Hero Story

Roland Hwang's life has been dedicated to a profound sense of service, embodying the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion long before these concepts gained widespread recognition in our nation's collective consciousness. From a tender age of 5, he accompanied his parents, esteemed leaders in the Chinese-American community, to the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit. There, he engaged with newly arrived immigrants and refugees from all corners of the globe, immersing himself in the vibrant tapestry of their visual and performing arts, and becoming familiar with the symphony of languages spoken worldwide.

Roland's early experiences at the International Institute sensitized him to the needs, dreams, and hardships of those who chose Detroit as their new home, passing through the doors of this vital, now 103-year-old institution. Deeply moved, he became a tireless advocate, devoting himself as a lifelong "laborer in the fields" by founding, co-founding, and supporting various Asian and Pacific American organizations. His contributions span countless hours dedicated to the advancement of causes, including but not limited to:

OCA Asian Pacific American Advocates (2016-2022 Vice President)
American Citizens for Justice, Inc. (1983-present, President, Vice President)
Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion (2006-2014)
New Detroit (2002-2010 Executive Board)
United Way of Southeastern Michigan (1994-2000 Allocation Committee)
Association of Chinese Americans (1972-present, President, Secretary, and Executive Board)
State Bar of Michigan Public Outreach Committee (1996-2000) – Led efforts for legal milestones in Murphy's Dissent and the Vincent Chin Case
State Bar of Michigan Board of Commissioners (1994-1997 Budget and Operations Oversight)
National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (1993-94 and 1996-98 Central Region Governor)
State Bar Foundation (1984-present)
Michigan Asian Pacific American Bar Association (1984-present, President 1985)
Northville School Board (2014-2022 President, Vice-President)
Michigan Governor's Advisory Council on Asian Pacific American Affairs (1986-1990, 2005-2009)
Attorney General's Hate Crime Prevention Task Force (2002 appointed by then AG, later Governor Jennifer Granholm)
Michigan State Advisory Committee to the US Commission on Civil Rights (1990-2006, and 2017-2020 Chair and Co-Chair)
Michigan Department of Civil Rights Hearing Referee (1987)

Roland Hwang's unwavering commitment to public service and his extensive involvement in numerous esteemed organizations speak volumes about his character, integrity, and dedication to building a more inclusive society. His impact is felt in the lives of countless individuals, communities, and institutions across Michigan and beyond.