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Michigan Chronicle

A Critical Juncture for Detroit’s Community Violence Intervention Efforts

All Black Everything:

Flint Residents Still Waiting:

A Night of Elegance and Excellence at the 10th Annual Michigan

By Ebony JJ Curry

SENIOR REPORTER

UAW Triple Strike Against Detroit Automakers

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

The ShotStoppers program has become a lifeline for neighborhoods that are too often defined by crime and despair. What started in 2023 as a $10 million initiative funded by federal pandemic relief dollars has produced a clear, measurable reduction in violent crime. Community organizations, working directly with those most at risk, have driven down non-fatal shootings and homicides in ways that city-led approaches alone had not achieved. But as 2025 begins, the program’s future hangs in the balance, jeopardized by political inaction and shifting legislative priorities.

By Ebony JJ Curry

SENIOR REPORTER

Late Thursday night, Sept. 14, a historic moment unfolded in American labor relations as the United Auto Workers (UAW) union initiated a strike against Ford, General Motors (GM), and Stellantis. For the first time, the union took simultaneous action against all three major Detroit-based automakers. The action involves approximately 13,000 UAW members in assembly plants across Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri, who walked off their jobs after existing labor contracts expired at 11:59 p.m.

IDetroit Mayor Mike Duggan lauded the efforts of ShotStoppers during a recent press conference, linking the initiative to a 19% drop in criminal homicides and a 25% decline in non-fatal shootings in 2024. These reductions, while noteworthy, come with a stark reminder: Detroit’s population today is far smaller than it was in 1965, the last time homicides were this low. The progress underscores the importance of maintaining momentum, but without secure funding, that progress could unravel.

n a breathtaking celebration of talent, determination, and the unyielding spirit of Black excellence, the Michigan Chronicle marked its 10th Annual 40 Under 40 event Thursday evening. This year’s soirée, drenched in the theme “All Black Everything with Gold Accents,” transcended expectations and essentially illuminated the golden gems within the true essence of Black excellence. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Andre Ash and Lynzee Mychael from Michigan Chronicle’s Finally Friday, the night was a triumph for the city of Detroit and its vibrant community of young Black pro-

Brown’s commitment to empowering the city through fashion and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark.

Justice Delayed in Water Crisis Settlement

The evening sparkled with a golden promise as we celebrated remarkable individuals from various walks of life. Among the honorees were the brilliant and visionary co-founders of Detroit Hives, Nicole Lindsey and Timothy Paul Jackson. Their work has not only changed the landscape of beekeeping and urban farming in Detroit but also exemplified the transformative impact Black professionals can have on their communities.

Shortly before midnight on Sept. 14, GM released a statement expressing disappointment with the strike action, despite offering what it termed an “unprecedented economic package” that included historic wage increases. Stellantis also expressed disappointment in a statement, saying the company immediately went into contingency mode to protect its operations.

“Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said Brown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talented, accomplished, and popular people that look like me. I’m geeked. I started making and selling clothes as a kid and I always knew that I would have a business, but I never knew it would be Detroit’s brand name business, so I take a lot of pride in the fact that our business represents our city’s pride.”

Greektown Had 1.4 Million

Can Reparative Investment Finally Heal the Wounds Left

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Taking home the Corporate Excellence Award was Dannis Mitchell, Director of Community Engagement at Barton Malow.

ness district that had been the lifeblood of the community.

T“Together we have created a social, environmental, and financial impact through bees,” said Jackson. Lindsey followed that sentiment with, “It is through our local partnerships and collaborative efforts that we exist in over 28 plus locations managing the health of 4.5 million honeybees – humbly speaking our movement has inspired others locally, nationally, and even internationally to take on similar missions.”

A bill that aimed to create a long-term public safety trust fund failed to pass in Michigan’s Democrat-led Legislature last year. Duggan expressed cautious optimism, citing Republican House Speaker Matt Hall’s apparent support for revisiting the proposal. However, others, like Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal, see the missed opportunity as a significant setback.

For many Detroiters, Interstate 375, or I-375, has long been just another stretch of urban highway, a concrete artery connecting different parts of the city. To some, it’s a mere convenience; to others, it’s an unremarkable part of their daily commute. However, there’s a deeper, far more troubling story beneath the surface of this seemingly ordinary freeway—a story of pain, displacement, and the lasting impact on Black Detroiters.

he Flint water crisis stands as one of the most harrowing examples of systemic neglect in recent memory, a tragic indictment of what happens when communities are devalued and disregarded. Flint residents have spent more than a decade navigating the fallout from poisoned water—struggling to find justice and waiting for recompense that, even now, remains out of reach. The wait continues as the latest developments in the settlement process bring a glimmer of hope but no immediate resolution.

claims administrator had received 12,847 requests for reconsideration. This underscores the deep frustration and dissatisfaction felt by many Flint residents who believe their hardships deserve acknowledgment and fair compensation. The Special Master has not issued payment notices to any law firm or individual claimant as of yet, noting only that these notices will be issued “as soon as possible in the near future.”

towards mending the wounds inflicted on Black Detroiters and restoring a sense of belonging that was so callously torn away in the past.

“There were some key things that, as municipal elected officials, we wanted to see done,” said Durhal. “We were very vocal about the public safety trust fund. No one wanted to see that go down. Hopefully, Matt Hall keeps his promise … but what does it look like then? It’s got to go through the Senate. Does that bill remain the same?”

The UAW has branded the industrial action as the “Stand-Up Strike,” focusing on specific plants within each automaker. UAW President Shawn Fain stated, “This strategy will keep the companies guessing. It will give our national negotiators maximum leverage and flexibility in bargaining. And if we need to go all out, we will. Everything is on the table.” Union leaders have also indicated that additional plants could be targeted in future waves if negotiations remain stalled.

Detroit Hives, a pioneering organization founded by Lindsey and Jackson, harnesses the power of urban beekeeping to revitalize neighborhoods in the Motor City. Their initiative not only addresses critical issues like environmental conservation but also provides valuable education and employment opportunities to Black De-

Special Master Deborah Greenspan’s recent report on the claims process underscores just how complicated and protracted this journey toward compensation has become.

“It is so important to recognize that there are young leaders across the country, many that are born here in Detroit. I represent our city nationally and I tell people, ‘Yea I’m a D-girl I’m from the west-side of Detroit,’” Mitchell expressed. “But more importantly, I’ve been able to have experiences within an industry that not many of us, specifically women of color, have the opportunity to engage in and I’ve been the youngest person in the room, the only Black person in the room, and the only Sistah in the room, and I really had to articulate the importance of showing up, giving chances when others won’t, and being persistent.” As a trailblazing Black woman thriving in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her unwavering commitment to fortifying the connections between businesses and Detroit’s communities is unde-

It’s a history marred by pain, injustice, and economic devastation. More than 130,000 residents, primarily Black, were forcibly displaced. Families were uprooted, generational wealth was obliterated, and a thriving community was torn asunder. The wounds inflicted by I-375 run deep, transcending the physical barrier of a freeway to penetrate the very soul of Black Detroiters.

As of January 8, 2025, a total of 27,581 claims have been approved, representing 25,516 individual claimants. Of those individuals, 12,170 were adults, and 13,346 were minors during the crisis, a sobering reminder of how many children were forced to endure one of the most preventable public health disasters in modern history.

This painful legacy can be traced back to the nation’s interstate highway program of 1956—a program that aimed to connect the country but often did so at the expense of marginalized communities. In the case of I-375, it meant carving a path through the heart of Black Detroit, reinforcing segregation, and perpetuating inequality.

This delay, though administrative in nature, speaks to a larger issue. For more than a decade, Flint residents have fought tooth and nail for justice, only to encounter setback after setback. The crisis began when improperly treated water from the Flint River corroded aging pipes, allowing lead to leach into the city’s drinking water. Lead is a toxic metal with devastating effects, particularly on children, and Flint’s families have been forced to live with the consequences of this contamination every day since.

