Governor's Office of African American Affairs

For over 17 years, the Arizona Governor’s Office of African-American Affairs (GOAAA) has been dedicated to empowering Arizona’s African-American communities. B.

The Arizona Commission on African American Affairs wed an idea birthed from a workshop during a Legislative Conference called “Delta Day”., hosted by Senator Leah Landrum Taylor at the Arizona State Capitol in February 2002. The purpose of Delta Day was to educate people of color on the legislative process

Thanks to the hard work and tenacity of several constituents, organizations, agencies and l

egislator over the years, on May 10th 2010, the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs became one of the only ten Commissions in the United States to be legislated into state statue (A.R.S. 41-531-534). Our purpose is for many African American Leaders and communities’ throughout the state to join together as the voice of physical, emotional and spiritual realities facing Arizonans of African American Decent expressing constructive concerns to the leaders of the great state of Arizona

There are nine Commissioner’s assigned to nine Arizona Quadrants. Their mission is to listen to constituents’ opinions and recommendations during Town Halls and other activities held throughout the year. Quarterly stakeholder meetings allow for the sharing of local concerns with Arizona Leaders. The commissions on African American Affairs will give you tools to begin to discover solutions for our communities through articulating the needs and developing strategies. Together we can renew the dream, and with forethought and drive, orchestrate our destiny. Hosting this year’s conference is Community Education Services, INC. (CES). CES is a 501c3 Organization. The event is at the State Capitol mall in Phoenix Arizona

41-531. ARIZONA COMMISSION OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN AFFAIRS

A. The Arizona commission of African-American affairs is established and consists of the governor, the superintendent of public instruction, the director of the department of health services, the director of the department of transportation, the attorney general, the director of the department of economic security, the director of the office of tourism and the chief executive officer of the Arizona commerce authority, or their representatives, who shall be ex officio members, and nine members who are appointed by the governor, seven of whom are African-American and two of whom are not African-American. The term of office of each appointed member is three years. Each member shall hold office until the member's successor is appointed and qualifies. Appointment to fill a vacancy caused other than by expiration of a term shall be for the unexpired portion of the term. C. Members of the commission shall serve without compensation. D. The commission shall elect a chairperson and a vice-chairperson from among its appointed members and adopt rules for the conduct of meetings. A record shall be kept of all proceedings and transactions. E. Section 41-2955, subsection D does not apply to the commission. F. The commission shall meet at least quarterly on the second Thursday of the first month of each quarter and may hold additional meetings on the call of the chairperson. A majority of the appointed members of the commission constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but ex officio members may vote. Members who fail to attend three consecutive meetings are deemed to have resigned. G. The appointed members of the commission shall employ, subject to chapter 4, article 4 of this title, an executive director of the commission who shall not be a member of the commission. The director is eligible to receive compensation as determined by the commission from monies available in the Arizona commission of African-American affairs fund established by section 41-533. The commission may employ clerical, professional and technical personnel subject to chapter 4, article 4 of this title and monies available in the Arizona commission of African-American affairs fund and shall prescribe their duties and determine their compensation.

06/02/2026

602 reasons to celebrate!

Today, we honor the rich history, resilience, and contributions of Arizona’s African-American community. From shaping our neighborhoods and institutions to leading in business, education, public service, and the arts, the impact is undeniable.

As we recognize 602 Day, let’s continue uplifting the voices, stories, and achievements that make Arizona stronger and more vibrant.

05/20/2026

Please join the GOAAA in congratulating our amazing intern, Karess Melanie, on graduating from Arizona State University! Your hard work, dedication, and passion have truly shined during your time with us, and we know this is only the beginning of all the greatness ahead.

Karess, thank you for the impact you’ve made and the energy you’ve brought to the team. We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see all the incredible things you accomplish next.

Congratulations, Sun Devil! ❤️💛
ClassOf2026

05/05/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! 💚
Join the Arizona Governor’s Office of African-American Affairs as we prioritize our mental wellness and break the stigma together. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body. Share your self-care routines in the comments below and let’s support each other on this journey!

Photos from Governor's Office of African American Affairs's post

04/24/2026

For nearly 55 years, Dr. Blue led with purpose as President and CEO of Arizona Opportunities Industrialization Center, dedicating his life to creating pathways through support for those too often overlooked. His work wasn’t just about employment; it was about dignity, opportunity, and changing lives.

For over two decades, he also carried forward the spirit of Dr. King as Chairman of the Arizona MLK Celebration Committee, bringing people together in celebration and action year after year. His leadership left a lasting mark on Arizona and beyond.

