Maryland Governor's Office of Community Initiatives

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The Maryland Governor's Office of Community Initiatives ( , ) is Governor 's community outreach arm to connect all Marylanders with resources and opportunities available in the state to thrive and empower themselves. Each year, GOCI joins over 700 events through more than 120 partners, and interacts with more than 70,000 Marylanders in person; coordinat

es with and advises the executive branch of Maryland government for improved community affairs; and oversees the governor’s seven ethnic and cultural commissions, an interfaith office, outreach office, as well as the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism (GOSV, ), Volunteer Maryland (VM, ), and the Banneker-Douglass Museum (BDM, ).

09/08/2026

Celebrating the rich traditions and vibrant art of our Middle Eastern communities! 🎶✨

Thanks to a generous grant from the Maryland 250 Commission, the Governor's Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs was proud to bring incredible Middle Eastern music and dance performances to the Washington Folk Festival.

From captivating rhythms to traditional storytelling through dance, these artists showcased the deep cultural tapestry that makes Maryland so special as we honor our shared history and vibrant future.

Press play to catch a glimpse of the magic on stage! 🎥👇

The Governor's Commission on Hispanic & Latin American Community Affairs stands in solidarity with Colombia. 🇨🇴❤️Our dee...
08/24/2026

The Governor's Commission on Hispanic & Latin American Community Affairs stands in solidarity with Colombia. 🇨🇴❤️

Our deepest condolences to the people of Colombia and to the many Maryland families with loved ones affected by the devastating earthquake of August 10.

Together, we stand with Colombia in solidarity, compassion, and hope.
Juntos, acompañamos a Colombia con solidaridad, compasión y esperanza. 🇨🇴🤝

Did You Know? 🌴In 2019, Maryland officially recognized August as Caribbean Heritage Month through legislation passed by ...
08/04/2026

Did You Know? 🌴

In 2019, Maryland officially recognized August as Caribbean Heritage Month through legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly. Since then, the state has celebrated the culture, history, and invaluable contributions of Caribbean Americans who continue to strengthen communities across Maryland.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Venezuela affected by the recent earthquakes. Please see the message ...
07/30/2026

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the people of Venezuela affected by the recent earthquakes. Please see the message from the Chair of the Governor's Commission on Hispanic & Latin American Community Affairs

Presented by the Governor’s Commission on African Affairs under the Maryland Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives,...
07/08/2026

Presented by the Governor’s Commission on African Affairs under the Maryland Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, join us for the African Diaspora Health Summit: Mind, Culture, Community: Redefining Mental Health for the African Diaspora.

This timely virtual conversation will explore how culture, identity, and lived experiences shape mental health across the African diaspora. Join moderators and panelists for an engaging discussion on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 12:00–2:00 PM (EST) via Zoom.

🔗 Register now: tinyurl.com/49hxfvy8

As we close out Caribbean Heritage Month, we honor the legacy of the late Ambassador Curtis Ward, a distinguished diplom...
06/30/2026

As we close out Caribbean Heritage Month, we honor the legacy of the late Ambassador Curtis Ward, a distinguished diplomat and devoted public servant who dedicated his career to advancing Caribbean voices and representation on the global stage.

Throughout his life and work, Ambassador Ward exemplified leadership, advocacy, and a deep commitment to international dialogue and Caribbean communities. His contributions continue to inspire those working in diplomacy, public service, and community engagement.

We are grateful for his legacy and the lasting impact he leaves behind.

This concludes our Caribbean Heritage Month Marylander spotlight series. Thank you for celebrating with us as we honored remarkable individuals throughout the month.

Today, we recognize Colette Winston-Carter, a Maryland-based communications professional, community advocate, mentor, an...
06/30/2026

Today, we recognize Colette Winston-Carter, a Maryland-based communications professional, community advocate, mentor, and children’s book author of Dominican heritage. With a background in public service and strategic communications across the federal government and education sectors, she has supported initiatives centered on engagement, outreach, leadership, and mentorship.

As the author of a Caribbean-American affirmations children’s book, Colette is passionate about creating culturally affirming stories that help children feel seen, confident, and empowered. A proud wife and mother, she remains committed to preserving Caribbean culture and uplifting future generations through storytelling and service.

Stay tuned as we continue highlighting remarkable Marylanders throughout the month.

Today, we recognize Dr. Maryam Gibson, a Jamaica-born Clinical Social Worker with Prince George’s County Public Schools,...
06/30/2026

Today, we recognize Dr. Maryam Gibson, a Jamaica-born Clinical Social Worker with Prince George’s County Public Schools, where she provides mental health support and case management to high school students facing emotional and behavioral challenges. She recently earned her Doctor of Social Work degree from Morgan State University, further strengthening her commitment to advocacy and service for marginalized communities.

With a career spanning school systems, mobile outreach, foster care, and private therapy, Dr. Gibson has consistently supported underserved populations through compassionate care and clinical expertise.

Beyond her professional work, she is a wife, mother, grandmother, and community advocate who volunteers in a community garden supporting seniors and individuals in need, and also provides counseling support to students in underserved communities in Jamaica.

Today, we recognize Isha M. Renta López, a Puerto Rico-born scientist, author, nonprofit leader, and cultural educator. ...
06/30/2026

Today, we recognize Isha M. Renta López, a Puerto Rico-born scientist, author, nonprofit leader, and cultural educator. As the founder and executive director of Semilla Cultural, she is dedicated to preserving the Afro-Puerto Rican tradition of Bomba while promoting cultural education throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

In addition to her work as a NOAA scientist, Isha is a passionate advocate for STEM education, mentoring future leaders and creating opportunities for women and underrepresented communities in science. Through her leadership, she continues to bridge science, culture, and community.

Stay tuned as we continue highlighting remarkable Marylanders throughout the month.

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