The I-375 Boulevard Project is about more than just correcting historical injustices; it’s about redefining the future. It will connect downtown Detroit to surrounding neighborhoods, bridging the gap that was placed upon the city decades ago.

A string of shootings in Greektown in mid-April left both visitors and residents of this bustling downtown destination in awe. One of these shootings tragically claimed the life of a popular and beloved security guard following a dispute with a patron. The male suspect allegedly shot the guard before fleeing the scene, while his female companion is accused of concealing the weapon in her bra.

All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness

By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR

Duggan has credited ShotStoppers and similar community-driven strategies as essential complements to Detroit’s broader public safety measures, which include initiatives like Project Green Light and gunshot detection systems. However, those tools don’t replace the boots-on-the-ground work of organizations like FORCE Detroit. The organization, which has posted significant crime reductions in neighborhoods such as Warrendale Cody Rouge, represents what’s possible when local leaders are empowered to address violence at its roots.

The tale begins in what is now Lafayette Park, once known as Black Bottom—a neighborhood rooted in African-American culture and history. Named after its dark, fertile soil, Black Bottom flourished during the mid1900s, nurturing the dreams and aspirations of prominent Detroiters like Coleman Young, Joe Louis, and numerous other Detroit legends. But in the name of urban renewal in the 1950s, this vibrant neighborhood was systematically dismantled, erased from the map, and replaced by a lifeless stretch of asphalt.

These incidents unfolded during an unseasonably warm spring, leading to increased pedestrian traffic and heightened tensions in the densely populated downtown area.

Fain clarified the union’s strategy: “I want to give a major shoutout to the thousands of members who are on the picket lines right now fighting for all of us. The Stand-Up Strike is a new approach to striking. Instead of striking all plants at once, select locals will be called on to stand up and walk out on strike. This is our generation’s answer to the movement that built our union – the sit-down strikes of 1937. We told the Big 3 that Sept. 14 was the deadline and we meant it. We gave the companies our economic demands eight weeks ago and it took more than a month to get to the table.”

The state of Michigan’s agreement in 2020 to contribute $600 million to a settlement fund marked a significant step forward, but it did not erase the years of harm inflicted on this majority-Black city. Other parties, including the city of Flint, a local engineering firm, a local hospital, and several businesses, also joined the settlement. Yet, the pathway to receiving these funds has been neither smooth

A Holistic Approach to Providing Shelter and Support for Detroit’s Unhoused People

For one to aptly recognize the harm caused by such projects, it is vital to note that some of the planners and politicians behind those projects built them directly through the heart of vibrant, populated communities—oftentimes to reinforce segregation and sometimes as part of a direct effort to replace or eliminate Black neighborhoods.

Dujuan “Zoe” Kennedy, a Detroit native and formerly incarcerated activist, stepped into leadership at FORCE Detroit following the departure of its founder, Alia Harvey

While the residential areas bore the brunt of this demolition, the heart of Black Bottom, its thriving business center, remained largely untouched. Restaurants, theaters, clubs, and bars—the very places that brought Detroit’s Black community together—were concentrated around Hastings Street, the epicenter of African-American culture in the city.

The approved claims cover a wide range of harm, from direct injuries to property damage and business losses. Specifically, 15,363 claims have been identified as injury-re lated, 12,082 as property claims, and 136 as business claims. Each of these numbers represents lives uprooted, families displaced, and dreams deferred because a city’s most basic resource—safe drinking water—was compromised. These claims are tied to a settlement pool exceeding $600 million, but dividing this fund equi tably and efficiently has proven to be an arduous process.

Housing Resource Helpline in response to the challenges that residents face in navigating the complex system of housing ser vices. The helpline provides a single point of contact for people seeking housing assistance and connects them with the resources they need.

While the claims process is near ing its conclusion, hurdles remain. Greenspan’s report confirms that thou sands of reconsideration requests are still under review. By December 20, 2024, the

The surge in crime and the influx of visitors to Detroit’s downtown core garnered the attention of the Detroit Police Department (DPD), catching them somewhat

Today, the resurgence of Paradise Valley stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Black Detroiters and the enduring legacy of Black excellence. This historic district, once a vibrant hub for Black businesses and culture, is experiencing a renaissance that harkens back to its glory days. The destruction of Black Bottom may have torn apart a thriving community, but the resolute determination of a new generation of entrepreneurs and visionaries is reclaiming that lost legacy.

Homelessness continues to plague urban communities, with families and individuals grappling with the challenges of making ends meet in today’s economic climate. Whether it’s struggling to meet monthly mortgage payments or coping with soaring rental costs in a housing market marked by shockingly high prices, a variety of factors contribute to the growing issue of people becoming unhoused.

The union is pushing for a comprehensive list of demands. This

Meagan DunnJulie Schneider

Historically, shelters have provided a temporary respite for those in need, often serving as the first or second option after exhausting alternatives like staying with friends or family. Shelters offer a place to rest one’s head and a warm meal, albeit sometimes for extended periods. For others, being unhoused means living in cars or makeshift outdoor

Then, in a cruel twist of fate, Hastings Street, too, was obliterated a few years later, making way for the construction of I-375. This marked the final blow, sealing the fate of Black Bottom and signaling the beginning of the end for Paradise Valley, the Black busi-

Support for the helpline comes from the Gilbert Family Founda tion, which has pledged $10 million over three years to fund the program. Wayne Metro Community Action Agency manages the helpline, making it accessible to all Detroit residents. This initiative simplifies access to the City’s various housing services, ensuring that residents in

This settlement, while monumental in scale, will never fully account for the irreparable harm caused by this crisis. Flint families have had to bear the costs of medical bills, developmental delays in children, and the emotional toll of being forgotten by the systems that were supposed to protect them. For a city where over 40% of residents live in poverty, the crisis compounded existing challenges, leaving scars that no amount of money can heal.

James White, Chief of Police for the Detroit Police Department, said: “We were caught somewhat flat-footed right out the gate. By design we went into the spring deployment, which is less than the mid-summer deployment, and saw we say an uptick in violence that first

scars of I-375, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Plans have been unveiled to transform this once-divisive freeway into a vision that seeks to right the wrongs of the past while heralding a new era of inclusivity and community revitalization.

Chief White attributes the violence in Greektown to a combination of weather conditions and a surge in pop-

the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other partners, this ambitious project aims to create jobs, remove barriers to economic growth, and reconnect the neighborhood with the rest of Detroit. It is a step

In the heart of Paradise Valley, Blackowned businesses are not just flourishing but thriving, offering diverse services, products, and experiences that pay homage to the past while paving the way for a prosperous future. From jazz clubs to soul food restaurants, the Black Press, and art galleries to fashion boutiques, this revival is breathing life into the very essence of what once made this neighborhood a vibrant cultural epicenter. It’s a resurgence that extends beyond brick and mortar; it represents the resurgence of a spirit that refuses to be subdued. Detroit City Councilman Fred Durhal III, representing District 7, where Eastern Market resides, told the Michigan Chronicle, “It’s still very early in the process, MDOT is

He explained, “ We saw numbers downtown that we have not seen, ever. People are emerging from COVID and there’s a feeling that we’re in a post-COVID era… and with the venues downtown and the reasons to come down with all the activities that are going on, we saw hundreds of more people and, in particularly, young folks, teenagers that we hadn’t seen.”

The causes of homelessness are as diverse and complex as the individuals experiencing it. In response, the City of Detroit has adopted a holistic approach to combat this issue.

“Providing services and high-quality housing to persons at risk of or who are experiencing homelessness is a key priority of the City of Detroit, said Julie Schneider, Director of Detroit’s Housing and Revitalization Department.

“This means focusing on building the pipeline of supportive housing and coordinating with the Continuum of Care on the delivery of critical resources such as emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, and diversion and prevention programs. It also means preserving and expanding affordable housing options for Detroiters of all incomes and improving housing stability though comprehensive service offerings available through the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine and Detroit Housing Services Division within HRD.”

