Kenya Lowe Chosen to Lead MDCR’s Division on Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing

Lansing, MI-The Michigan Department of Civil Rights has named Kenya Lowe as Director of the Division on Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (DODDBHH). Lowe will begin her leadership of the Division on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

"We are fortunate to have someone with Ms. Lowe's experience and connections at the helm of the Division," said John E. Johnson, Jr., Executive Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. "The Department is committed to continuing our long history of support for the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing communities in Michigan, and we expect Ms. Lowe to excel in this position."

With over two decades of leadership experience, Kenya is a passionate advocate, educator, and community builder committed to advancing accessibility and equity for Michigan's Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing populations. She brings extensive expertise in program management, legislative analysis, and community engagement to her position as DODDBHH Director. At AT&T, she spearheaded initiatives to expand telecommunication access for the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing (D/DB/HH) communities, ensuring compliance with state and federal standards. As Outreach Staff Manager at the Michigan Relay Center, she led training programs, strengthened advocacy partnerships, and enhanced service delivery through collaborative efforts. Her work has shaped inclusive policies and services at both the state and national levels.

"I am excited to lead the Division on Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing and look forward to fostering collaboration, driving systemic change, and ensuring D/DB/HH communities have access to the resources, representation, and support they deserve," said Lowe. "I am committed to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all Michiganders."

The Division on Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing, part of MDCR's Division on Disability Rights and Compliance, concentrates on helping to improve the lives of Michigan's deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing citizens. Their mission is affirming the indisputable right of persons who are Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing to secure effective communication. The Division has the support of a 13-member Advisory Council, of which a minimum of seven members must be Deaf, DeafBlind or Hard of Hearing. Members are appointed by the Governor and serve three-year terms.

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights is charged with investigating and resolving discrimination complaints and works to prevent discrimination through educational programs that promote voluntary compliance with civil rights laws. The Department also provides information and services to businesses on diversity initiatives and equal employment law. Find more information on the Michigan Department of Civil Rights website.

Find a photo of Kenya Lowe here: Kenya Lowe, Director of DODDBHH | A close-up portrait of Ken… | Flickr

Image Description: A portrait of Kenya Lowe, a black woman with long, dark hair. She is wearing a black blazer over a pink blouse with a tie detail at the neckline. Her expression is calm. The background is neutral and slightly blurred, keeping the focus on her face.

Note to editors:
1. In the title of the Division, both the "D" and "B" in the word "DeafBlind" are capitalized.
2. The phrase "hearing impaired" is considered offensive. Instead, it is appropriate to use the words, "deaf", "deafblind", and "hard of hearing."

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