The Michigan Advocacy Program embraces the values articulated in the Michigan Advocacy Program’s Mission and Values. MAP is committed to anti-racism in all aspects of our work.
MAP acknowledges that bias as well as institutional and structural racism exist in all individuals and shape our financial, civil justice and immigration systems increasing inequality. We denounce the policing and incarceration of people of color in the United States and recognize that these measures are rooted in racial oppression and serve to continue the criminalization of poverty.
We understand that neutral policies and practices can perpetuate and result in racial inequities, particularly in the legal system. We also recognize that actions that drive inequities may not be intentionally racist. By listening, learning and understanding more about racism on an individual and institutional level, we can better inform the way our organization functions and help dismantle racism through our interactions with one another, community partners, and with clients.
We commit to continually learn about and discuss issues of race and institutional oppression with the goal that our learning be reflected in the culture of MAP as a program. We also commit to communicate the ways in which racism affects the communities we serve. We commit to the ongoing development of structures for accountability to our clients and community partners. We believe these commitments to be more relevant than ever to the service and safety of our client communities.
Through our action, we strive to eliminate racism, which harms people, programs, and systems.
We remain committed to advancing racial justice in solidarity with Black communities, Indigenous people and all people of color across Michigan through our individual client representation, advocacy, and community partnerships. Our offices will work to ensure our communities have just and fair access to the Courts, safe and affordable housing, educational and employment opportunities.
We understand that anti-racism is our responsibility and a necessary element of our work to ensure our clients and their families are able to thrive. Our work must include dismantling the structures and systems that allow and perpetuate racism.