In May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit

“The city and its partners offer a lot of great services to help Detroiters with their housing needs, but they don’t mean much if people don’t know how to access them,” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “Thanks to the efforts of our partners and the generous support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, we now have a simple process to guide residents to the right housing resource and a growing number of programs to

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

The Gilbert Family Foundation’s broader commitment involves pledging $500 million to support projects across Detroit over the next ten years, with housing initiatives being a significant part of their contribution.

Notably, Detroit has witnessed a consistent decrease in recent years, with the number of unhoused residents steadily declining. In 2019, approximately 7,847 people were unhoused and entered the City’s community response system. In 2021, about 5,687 people experienced homelessness.

According to the City of Detroit, since the start of the fiscal year 2019 to 2021, Detroit saw a 28% decrease in the

Responding swiftly to the surge in violence, DPD adjusted its deployment plans. Rather than waiting for mid-summer, they deployed officers in the spring itself to address the situation. The rise in visitors to the Greektown area is evident in data from Placer.ai, a location analytics company specializing in visit trends and demographic insights through geolocation-enabled mobile devices. From May 1-Aug. 27, 2022, there were 1.3 million visits and 655,000 visitors to Greektown, according to Placer.ai. In the same period this year, these numbers increased to 1.4 million visits and 670,000 visitors.

“We’ve

Storms and flooding devastated Detroit in August 2023, leaving many homes, neighborhoods, and communities grappling with the aftermath. More than a year later, a significant step toward recovery has been made. The federal government has allocated $460.8 million in disaster recovery and prevention funds to Michigan, with $346.8 million designated for Detroit. This funding, announced by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), provides an opportunity to address critical infrastructure issues that have plagued the city for decades.

As Detroit’s downtown area continues to attract both residents and visitors, the police department has implemented various enforcement measures to manage the increased population. Notably, metal detectors have been strategically placed throughout Greektown to deter the illegal carrying of firearms.

“We have strategically placed them at key points, “ Chief White explains. It has been a deterrent for some, and some have tested it. If you are legally carrying a weapon and carrying a CPL, have a great day. If you’re

Detroit’s share of the funding will go toward fixing failing alley sewer lines and drains,

DPD Chief James White

Amidst the glitz and glamour, the event also showcased the diversity of talent within our community. From Paris T. Prichard, a forensic scientist pushing the boundaries of her field, to math wizards like Donna Laster, who

Flood Risks

ate rainfall. Neighborhoods such as Cornerstone Village, North Rosedale Park, and the North End have been especially impacted. Mayor Duggan acknowledged that without federal support, addressing these issues would have been impossible.

the rights of all women are continued.

fordable housing, repair and upgrade of roads, water systems, and utilities, support for small businesses, and measures to reduce future disaster risks.

cine and healthcare, may be adversely impacted by the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

Elected officials are also working to keep Roe v. Wade intact thus holding off Michigan’s 1931 trigger ban. Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement saying, in part:

“We couldn’t possibly have the resources to address this on our own,” he said. “This is an opportunity to make the homes in this city much more secure. It’s going to take years to rebuild, but this is a huge jump start.”

“PPMI has been preparing for this moment since the results of the 2016 election were final. We recently filed a lawsuit to stop the 1931 law from going into effect, and we’ve also asked the state courts to affirm that the Michigan constitution does already contain a right to abortion. Our advocacy arm, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, is a founding member of the coalition that launched Reproductive Freedom for All, a ballot initiative to affirm the right to abortion and reproductive freedom in the state constitution,” said Vasquez Giroux.

“The bottom line is that we will do everything in our power to keep abortion legal in Michigan, and if SCOTUS makes that impossible, we will do everything we can to ensure our patients can access the care they need.”

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) has been working to mitigate the damage caused by storms and flooding. In 2024, the department cleaned 622 miles of sewer lines and serviced 8,000 catch basins. DWSD Chief Operating Officer Sam Smalley highlighted the department’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvements, noting that $50 million is invested annually in cleaning, replacing, and inspecting the city’s sewer system. However, the HUD funding will enable a much more comprehensive response.

HUD’s Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program provides the funds. This program focuses on helping low- and moderate-income communities recover from severe weather events that are not fully covered by insurance or other federal assistance. The funding addresses critical needs, including the replacement of damaged af-

corporate boards to have more diverse representation and pass the legislation.

Better collection and analysis of criminal justice data: BLAC recommends data collection and professional analysis be initiated with the assistance of our Attorney General, Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES), Association of Michigan Prosecutors and other stakeholders to collaborate, collect and analyze data strategically.

Detroit’s allocation comes from nearly $12 billion in CDBG-DR funds distributed to communities across the country impacted by disasters. Michigan’s portion specifically addresses the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that prompted a disaster declaration by President Joe Biden for nine counties in the state. In Detroit, the funds will be used to fix old alley sewer lines and drains, prevent future basement backups, and construct new flood-resilient affordable housing.

“The words ‘Roe overturned’ are no longer theoretical. I want every Michigander to know— no matter what happens in D.C., I’m going to fight like hell to protect access to safe, legal abortion in Michigan…”

More than legal implications, overturning Roe v. Wade would impact several systems across the spectrum. With the potential to drive both foster and adoption numbers upward, a ban on abortions could leave many women to choose a less safe route restoring ‘back alley’ and illegal abortion practices, including self-abortions. Moreover, African American women and women of color, who already have a long-storied history with access and inclusion in medi-

islature adopts it.

City officials have 120 days to create an action plan detailing how the funding will be used. Community engagement will play a central role in shaping this plan, with residents invited to provide feedback through a series of events. Mayor Duggan stressed the importance of transparency and resident input in ensuring the funds are used effectively. The city’s grant proposal will then be submitted to HUD for approval before moving to the Detroit City Council for final authorization.

Increase school funding: Statutory changes to increase the School Aid Fund revenue by at least $3.6 billion and establish a permanent weighted funding formula based on student and community needs and universal preschool (0-3).

Duggan emphasized that the funding must address long-term challenges. “The funding has guidelines for how it can be used. In this case, the money can be used to prevent future disasters,” he said. For Detroit, this means tackling the root causes of flooding and improving the city’s ability to withstand increasingly severe weather events.

HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary for Grant Programs Kera Package spoke to the broader impact of the funding. “While no two disasters are alike, whether it’s devastating wildfires out West, tornadoes and flooding in the Midwest, or hurricanes along the east coast and in the Gulf, people whose lives are impacted have the same needs,” she said. “They’re looking for a safe and secure place to come home and hope for the future.”

“What we are really concerned about is the impact on our patients. Access to abortion is already out of reach for far too many Michiganders, especially Black people and people of color who face additional barriers to care as a result of systemic inequalities and institutional racism. Losing access to legal abortion will impact those communities most, forcing people to become parents or expand their families against their will. Being able to decide and control if, when and how to become a parent is central to building and living a healthy, happy life,” said Vasquez Giroux.

The 2023 storms underscored the urgent need for investment in Detroit’s infrastructure. Flooding and basement backups have left many residents grappling with financial losses, health hazards, and emotional distress. For years, Detroit’s aging sewer system has struggled to keep pace with the demands of a changing climate. The HUD funding represents a critical opportunity to address these systemic issues and improve the city’s resilience.

Beyond the scope of pro-choice versus prolife, the fight for reproductive choice is one of freedom. As Michigan officials work to ensure each woman who finds herself in the position to choose has access to care without the threat of legal action, many wonder

The health committee recommends reviewing state licensure policies to address the barriers that Black psychologists face in obtaining licensure in Michigan.

what the Supreme Court will rule in the upcoming days. Despite the decision, advocates on both sides of the argument are willing to continue their pursuits.

“Overturning Roe v. Wade would be a terrible break with nearly 50 years of judicial precedent and – more importantly – a blow against individual freedom. It is my hope that the majority of justices will reject the findings of this draft. If that is not the case, we need to stand with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Gov. Whitmer in support of their efforts to preserve the right to reproductive freedom,” said Chair Alisha Bell, on behalf of the Wayne County Commission.

