Business and political leaders will gather on Michigan’s Mackinac Island for the annual Mackinac Policy Conference from May 30 to June 2. The conference aims to generate new policy ideas to address challenges such as child care and housing affordability. The theme of this year’s conference is “the Power of &” and will focus on an “and” approach to policy solutions instead of an “either or” approach. The conference will feature nationally-recognized speakers such as former Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, and CNN’s Fareed Zakaria. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan will also deliver keynote addresses. The conference will include panel discussions on topics such as inclusive policymaking, talent, and business equity objectives.
Michigan’s Mackinac Island is set to host the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference from May 30 to June 2. The annual conference brings together business and political leaders to generate new policy ideas aimed at addressing a range of challenges, from child care to housing affordability.
This year’s conference theme is “the Power of &,” which aims to promote an “and” approach to policy solutions, rather than an “either or” approach. The conference will feature nationally-recognized speakers, including former Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, and CNN’s Fareed Zakaria. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan will also deliver keynote addresses during the event.
Who’s Attending?
The conference will bring together Michigan’s state lawmakers, congressional delegation, government officials, leaders in the private sector, and academics to attend panel discussions and network on the island. Along with Governor Whitmer and Mayor Duggan, other statewide elected officeholders plan to attend the conference, including Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. Michigan’s congressional delegation will also be in attendance, including U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow and several U.S. Representatives.
In light of the recent report by a list of attendees, 101 out of Michigan’s 148 state lawmakers are planning to attend the conference with bipartisan representation from both chambers of the state Legislature.
What’s on the Agenda?
The conference agenda includes keynote addresses and panel discussions featuring more than 90 speakers. The events will take stock of how Michigan is faring on a range of issues, from its transition to electric vehicles to preventing gun violence. Conference organizers hope that the program will inspire new ideas for political and business leaders to take back home, with prompts to consider at least one change that can be implemented immediately, along with how leaders will gauge their success.
Panel discussions at the conference will cover a range of topics, including “Bridging Divides With Inclusive Policymaking,” “How Gen Z is Changing the Game From Strategy to Policy,” “Talent Today & Tomorrow,” and “The Intersection of Business & Equity Objectives.”
The Mackinac Policy Conference is an important event for Michigan’s business and political leaders, providing a platform to discuss and generate new policy ideas to address the state’s challenges. With a focus on an “and” approach to policy solutions, the conference aims to promote collaboration and inspire leaders to take action to create positive change in Michigan.
Photo Credit: detroitchamber.com
