Phyllis Jeden, J.D., serves as Senior Attorney, Mid-States Region. Phyllis received a Bachelor of Science in Community Development from Central Michigan University and is a graduate of Wayne State University Law School in Detroit. Phyllis worked with the Maurice and Jane Sugar Law Center for Economic and Social Justice during and after graduating from Wayne Law. During her law school career, Phyllis also interned with the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan and participated in Wayne Law’s Disability Law Clinic.

Phyllis later served as a Staff Attorney for Lakeshore Legal Aid, where she also acted as an Ombudsman for Michigan’s MI Health Link Program. Prior to joining the Network, she worked for a private boutique law firm concentrating her practice in the areas of civil and probate litigation. Phyllis has several years of experience in the areas of probate, public benefits, housing, consumer, employment and family law and in protection from abuse.

In her free time, Phyllis enjoys exploring the Michigan park system with her family, playing music and reading. Phyllis is the daughter of Iraqi immigrants. Her experience as a first-generation Chaldean American has informed her worldview and encouraged her interest in public service, equity, and social justice.

Articles & Resources

A Renewed Focus on Health Equity in Wayne County, Michigan

Law & Policy InsightsNeighborhood and Built EnvironmentFood and Housing Insecurity MeasuresEnvironment, Climate and HealthHealthy and Affordable HousingMaternal and Child HealthMechanisms for Advancing Health EquityMechanisms for Advancing Public HealthMental Health and Well-BeingReproductive Health and Equity 

April 19, 2023
by Phyllis Jeden

Wayne County Michigan, which encompasses the City of Detroit, has a large population of residents of color and also faces some of the state’s most significant challenges. Recently, the county has taken significant measures to address acknowledged disparities in health outcomes, creating Regional Health Equity Advisory Councils, a Black Leadership Council, and committing $300 million to support more than 100 programs to further positive, systemic change.

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