HUD funding represents more than a financial commitment. It is an acknowledgment of Detroit’s unique challenges and the resilience of its people. Moving forward, the success of this effort depends on transparent decision-making and a continued partnership between city officials and the residents they serve. Detroit now has the resources to address its vulnerabilities and invest in a future where every resident’s home is protected from the devastation of storms. The road ahead will not be easy, but with a focus on equity and sustainable solutions, this funding has the potential to transform Detroit into a city that is better prepared, stronger, and more secure for generations to come.

Settlement

of harm due to structural inequalities. From poisoned water to inadequate healthcare to housing discrimination, these issues are interconnected, and they demand a collective response.

Detroit’s plan includes fixing alley sewer lines to prevent backups in 10,000 homes over two years and constructing affordable housing designed to withstand future flooding. Officials believe these efforts will provide immediate relief while also laying the foundation for long-term improvements. Residents can find more information about the city’s recovery plans and upcoming engagement events at bit.ly/DetroitDisasterRecovery.

The current status of the settlement process is a microcosm of the broader issues that led to the crisis in the first place—bureaucratic inefficiency, disregard for vulnerable populations, and a lack of urgency in addressing systemic failures. Flint residents continue to wait for relief, their patience worn thin by years of promises that have yet to materialize. The fact that more than 12,000 requests for reconsideration were filed speaks volumes about the persistent inequities in how claims have been evaluated and approved.

Flint’s residents deserve more than apologies and settlements. They deserve acknowledgment, accountability, and systemic change. The settlement process must move forward with greater urgency and transparency, ensuring that every claim is treated with the care and seriousness it deserves. For every child whose future was compromised by lead poisoning, for every family forced to leave their home, and for every small business that suffered economic losses, justice cannot come soon enough.

Ensure equitable distribution of state health funds: Ensure all Michigan communities with a significant Black population receive adequate funds to address mental health issues.

Detroiters have long endured the compounded effects of climate change and neglected infrastructure, but this moment carries a promise for real change. The

Protecting Black voting rights: Urge state officials to remain vigilant in the fight against schemes to disenfranchise Michiganders of color.

ShotStoppers program

Ban no-knock warrants: Urging the House Government Operations Committee to hold hearings on HB 5013 and other legislation that would ban or limit the use of noknock or quick knock warrants, and urging the state legislature to pass meaningful reform and advise Gov. Whitmer to sign the bill after the leg-

Reject censorship in history instruction: Encouraging Gov. Whitmer to ensure the goal for Michigan schools should be history instruction that is presented by professionals with the subject matter expertise, pedagogical skills, and judgment necessary to present complex information to students that are grounded in provable facts and add to the understanding of modern-day America.

I got out of prison and took it.”

Quinn. Quinn, described as a visionary by FORCE Detroit Board President Racheal Allen, built a model of success that other cities now look to emulate. Under her leadership, gun violence in targeted neighborhoods declined by as much as 72%.

Increase mental health supports for the Black community: Recommending Michigan set a goal of increasing the number of Black mental health service providers by 20% each year over five years.

“Because of Alia’s laser-focused leadership and vision, FORCE Detroit has exemplified local, state, and national leadership, showing how one organization can be the example of successful leadership in a Community Violence Intervention system for a city, while also uplifting partner organizations by securing funding to fully staff and grow programs citywide,” Allen said. “Neighborhoods in the city of Detroit are stronger because of this work, and organizations nationwide can look to FORCE Detroit as a guide.”

Kennedy, who credits Quinn with mentoring him after his release from prison, spoke passionately about the need for consistent investment in community violence intervention programs. “We’ve been successful because metrics have been developed to measure our work and give us credit,” he said. “We’ve been successful because we’ve been acknowledged. We’ve been successful because we’ve been funded, and all that is at risk. It is. We were funded for two years, and this is the last year.”

“BLAC members have worked hard to identify the needs of the Black community and we feel these recommendations will provide a solid first step towards breaking down barriers in education, community safety, health and business,” said BLAC Co-Chair Dr. Donna L. Bell.

However, the uncertainty surrounding funding threatens to undermine the progress that organizations like FORCE Detroit have made. Kennedy argues that community violence intervention programs should be considered essential government expenses, just as police departments are. Without secure and permanent funding, the trust and progress built in communities are at risk of collapse.

Greenspan’s report is clear about the complexity of distributing the settlement funds, but clarity offers little solace to a community that has been fighting for its fair share for so long. Every delay is another reminder of how Flint’s residents were first failed by their government and are now being failed again by the slow grind of bureaucracy. The fact that no payment notices have been issued as of yet adds insult to injury, leaving many to wonder when—if ever—they will see tangible justice.

This is not just a Flint issue. It is a sobering example of what happens when systemic racism, economic inequity, and environmental negligence converge. Flint’s crisis is a reminder that Black communities across the nation remain at heightened risk

This moment calls for action—not just from Flint’s leaders but from all of us. It is a call to demand better for communities like Flint, where resilience is abundant but resources are scarce. It is a call to confront the systems that allowed this crisis to happen and to ensure that no other city ever has to endure the same fate.

Flint has waited long enough. The time to deliver justice is now. Let this serve as a reminder that the fight for clean water, equitable resources, and accountability is far from over. It is a fight that demands our full attention, our unwavering support, and our commitment to standing in solidarity with the residents of Flint—until every last claim is paid, every child is safe, and every family can finally begin to heal.

“Our work needs to be funded in perpetuity so we can continue to build our community and redeem ourselves,” Kennedy emphasized.

BLAC will hold a virtual town hall meeting to discuss its policy recommendations on Thursday, May 12 at 4 p.m. Join BLAC and a virtual audience in discussing the recommendations to support the Black community.

The data supports his argument. Detroit recorded 203 homicides in 2024, the fewest since 1965. Non-fatal shootings dropped nearly 50% from 2022 levels, and carjackings were down 15%. While these figures offer hope, they also highlight the fragility of the progress made.

“Chancellor Ivery is a true transformational leader and an outstanding CEO, who is more than worthy of the CEO of the Year Award he just received, “ said Prof. James C. Mays, who teaches entrepreneurship and supply chain management at WCCCD’s Corporate College. “In his 27 years at WCCCD, Dr. Ivery has elevated WCCCD to become nationally recognized for excellence and innovation and preparing our students professionally and personally to do great things in the world.”

“I think of transformational leadership as a thoughtful approach that causes people to change but also causes the systems and circumstances they are operating in to change too,” Ivory said. “Transformational change doesn’t just ask people to do certain things; it asks them to change their view of what’s possible and excites them to drive that change together because they believe that what they’re doing will create positive change for everyone. That’s how entire systems change because people believe that they need to for themselves and others to live better lives.”

Kennedy’s journey from incarceration to leadership reflects the transformative power of such programs. Having served 14 years in prison, he understands better than most what drives young people toward violence and what can steer them away. His ability to relate to those he now mentors stems directly from his own lived experiences.

“These reductions are happening because individuals want more for their life, and it hasn’t been available, and they haven’t had access,” Kennedy said. “Once you give people access to alternatives, they take that.

BLAC is housed in the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Members represent many professional backgrounds, including economics, law, public safety, health and wellness, arts and culture and media. They leverage their experiences and expertise to make recommendations to the governor on critical issues affecting the Black community.

To learn more about BLAC and this upcoming event, visit www.michigan.gov/BLAC. the chancellor embraces.

Kennedy’s leadership, alongside the foundation laid by Quinn, has shown what’s possible when community voices are not only heard but empowered. Yet, as Lansing continues to grapple with political gridlock, the question remains: Will Michigan’s leaders prioritize the safety and well-being of Detroit’s communities, or will they allow the momentum to falter?

For now, Detroit’s community violence intervention advocates remain resolute. They’ve proven that their strategies work, that lives can be saved, and that entire neighborhoods can be transformed. But they can’t do it alone. The investments made over the past two years must not only be maintained but expanded if Detroit is to build on its progress and truly realize a safer, more equitable future.

“We’ve shown what we can do when given the resources,” Kennedy said. “Now it’s up to those in power to decide if they’ll help us continue to build on this foundation or let it crumble.”

