LANSING, Mich., Jan. 30, 2025 — This week, the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) elected new leadership. State Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) was named chair of the caucus. The caucus includes members of both the state Senate and the state House of Representatives, and it serves as a partnership between residents and legislators.
“I am blessed to be elected by my colleagues as chair of this caucus,” O’Neal said. “This opportunity is a great responsibility, especially as our country is undergoing divisive times. With the continued attacks on certain groups and diversity, equity and inclusion programs, we must continue to fight for justice and for the better world we want to live in. We must continue to educate the people around us — to teach them how to celebrate differences and embrace diversity. As chair, I won’t take this lightly and will continue to raise my voice addressing the systematic and blatant inequities.”
State Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint) was named executive vice chair; state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) and state Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) were named first vice chair and second vice chairs, respectively.
“This caucus seeks to bring equal opportunity,” Neeley said. “We all are change makers; we wouldn’t be at the Legislature if we weren’t. We are uplifting the voices of our neighborhoods — and all of the people who make up those wonderfully diverse communities. The disparities in our systems, whether it’s maternal health or our corrections, need more voices for change. We are speaking up for justice and your rights.”
Other leadership positions elected include state Rep. Jimmie Wilson, Jr. (D-Ypsilanti), secretary; state Rep. Kimberly Edwards (D-Eastpointe), treasurer; state Rep. Stephanie Young (D-Detroit), chaplain; state Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit), historian; and state Rep. Donavan Mckinney (D-Detroit), sergeant at arms.
Check out the MLBC website and follow the caucus on Facebook, Instagram and X for other updates and information.