News Press

Roland Hwang has exemplified an unwavering dedication to serving his community, fueled by a belief in justice, equality, and social progress for all. Hwang’s remarkable service history spans multiple decades and organizations, leaving a lasting mark on Michigan’s civic landscape.

After first visiting in 1954 at the age of 5, he has contributed 25,000 volunteer hours to the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit. The group was founded in 1919 by volunteers who sought to help legal immigrants learn English, appreciate freedom and democracy, become citizens, be assimilated into their communities, and learn to understand each other’s cultures. Hwang has been on the board since the mid-1980s and has twice served as president.

Hwang’s service demonstrates his hands-on approach to community building. During his ongoing involvement with the American Citizens for Justice he has held pivotal positions within the organization, including president, vice president, and chair of the Attorney Committee. Roland’s influence also extends to the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion, New Detroit, and the United Way of Southeastern Michigan.

In the legal realm, Hwang’s contributions have been monumental. His involvement in the State Bar of Michigan’s Public Outreach Committee led to significant legal milestones. Moreover, his leadership roles in the Michigan State Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights shed light on critical civil rights and social justice issues. He is a life member of the State Bar Foundation. Furthermore, he uses his influence to advocate for Asian Americans and minority groups. His role on the Michigan Governor’s Advisory Council on Asian-Pacific American Affairs has allowed him to offer invaluable insights and contribute to special projects and events that addressed community needs. Hwang’s impact was also felt through his leadership as secretary and President of the Association of Chinese Americans. He has also served in various positions for the Association of Chinese Americans and OCA Asian Pacific Advocates. As part of the Attorney General’s Hate Crime Prevention Task Force, he has researched Michigan’s provisions for the prevention of crimes against the properties and persons of ethnic and racial minority backgrounds. On a national level,  he has dedicated time to the National Asian-Pacific American Bar Association as Central Region Governor and played an instrumental role in the Michigan Asian-Pacific American Bar Association, serving as its President in 1985. His impact extends beyond civic and legal domains to education as well. He has served as both President and Vice President on the Northville School Board, overseeing the education of thousands of students and teachers.

Roland Hwang’s lifetime of service, spanning across decades and organizations, demonstrates the impact service can have on a community. His hands-on approach and contributions to the legal realm have driven profound change and illuminated crucial issues. Hwang’s legacy is one that showcases the potential of individual action to transform lives and communities.

— Michigan Department of Labor % Economic Opportunity, 2023 Governors Service Award Winners,  Nov 28, 2023.