Roots.

Sheffield’s conversation on The Wake-Up Call.

Comerica Expands Financial Education Simulation Partnerships to West Michigan

Financial education for all ages has become a critical outreach emphasis with Comerica Bank and its ongoing commitment to serving the community.

Targeted audiences range from pre-k students all the way to seniors, as well from individuals to small business owners.

Topics cover a wide range of issues affecting financial well-being and empowerment.

These sessions provide an opportunity for Comerica’s experts to connect to participants while providing valuable information and tips on improving how to understand and manage money matters.

In recent years, Comerica has stepped up its engagements with key partnerships focused on unique opportunities that offer a more immersive experience and an environment that places individuals into simulations. The key attribute to these experiences allows a participant to walk-through real-world

issues and make decisions they may face or will face at some point in their lives.

Two financial education partners that continue to grow and improve how they reach and support youth financial empowerment are Birthing Innovation Genuis (BIG) Institute and Junior Achievement. BIG Institute was founded in and is based in Detroit, while Junior Achievement features 100 local chapters in all 50 states and serve about 4.4 million students per year.

Surviving In the

the nonprofit first begun serving the community.

DABO connects its expansive network consisting of over 130 organizations to deliver critical resources improving quality-of-life initiatives around the city.

Leading that legacy in Detroit is Reverand Horace Sheffield III, pastor of New Destiny Christian Fellowship and CEO of DABO. Sheffield serves as an on-air radio personality as the host of The Wake-Up Call on WLQV-FM 92.7 FM (and 1500 AM). Additionally, he hosts Real Talk on WADL-TV MyTV 38 in Detroit.

Comerica’s relationship with DABO has helped provide crucial health and human services for the community, as well as financial education and support for entrepreneurs. Since 2020, Comerica has contributed over $185,000 to DABO.

On the Jan. 11 episode of the The Wake-Up Call, Sheffield spoke to Comerica Bank’s Kevin Watkins, who serves as Vice President-External Affairs Market Manager and National African America Business Development Manager. The following are highlights from Rev. Horace

at places such as Cor-

SITRW page A-8

Rev. Horace Sheffield: In recognition of an unparalleled relationship we have with Comerica Bank, I will say to you that the building that we are in was donated to us by Comerica in 1993, the year before my dad passed… All of this would not have happened without the generous donation from Comerica Bank.

Kevin Watkins: “We are definitely glad to have the partnership with DABO. All the great work you are doing in the community, we are appreciative of that. And we are supporters. Anything you can do to help, we are here for you.”

Sheffield: And you do help. You help all year long.

Watkins: “We realize everything that is being done from the free blood pressure screenings to health planning and the speaker series. This list goes on and on. We are supporters and we are here to help. And we do that in a number of different ways. We put up money through the sponsorships but some of that is through human capital. We like to have our people come out. We like to have them volunteer. That is very important to us as well.”

Members of Comerica’s Financial Education Brigade instructs students in a hands-on lesson focusing on Needs and Wants.

Comerica volunteers assist students taking part in the financial literacy program at the Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes Huizenga Family JA Free Enterprise Center in Grand Rapids.

Comerica Financial Education Brigade volunteers at Alger Middle School in Grand Rapids.

Comerica Senior Vice President Debra Hanes assist students at JA Finance Park.

Kevin Watkins (front middle) and Horace Sheffield (front left) pictured with The Wake-Up Call co-hosts.

Reverand Horace Sheffield III, pastor of

was set at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, one of six ceremonies Comerica supported in Michigan.

Comerica Bank Honors Fallen Veterans during Wreaths Across America

According to the U.S. Census, more than 41 million Americans have served in our Armed Forces, and the nation owes them a debt of gratitude. This is the premise behind Wreaths Across America.

In 1992, the Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, found itself with a surplus of wreaths as the holiday season approached. The company’s founder, Morrill Worcester made arrangements to take them to Arlington National Cemetery to be placed on the older graves of veterans that received less attention from visitors. With an outpouring of support--a new time-honored tradition was born.

Wreaths Across America would go on to hundreds of thousands of wreaths on the graves of fallen soldiers in more than 300 cemeteries in the Continental U.S. and territories.

For several years, Comerica Cares volunteers have participated and helped lay wreaths in honor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Comerica’s Military & Veterans Business Resource Group (BRG) along with Comerica’s Veteran Leadership Network Employee Resource Group (ERG) joined together to lead this longstanding tradition in support of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Comerica colleagues across the bank’s footprint joined together on Saturday, Dec.14, to place wreaths on the markers fallen heroes’ gravesites. Once the wreath is placed on a veteran’s marker, the volunteer says their name to ensure their legacy of duty, service, and sacrifice is never forgotten.

Each wreath cost $17.00 to sponsor, and each is handmade out of Maine balsam and placed with gratitude by a volunteer on National Wreaths Across America Day.

Wreaths Across America would not be successful without the help of volunteers, active organizations, and the generosity of donors, the trucking industry,

DABO

From page A-3

the banks is really huge. So, we are really here to assist to guide and to be a consultative force. We want to build that relationship. We are a relationship bank.

“So when an individual comes in — lets say it might be a credit issue — you need to have the wherewithal that if you can’t qualify for a particular loan at that time that is when we are going to guide you. We are going to say that these are the steps you need to take in order to be approved for this particular loan so you can reach this particular goal that you have.

“So, it is really a consultative approach. It is a relationship-based approach. And we have the dedicated and knowledgeable individuals to do that.” Financial Education

Host: If you worked with any schools or students interested in becoming entrepreneurs.

Watkins: “Another aspect of that Community Reinvestment Act program that I help to mange is our financial education … We’ve taught youth from kindergarten to all the way up to our senior citizens population. We have gone to a number of schools to teach them about the importance of entrepreneurship. With youth, we want to talk to them about needs vs. wants. Kind of those basic financial concepts.

ciated with this and you safeguard yourself from the risks.”

Host: We hear generational wealth a lot. What are some of the mistakes people make when trying to build generational wealth?

which offer invaluable support to WAA’s mission to remember the men and women who served our country, honor our military and their families, and teach our children about our freedom and those who protect it.

“Wreaths Across America is an amazing event that allows citizens to honor men and women who served our country with honor and dignity,” explains Tora Adams, Veterans Employee Resource Group Chairperson.

Adding, “The impact on vet-

comes with a cost that is paid by the men and women who choose to serve. Honoring them with wreaths at their gravesites

erans at Comerica and in the community is profound. The wreath-laying ceremonies provide a tangible way for people to show their gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by service members. It also helps to educate the younger generations about the importance of freedom and the cost of maintaining it.”

Adams adds, “As a veteran, I understand the sacrifices that were made on a personal level. I want to ensure that my colleagues and the community never forget that their freedom

“A lot if it is going to be content with what you have. Don’t consume, consume, consume and buy, buy, buy. Can we build our wealth and just be happy where we are at? And then you can buy some of that stuff once you are ready. But don’t make that the number one goal to just buy things.”

Guest: With the money management programs you have, are you starting in elementary school. Are there specific schools you are working with. Are you using the new technologies so students can zoom in and see all of this and how are you expose them to all of this?

Watkins: “Our colleagues will go out to these particular schools, and we will have these financial education presentations. We will explain to them like the difference between needs and wants. That technology piece that you talk about - a lot of people are doing their banking with this (smartphone) now, so we need to step into the 21st century and let individuals know that you don’t have to be afraid of it. You let them know that that these are some of the risks asso-

Watkins: “Not utilizing the expertise of financial consultants and money managers. People will say that I will do it myself. The best people and the people who are the most successful, they are able to take the information from professionals and able to make their money grow for them. I think just not utilizing that expertise. And that lack of trust. That comes with it too.

“You go up to the bank and people are asking you a bunch of questions. They are like ‘Why are you all up in my business?’ I’ll be celebrating my 20th year at Comerica this year. I was in the banking centers. I was an assistant banking center manager for about 11. For about 8 years I was a banking center manager. I dealt with individuals. I helped guide them. Having that trust, having that level of knowledge -- we want people to grow their money. We want to help protect their money.”