A decorated leader, a proud veteran, and a servant to many, Dr. Blue’s legacy lives on in every life he touched, every door he helped open, and every community he helped strengthen. He led with faith, always reminding us he was “Blessed,” and trusting that “God’s Got It.”

His impact will never be forgotten.

— Arizona Governor’s Office of African-American Affairs

Governor’s Office of African American Affairs hosts Maricopa town hall

04/23/2026

The Governor's Office of African American Affairs was proud to convene community members, local officials, and public safety leaders in Maricopa for a meaningful town hall focused on growth, infrastructure, public safety, and community priorities. As Executive Director Jerry McPherson shared, “We just want to make sure that we remain engaged and not only with those making decisions, but also community members.” Conversations like these help ensure our work remains informed, responsive, and rooted in the voices of the people we serve.

Thank you to Police Chief Mark Goodman, Fire Chief Brad Pitassi, Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi and Councilmembers Henry Wade, Amber Liermann and AnnaMarie Knorr for your participation, along with Save Our Schools Arizona and Black Maricopa Chamber of Commerce for your partnership.

https://inmaricopa.com/governors-office-of-african-american-affairs-hosts-maricopa-town-hall/

Governor’s Office of African American Affairs hosts Maricopa town hall Maricopa leaders and residents discuss growth, infrastructure and community needs at a GOAAA town hall, highlighting challenges like State Route 347 and civic engagement

04/15/2026

The Governor’s Office of African-American Affairs proudly welcomes Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® to the great state of Arizona for the 97th Far Western Regional Conference! 🌵🩷💚
Arizona is honored to host the brilliant women of AKA as you convene, connect, and continue your legacy of service and sisterhood. The Valley is ready for you!

03/04/2026

Black women have been at the forefront of history… breaking barriers, shaping movements, and leading with resilience! This , we honor the strength, brilliance, and legacy of African American women who continue to pave the way!

03/04/2026

We are deeply grateful to the incredible sponsors who helped make the Governor’s Office of African-American Affairs 24th Annual Legislative & Leadership Conference a success.

Because of your partnership and commitment to community, this conference continues to serve as a powerful space where leaders, advocates, policymakers, and community members come together to advance opportunity, equity, and impact across Arizona.

From our Legacy Builders and Equity Champions to our Pillar Partners and Community Supporters, your investment strengthens the work being done to uplift African-American communities and expand pathways for leadership, policy engagement, and economic empowerment.

Your support makes it possible for us to host meaningful conversations, provide critical resources, and build connections that move our state forward.

Thank you for believing in the mission and for standing with us as partners in progress!

03/03/2026

A legacy that shaped generations. A voice that moved a nation. A life that called us higher.

Join us for a Prayer Gathering honoring the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. as we reflect, remember, and recommit to the work of justice and equity he championed.

Thursday, March 5, 2026
5:00 PM
Arizona State Capitol, Phoenix

RSVP is requested for proper planning: bit.ly/JLJAZMemorial or text 602.526.2543

Let us gather in unity, gratitude, and purpose.

02/19/2026

Congratulations to all of our Unsung Heroes! Thank you for the impact you make in our communities and for truly embodying this year’s conference theme, .

2026 Unsung Hero Award Recipients

Youth Pillar: Dr. Camilla Westenberg, Vice President for Political Action, Maricopa County NAACP

Economic Development Pillar:Andre Whittington, Executive Director, Growth Partners AZ

Health Pillar: Kristian Adair, FNP, Adair Clinic & Pink Med Spa

Sustainability Pillar: Gabriel Evans, Program Associate, U.S. Water Alliance

Justice Pillar: Quinton Ward and Ramses Ja (Civic Cipher)

Education Pillar: Idenna Russell, Assistant Principal, Desert Edge High School

Chair’s Award:Paul Smiley, President and Chief Executive Officer, Sonoran Technology

Public Service Impact Award: Stanley Silas, Senior Attorney, Housing, Community Legal Services

Director’s Award: Michael Kelly, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Leadership Consortium

Founder’s Award:Quiana Dickenson, Political Director, Arizona Democratic Party

Democracy in Action Award: Arizona Democracy Resource Center

📷: ._

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Location

Phoenix

Telephone

+16025425484

Website

https://goaaa.az.gov/

Address

1700 W Washington Street
Phoenix, AZ
85007

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 4pm
Tuesday	9am - 4pm
Wednesday	9am - 4pm
Thursday	9am - 4pm
Friday	9am - 4pm