted by the City of Southfield can be found on the City of Southfield’s website.

Michigan has experienced many extremely cold days recently, which is why I want to re-share some information about the warming center locations that are accessible to the community throughout Oakland County if you need help staying warm.

As a reminder, these facilities are only open during severe weather events, and operational facilities will be marked in green when they are open and operational. Most sites are not open 24 hours a day.

You can find an operational warming center near you at: OakGov.com/warming-and-cooling-centers.

The governor is inviting community members to apply for available appointments on more than 240 state boards and commissions. If you are a teacher, health care worker, small business owner or community advocate, your voice and experience are relevant and can have an impact on the future of our state. Examples of available appointment opportunities include:

• Labor and Economic Opportunity/Workforce Development
• Public Health Advisory/Health and Human Services
• Environmental Protections and Climate Solutions
• Housing, Construction, and Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
• Public Safety, Justice, and Veterans’ Affairs

Positions are already available for applications, with others expected throughout the remainder of 2025.

Website: www.michigan.gov/appointments
Questions? Email: [email protected]

Residents of our community are invited to our upcoming in-person community conversations. We will share a legislative update and answer your questions about the issues facing our state and communities. Staff from our offices will be joining us as well to connect with constituents who may need assistance. Please watch for emails from us in case of cancellation or rescheduling.

Southfield Area Community Conversation

Date/Time: Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Location: Southfield Public Library (26300 Evergreen Road, Southfield, MI 48076)

Special Guests: State Sen. Jeremy Moss and state Reps. Samantha Steckloff and Natalie Price.

My team is excited to continue working on your behalf throughout this legislative session. Hearing your input on legislation and current issues is invaluable, and my office is here to help if you need assistance with a state department or local resources.

You can contact my office at [email protected] or (517) 373-1180. To stay up to date with my work to represent you in the Michigan Legislature, I encourage you to check out my Facebook page and my website, or you can go to legislature.mi.gov for information on any legislation of interest.