Guest: What Type of schools do you work with?

Watkins: We partner with all types of schools. Anyone who gives me a call and wants to talk about financial education, I am open to it. We have colleagues that they are on board. They say ‘Hey, we love to go out and really teach that information.’ It is not confined.

For more information on how DABO is inspiring progress through connection and collaboration visit www.dabodetroitinc. com.

Comerica Bank Vice President-External Affairs Market Manager and National African America Business Development Manager Kevin Watkins (third from right) talks about Comerica’s community commitment to Detroit with DABO CEO Rev. Horace Sheffield (third from left).

Comerica Cares volunteers at the Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Houston National Cemetery in Texas.

Comerica colleague kneels to place down a wreath on a fallen veterans gravesite as part of the national Wreaths Across America. This wreath

Snow did not stop Comerica volunteers from laying wreath in Grand Rapids.

A5 | January 15-21, 2025

A New Year, A New Beginning

Happy New Year, 2025! A fresh year means fresh opportunities and new beginnings. As we step into this new chapter, it’s time to embrace the mindset of going for it. Whether you’re taking small steps or giant leaps, the key is to keep moving forward. Let’s make 2025 the year of Black empowerment through homeownership because property truly is power.

A Mindset Shift for 2025

My mindset for this new year is simple: Go. Go big, go small, just go. The time for hesitation is over. Whether it’s fear, doubt, or external obstacles like family or friends, don’t let anything stand in your way. Now is the time to channel our resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit into building generational wealth. Homeownership isn’t just a financial milestone; it’s a statement of independence, strength, and community empowerment. The Time is Now

There has never been a better time for Black people to own homes or invest in property. The opportunities available today from tailored mortgage products make it possible for everyone to take part in the real estate market. These programs are specifically designed to support the entrepreneurial community, providing innovative solutions that meet a variety of needs.

For example, there are mortgage products that don’t require traditional documentation like tax returns, pay stubs, or W-2s. This flexibility opens doors for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and other non-traditional earners to achieve their homeownership dreams. The excuses are gone. The tools are here. It’s time to make the leap.

Set Goals and Get Ready

If you’re serious about making 2025 your year, it starts with setting clear goals. Stop taking shortcuts and start taking ownership literally and figuratively. Get your credit in shape. Build your financial foundation. These steps are the keys to unlocking opportunities and creating a future where you and your family can thrive.

Think big. Then think even bigger. Your thoughts, actions, and commitments need to match the magnitude of your dreams. Dedicate yourself fully to your goals, and don’t let anything derail your progress. This is your time to shine, so stop faking it and start making it happen.

Lift As You Climb

Empowerment isn’t just about personal success; it’s about community success. As you climb the ladder, remember to reach back and pull others up. Share your knowledge, resources, and encouragement with those around you. When one of us wins, we all win. By fostering a culture of collaboration and support, we can amplify the impact of our individual efforts and create lasting change for generations to come.

Why Property Matters

Homeownership isn’t just about having a place to call your own; it’s about building

See NEW BEGINNINGS Page A-6

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

Urban Alliance Detroit is poised to significantly impact the career trajectories of high school students and young adults across the city thanks to two major funding awards totaling $2 million. The investments, $1.2 million from The Ballmer Group and $800,000 from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, will continue Urban Alliance’s programming and extend opportunities for underserved youth to prepare for and succeed in meaningful careers.

The $1.2 million commitment from The Ballmer Group, to be distributed over three years, will strengthen Urban Alliance Detroit’s programming for 11th and 12thgrade students while expanding services for alumni and young adults. The nonprofit aims to provide tailored career development resources, mentorship opportunities, and critical support systems to ensure long-term economic success for young Detroiters.

Alphonso Amos, Executive Director of Urban Alliance Detroit, emphasized that this generous investment from The Ballmer Group will deepen the impact and empower young people to achieve lasting economic success.

“Their support underscores the importance of providing underserved students with access to career opportunities, mentorship, and resources to succeed,” Amos said.

The Ballmer Group, founded by former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and his wife Connie, is known for its strategic invest-

Michigan Expands Housing Protections to Include Source of Income

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Imagine standing at the edge of possibility, ready to secure a home for your family, only to be turned away—not because of your credit or rental history but because of how you plan to pay your rent. For far too long, this has been the reality for countless Michiganders relying on housing assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers or veterans’ benefits. Early last week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer changed the trajectory of that story by signing legislation that makes the source of one’s income for housing a protected class.

This new package of bills marks a significant victory for housing equity and tenant rights in Michigan. The legislation prohibits landlords with five or more rental units from denying occupancy based on a tenant’s source of income, effectively outlawing discriminatory practices that have kept many vulnerable individuals and families locked out of stable housing opportunities. The change extends protections to Michiganders similar to those provided for race, gender, or religion under existing anti-discrimination laws.

Governor Whitmer’s office released a statement outlining the scope and intent of the legislation, emphasizing its potential to positively impact thousands of families. “The bills also combat homelessness in Michigan by reducing the barriers folks have to overcome when finding housing in our state,” the statement read. “These changes will help potentially 34,290 families afford a roof over their heads and will create more affordable housing options for Michiganders across the state, building on the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to ensuring anyone can ‘make it in Michigan.’”

underscores the vital role of legislators willing to address systemic inequities in housing.

The implications of this legislation extend beyond its immediate beneficiaries. For tenants relying on vouchers and benefits, these protections can mean the difference between stability and housing insecurity. The impact is particularly pronounced for families, veterans, and others who face compounding barriers to accessing safe and affordable homes.

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority, the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan, and the United Way of Southeastern Michigan voiced their support for the legislation. According to the nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency’s analysis, these groups recognized the critical importance of reducing housing discrimination and expanding accessibility.

At the same time, landlord advocacy groups and housing providers maintained a largely neutral stance. Many landlords pointed to the bureaucratic hurdles involved in working with government and quasi-governmental agencies administering voucher programs like those managed by the Detroit Housing Commission. While the legislation introduces new requirements for landlords, including staff training on handling voucher-based payment systems, it stops short of overburdening property owners. Pro-business groups acknowledged the broader struggles tenants face but noted that landlords could still deny applicants based on other criteria unrelated to an income source.

This legislation is the culmination of months of persistent advocacy and legislative negotiation. State Senators Mary Cavanaugh, Rosemary Bayer, and Jeff Irwin sponsored the bills, representing districts from Redford Township to West Bloomfield to Ann Arbor. Their work

This distinction is crucial. The legislation addresses discrimination against tenants using government assistance but does not mandate that landlords accept every applicant. Instead, it ensures that tenants who meet other standard qualifications won’t be turned away solely because of their payment method. While this change won’t revolutionize Michigan’s housing market overnight, it lays a

See HOUSING PROTECTIONS Page A-6

ments in initiatives addressing systemic poverty. Their support for Urban Alliance Detroit is part of a broader effort to address inequities in access to education and employment opportunities.

In addition to The Ballmer Group’s funding, Urban Alliance has been awarded $800,000 through the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. This funding, sourced from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF), will support a groundbreaking new program targeting Michigan Reconnect students aged 21-24.

Recruitment for the new program is set to begin on January 22, 2025, with short training sessions planned for April. Participants will then have an opportunity to

participate in a six-month internship experience to expose them to the skills and expertise needed to thrive in today’s job market.

“These investments mark a pivotal moment for Urban Alliance Detroit as we bridge the gap between education and the workforce,” Amos said. Urban Alliance Detroit, a branch of the

National Urban Alliance organization, has been a cornerstone for youth development in Detroit since its local launch in 2018. The organization’s hallmark High School Internship Program pairs underserved students with paid internships, professional development training, and one-on-one mentorship, preparing them for the transition into higher education or the workforce. This latest funding represents a significant leap forward for Urban Alliance Detroit’s mission to address disparities in career readiness. A 2023 report from

Anthony O. Kellum

wealth, creating stability, and leaving a legacy. For Black families, property ownership has historically been a powerful tool for overcoming systemic barriers and achieving economic independence. It’s a way to reclaim power and ensure that our communities have a solid foundation for the future.

