Midland County Inclusion Alliance reflects on 2025, prepares for expanded inclusion efforts in 2026

The Midland County Inclusion Alliance (MCIA) is highlighting a year of community involvement and preparing for expanded outreach as 2026 begins. The volunteer-run organization works to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across Midland County through community education, advocacy, and partnerships.

In 2025, MCIA reported increases in workshop participation, public engagement, and collaborative projects. Volunteers distributed more than 250 “Hate Has No Home Here” yard signs, hosted over 100 participants in educational sessions, and connected with hundreds of residents at local events. The group also partnered with Midland Public Schools to place 8,000 student-designed decals on district Chromebooks and welcomed new volunteers to its programs.

The organization noted that residents continued supporting one another throughout the year, from responding when SNAP benefits were at risk to engaging in inclusive community celebrations such as Neighboring Week. MCIA encouraged individuals to remain engaged in conversations about inclusion and to continue learning, listening, and building connections.

Yard sign distribution to resume in spring 2026

MCIA has concluded its 2025 distribution of “Hate Has No Home Here” signs and plans to resume the program in spring 2026. The signs, the organization says, are intended to establish a baseline of respect and counter rhetoric rooted in hatred or dehumanization. Residents may sign up for spring updates through MCIA’s website.

Sensory-friendly holiday events continue in December

Several Midland County organizations are offering sensory-friendly programming throughout December to create welcoming environments for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families.

Sensory-Friendly Nights at the Santa House
Dec. 3–5, 6–9 p.m.
Lights and sound can be lowered, and attendance is limited. Information is available ‌online

Relaxed Performances at Midland Center for the Arts
Midland Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert — Dec. 13 at noon
Center Stage Youth Theatre’s The Emperor’s New Clothes — Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Relaxed performances support guests with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, sensory processing disorders, PTSD, and other sensory sensitivities. More details can be found online.

Sensory-Friendly Movies at NCG Cinemas Midland
“The Grinch” — Dec. 6
“Arthur Christmas” — Dec. 13
“The Polar Express” — Dec. 20
Movies are presented without previews, with lights on and the sound reduced. Talking, movement, and vocalizations are welcome. For more information and show times visit the cinema online.

Resource for navigating family conversations

MCIA is directing residents to “Families & Politics,” a free online mini-course offered by Braver Angels, a nonprofit focused on political depolarization. The 40-minute resource, which provides strategies for lowering tension and improving communication during family gatherings, is available online.

Residents can follow MCIA on Facebook and Instagram for updates on events, workshops, and community resources.