In this day and age, too many are focused on what divides us rather than what unites us. We are all Americans, first and foremost. I think it is very important that we are open to listen to one another, to try to understand other perspectives and find common ground. That’s what the MAC coalition does. It provides a forum where we can have real and honest conversations – an exchange of ideas. We respect and learn from each other and work together on issues that matter to Southeast Michigan.
~ Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Michigan 12th District; MAC Co-Chair
MAC is what you make of it. There is a tremendous need for intellectual debate, compromise and solutions for today’s society. I have found MAC the place where I can “speak my mind,” listen to opposing viewpoints, and often come out with solutions for the public good.
~ John Rakolta, Jr., US Ambassador, United Arab Emirates; Past MAC Co-Chair
The Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) is an organization that brings leaders from across the Southeast Michigan region together to actively work on tough issues. The MAC Mission Statement reads, “The Metropolitan Affairs Coalition is a unique public/private partnership dedicated to improving Greater Detroit’s quality of life and creating economic opportunity through regional cooperation.” Regional cooperation is a very difficult task. Those who serve at MAC understand difficult conversations about differences of opinion can bring about significant change. I represent the Oakland County Executive, L. Brooks Patterson, on the MAC Board. I am driven by the “why” and not the “what” when it comes to how we all can make a difference. The challenging debate and the ability to achieve important consensus decisions are the reasons why I believe in our participation.
~ Phil Bertolini, Deputy County Executive/Chief Information Officer, Oakland County (Retired); Past MAC Vice Chair
Tackling tough issues. Being outspoken with your ideas and concerns. Learning from others. Forging strong policy statements. This is MAC. One of the rare forums where business, labor, government, education, and community leaders gather regularly to do this work. And given who is at the table, when MAC speaks, many listen.
~ David Hecker, President, AFT Michigan; MAC Secretary
In this day and age, too many are focused on what divides us rather than what unites us. We are all Americans, first and foremost. I think it is very important that we are open to listen to one another, to try to understand other perspectives and find common ground. That’s what the MAC coalition does. It provides a forum where we can have real and honest conversations – an exchange of ideas. We respect and learn from each other and work together on issues that matter to Southeast Michigan.
~ Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Michigan 12th District; MAC Co-Chair