Take Action in 2025

Here are practical steps you can take to make this year your breakthrough year:

Educate Yourself: Learn about the homebuying process, mortgage options, and financial literacy. Knowledge is power.

Improve Your Credit: A strong credit score opens doors to better loan terms and greater opportunities.

Explore Your Options: Research programs and products that fit your unique financial situation.

Set a Budget: Understand your financial limits and create a plan that aligns with your goals.

Build a Support Network: Connect with real estate professionals, mortgage brokers, financial advisors, and community organizations that can guide you through the process.

Take the First Step: Whether it’s saving for a down payment, applying for pre-approval, or attending a homeownership seminar, start now.

New Beginnings Housing Protections

Dream Big, Act Bigger

Dreams without action remain dreams. This year, challenge yourself to go bigger than you ever thought possible. Push past your comfort zone, commit fully to your goals, and dedicate yourself to achieving them. It’s not just about what you accomplish, it’s about the example you set for others and the legacy you leave behind.

A Movement for Change

The “Property is Power” movement is about more than just individual success. It’s about creating a collective shift in how we view and pursue wealth. By prioritizing homeownership and investment, we’re laying the groundwork for stronger, more resilient Black communities. Together, we can turn 2025 into a year of progress, prosperity, and empowerment.

Let’s Go

This is the year to stop waiting and start doing. Take the first step, then the next, and keep going until you reach your destination. No matter how big or small the steps are, just keep moving forward. Let’s make 2025 our year.

Property is Power! Let’s go get it.

justice continues.

right: housing.

critical foundation for more equitable practices.

Critics of the legislation argue that the additional administrative responsibilities might deter landlords from participating in voucher programs. However, the bills are not expected to significantly impact investment in rental housing. By focusing on equity without imposing overly burdensome regulations, the legislation strikes a balance between tenant protections and landlord interests.

Housing discrimination has long perpetuated cycles of poverty and exclusion. For many Black families in Michigan, systemic barriers have historically limited access to safe and stable housing. Policies like redlining and income-based discrimination have had intergenerational consequences, deepening inequities across communities. This

legislation takes an essential step toward dismantling those barriers.

Still, the work is far from done. Housing advocacy groups emphasize that addressing source-of-income discrimination is one piece of a larger puzzle. Expanding affordable housing stock, improving voucher program efficiency, and addressing systemic inequalities require sustained effort and investment.

For tenants like those in Detroit who rely on Section 8 vouchers, navigating the housing market has often been a daunting and disheartening experience. The new legislation offers hope and tangible change, demonstrating Michigan’s commitment to fairness and inclusion. By making source of income a protected class, the state affirms that economic hardship should not determine one’s access to a basic human

”

Governor Whitmer’s leadership on this issue reflects a broader vision for Michigan, one where opportunity isn’t limited by circumstance. “These changes,” her office stated, “build on the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to ensuring anyone can ‘make it in Michigan.’”

Legislation like this serves as a reminder that progress often requires both bold action and compromise. By centering the needs of vulnerable populations while addressing the concerns of landlords and housing providers, Michigan has crafted a policy that could serve as a model for other states grappling with housing discrimination.

The journey to equitable housing doesn’t end here.

Advocates, policymakers, and community members must remain vigilant, ensuring that these protections translate into meaningful change on the ground. Michigan has taken a significant step forward, but the path toward housing

For Michiganders navigating the challenges of finding a place to call home, this legislation is more than a policy shift—it’s a promise that their rights and dignity will no longer be disregarded. Housing is not just about four walls and a roof; it’s about stability, opportunity, and community. This legislation affirms that every person deserves a fair chance to access those fundamental needs, regardless of how they pay their rent.

Governor Whitmer’s signing of this legislation signals a turning point in Michigan’s housing landscape. As the state works to implement these changes, the hope is that it will not only reduce barriers but also inspire other states to prioritize equity and inclusion in their housing policies. For Michigan’s families, veterans, and countless others, this is a moment of possibility and progress—a moment that says no one should be left without a place to call home.

Until

History in a Box: The Shoebox Legacy

Until 1965, Jim Crow laws made travel extremely difficult and dangerous for Black Americans in the south. Blacks were refused service in restaurants, rest areas and public transportation such as on buses and trains. In order to nourish themselves and loved ones while traveling in the south, women prepared meals packed in old shoeboxes.

In order to nourish themselves and loved ones while traveling in the south, women prepared meals packed in old shoeboxes.

As a way of commemorating the resolve and resourcefulness of travelers during segregated times, created a modern-day lunch shoebox adorned with inspirational stories trailblazing Americans.

In order to nourish themselves and loved ones while traveling in the south, women prepared meals packed in old If

As a way of commemorating the resolve and resourcefulness of black travelers during segregated times, we created a modern-day lunch shoebox adorned with inspirational stories of trailblazing Americans.

In order to nourish themselves and loved ones while in the south, women prepared meals packed in old shoeboxes.

If you’re planning an event for your company, community or classroom, our shoeboxes make the perfect lunch and learn. Boxes may also be purchased without a meal.

If you’re planning an event for your company, community or classroom, our shoeboxes make the perfect lunch and learn. Boxes may also be purchased without a meal. Please contact 248.208.1680 to order your History in a Box today!

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Please contact 248.208.1680 to order your History in a Box today!

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As a way of commemorating resolve and resourcefulness travelers during segregated created a modern-day lunch adorned with inspirational trailblazing Americans.

If you’re planning an event for your company, community or classroom, our shoeboxes make the perfect lunch learn. Boxes may also be purchased without a meal.

Please contact 248.208.1680 to order your History

to order your History

Comerica Ends Year with Holiday Community Initiatives

The holiday season for many is a time of great cheer, to spend with family, reflect upon the year and look forward to what lies ahead.

For Comerica Cares volunteers this is a special time to give back and to help others. From Thanksgiving to the new Year, Comerica colleagues spent hundreds of hours supporting several community organizations in Detroit and throughout the state of Michigan.

partnered with the IMAGINE Mentoring Program of Michigan to support their annual holiday giveback program in support of low-income students in Wayne and Macomb counties.

The program provides students with a healthy catered lunch, gift cards and toys in celebration of the holiday season. The program was created to ensure that underserved students have a wonderful experience during the holidays.

IMAGINE Mentoring Program is to teach young women who have experienced trauma to imagine the power of their potential, increase their self-esteem through self-awareness, and encourage them to pursue their dreams.

“Volunteering and sponsoring at this event were so rewarding.” said LaShawn Jimenez, Comerica Bank Vice President Trust Advisor and co-chair of Comerica African American Business Resource Group. “This organization is teaching young women how to deal with day-to-day life experiences. Helping them with their self-esteem through self-awareness.

Jimenez continued, “The day that I volunteered, I realized that while helping these young ladies it was helping me as well. It allowed me to see that I have so much to give as I was once one of these young girls, dealing with trauma but turned it to success.

In mentoring the students, Jimenez told them to start each day believing in themselves and encourage them to bet on themselves to win.

“We need to break the barriers and equip them with the power and knowledge for succession,” said Jimenez.

The mission of the IMAGINE Mentoring Program is to teach young women who have experienced trauma to imagine the power of their potential, increase their self-esteem through self-awareness, and encourage them to pursue their dreams while overcoming the obstacles they face in their lives.

Since 2020, Comerica has contributed over $40,000 to IMAGINE Mentoring Program, along with volunteer support. In 2023, Comerica honored IMAGINE Mentoring Program during Negro Leagues Weekend for their contributions to young women. IMAGINE Mentoring Program was also a recipient of donations made through the Comerica First Down partnership with the Detroit Lions during the 2022 season.

The vision of the IMAGINE Mentoring Program is to become a global initiative that meets the needs of young women around the world who desire change, by providing impactful programming, mentoring, education, and empowerment.

