The Michigan Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs (COSSA) is seeking public input through June 4, 2009, on its proposed 2009-2013 Strategic Plan, which it will present to Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. The draft plan and comment form is available on the COSSA Web site at: www.michigan.gov/cossa.

“We want to hear from the public since these are issues that affect the lives and future of all Hispanics in Michigan. The plan focuses on how we can achieve milestones in Economic Development, Education and Legislative Advocacy and Civic Engagement opportunities in Michigan,” said COSSA Chairperson Lawrence García.

COSSA was created in 1975 to serve Michigan’s Latino population, which is currently the second-largest and fastest-growing minority group in Michigan. The Commission is made up of 15 individuals appointed by the Governor to develop policies and plans to serve the needs of Latinos in Michigan.

García said, “COSSA’s proposed strategic plan outlines our goals through 2013 to help Michigan Hispanics on a variety of issues from making sound investments and entrepreneurship to developing leadership skills and academic excellence.”

To view the entire strategic plan and comment, visit www.michigan.gov/cossa. If you are unable to view the document via the Internet, call the COSSA office at (517) 373-8339 or email [email protected].