About us
The Governor’s Commission on Caribbean Affairs was created in 2012 (Md. Code Regs. 01.01.2012.11 - PDF - 87.47 KB), making Maryland the first state of the country in union to create such a commission. Nowadays, under the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives (GOCI) the Commission on Caribbean Community Affairs continues working on engaging individuals and organizations in the Caribbean community to partner with the state to encourage housing, education (work development), community, health, and business & economic development interests.
In 2019, the state of Maryland annually designated each August as the Caribbean Heritage Month by House Bill 893 - PDF in recognition of the contributions that the Caribbean American community has brought to our state Senate Bill 472 / CH220 - PDF. Designating August as the official Maryland Caribbean Heritage Month is a remembrance of the Emancipation Proclamation of many Caribbean islands, such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and other territories that commemorate this month.
Commission role in Maryland
- Elevates priorities from Caribbean communities across Maryland
- Encourages civic participation and community engagement
- Advises state leadership on community needs and opportunities
- Strengthens cultural, economic, and educational connections
Our mission
The Maryland Governor’s Commission on Caribbean Affairs serves as a trusted advisory body to the Governor and State agencies, advancing policies, partnerships, and programs that promote the civic, economic, educational, and cultural well-being of Maryland’s Caribbean community. The Commission works to amplify Caribbean voices, strengthen diaspora engagement, and foster inclusive growth that benefits both Maryland and the Caribbean region.
Our vision
We envision a Maryland where Caribbean heritage is fully recognized as a vital force in the State’s prosperity, where Caribbean-American communities thrive across generations, and where Maryland stands as a national model for meaningful diaspora engagement, cultural respect, and global partnership with the Caribbean.
Administrative Director
Silvia Decja
[email protected]