Hispanic BRG Holiday Contributions

One Dec. 14, Comerica Bank partnered with the Latino Press to support the annual Latino Press Foundation’s Holiday Food Box Project. For the last 17 years through our Michigan Hispanic Business Resource Group (BRG), Comerica has served as a proud sponsor of the Latino Press Foundation’s Holiday Food Box Project. Each year, the Latino Press Foundation’s community partners come together to donate hundreds of boxes of food to Southwest Detroit families and seniors in need. This year Comerica Cares colleagues again rose to the helping the organization box more than 12,000 healthy food items that resulted in 270 food boxes. Events such as the Latino Press Foundation’s

Vice President and Small Business Banking Group Manager Yolanda Serra speaks at the Latino Press Foundation’s Holiday Food Box Project.

Holiday Food Box Project help provide much needed relief for families in need. Just two days later, Comerica’s Michigan Hispanic BRG, behind the leadership of Vice President and Small Business Banking Group Manager Yolanda Serra and Assistant Vice President Corporate Quality Specialist Anna Guerra, helped local students at Hoover Elementary celebrate the holidays by hosting a Las Posadas / Holiday Cookies event with 290 students. Los Posadas celebrated across Mexico and the United States, it marks the beginning of the holiday season. A typical Las Posadas celebration would include processions of carolers, food, drinks, piñatas, and music.

Harmony Horizons Thanksgiving Concert

Through Comerica’s Michigan Comerica Asian and Pacific Islander Network Employee Resource Group, the bank served as sponsor of the Harmony Horizons Thanksgiving Concert held at Berman Center for the Performing Arts in West Bloomfield.

The concert featured several renowned vocal artists: Juliet Petrus, Yongzhao Yu, Jonathan Lasch and Shuping Ma performing arias by Puccini, Verdi, and a few traditional Chinese songs in their native language.

“It was a remarkable celebration of music, dance, culture, and community, bringing together a diverse audience united by a shared appreciation of the arts,” said Jaime Zhang, Comerica Bank Cyber Strategy Program Manager and co-chair of Michigan CAPI ERG.

From page A-3

nerstone Schools, Joy Academy, Federal Reserve and Alternatives for Girls, among several other.

Given its effectiveness to immerse students in going through life decision making, Comerica and IBIG Institute partnered in November and December to take SITRW to other parts of the state.

“Comerica and the BIG Institute have teamed up to provide the most realistic and engaging financial literacy workshops to underserved communities in West Michigan, aiming to uplift these communities toward financial prosperity,” said Dumas, BIG Institute founder.

In November, Comerica Bank colleagues joined Dumas and her team to facilitate a pop-up financial education workshop at Northeast Elementary School in Jackson that mirrored real-life experiences with Birthing Innovation Genuis (BIG) Institute.

To close out the year in December, BIG Institute and Comerica held SITRW workshops at Kalamazoo Hillside Middle School and with Grand Rapids Public Schools.

“Together, we are building lasting relationships with schools and organizations, supported by Comerica’s local banking centers, which contribute their expertise through our workshops for students and parents in these communities,” said Dumas. “The partnership with Comerica has evolved into a deeply meaningful and impactful mission that has strengthened our purpose.”

JA Park Provides Immerses Students into Hand-On Learning Labs

To deepen Comerica’s financial education commitment, the bank launched a new partnership with Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes based in Grand Rapids.

Comerica experience with Junior Achievement programming, specifically with in-person simulations, has found success with Junior Achievement of Southeast Michigan and its JA Finance Park located at 577 Larned St. in downtown Detroit.

The results of that partnership encouraged Comerica’s external affairs teams to launch the new partnership in Grand Rapids.

Junior Achievement USA offers youth the opportunity to gain experience and develop skillsets needed to attain economic success, as well as future planning to make smart choices about academics and finances. It primarily focuses on readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy to guide students in their 21st century work and life.

JA Finance Park is Junior Achievement’s capstone program for personal financial planning and career exploration. For Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes. That take place at the Huizenga Family JA Free Enterprise Center that provides immerses students in three experiential learning labs.

On Dec. 10, Comerica and Comerica Financial Education Brigade volunteers hosted students from East Kentwood High School to assist them in making financial decisions based on realistic scenarios.

“Comerica Bank made it possible to serve over 100 students from East Kentwood High School thanks to their engagement in JA Finance Park, working as volunteers and engaging with students about important topics like budgeting and career exploration,” said Ali Whitley, Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes, Capstone Coordinator.

“Without corporate volunteers, our program would not be able to be run to its full extent. Places like Comerica Bank make our purpose to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy - a reality!”

Whitley explained how students enjoyed working with and interacting with Comerica volunteers, as they were engaging, kind and personable with the students and helped them think deeply about the possible paths in the future.

“Comerica Bank’s dedication to empowering the next generation shines through their support of JA Finance Park, where their engagement helps bring budgeting and career planning to life,” said Whiley. ‘Corporate volunteers like these are the cornerstone of our mission to prepare young people for success in a global economy.”

Programs like JA Finance Park and Surviving in the Real World are instrumental in equipping the next generation with the tools they need for future success. Comerica’s external affairs team takes exceptional pride in cultivating these meaning partnerships because of the impact these programs generate and the success they achieve as youth learn about financial wellness on higher and deeper levels.

These partnerships and immersive experiences drive greater results for the future.

“Comerica is deeply grateful to the Big Institute and Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes for their exceptional dedication to empowering our youth,” said Kevin Watkins, Comerica Bank vice President - External Market Manager and National African America Business Development Manager. “Their innovative programs and realistic simulations provide invaluable opportunities for young people to gain a deeper understanding of real-world experiences, financial literacy, and budgeting.”

Comerica

IMAGINE Mentoring Program youth at the Annual Holiday Giveback.

Comerica Bank Vice President Trust Advisor and co-chair of Comerica African American Business Resource Group LaShawn Jimenez speaks at the IMAGINE Mentoring Program of Michigan Annual Holiday Giveback. IMAGINE Annual Holiday Giveback

Youth who are part of the IMAGINE Mentoring Program show off their creative skills at the Annual Holiday Giveback.

Crafts created by IMAGINE Mentoring Program participants help inspire them to reach their potential.

. L ife

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Voice Earned Posthumous Grammy Win for “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam”

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

When the name Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. comes up, it’s easy to picture him standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, his voice echoing the words “I have a dream” to a crowd of thousands. But imagine this: instead of a march or a sermon, his name is called on a stage at the Grammy Awards. In 1971, three years after his assassination, Dr. King posthumously earned one of music’s highest honors, a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Recording for his searing anti-war speech, “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam.”

In 1967, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered the powerful sermon that won him the Grammy, “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam,” at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. In it, he called the war “unjust, evil, and futile” and “an enemy of the poor.” He also criticized the moral and economic costs of the Vietnam War while condemning the broader injustices within American society.

Dr. King’s impact was recognized significantly at the 13th Annual Grammy Awards in 1971. He was awarded a Grammy posthumously for “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam” in the Spoken Word category. This achievement highlighted his courage to speak out against issues beyond civil rights. In his speech, Dr. King called for a major change in America, criticizing what he described as the “giant triplets” of racism, greed, and militarism.

Motown Record Corporation and Black Forum Records published the vinyl album. Junius Griffin, who worked as Berry Gordy’s administrative assistant at Motown Records, produced this album. Griffin would become the Director of Publicity at International Talent Management. He worked alongside King, later to implement the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change following King’s assassination. Griffin was also the President of the Beverly Hills Hollywood Chapter of the NAACP.

His message encouraged people to rethink the nation’s priorities and values. King’s opposition to the Vietnam War highlighted his holistic vision of justice, linking the struggle for civil rights at home to broader global injustices.

Dr. King Jr. winning a Grammy is a powerful reminder of how words can spark change. Although he is most famous for his role in the civil rights movement, this award from the Recording Academy shows just how much his voice has influenced culture as a whole. His famous speeches, captured in recordings, still inspire people today, encouraging everyone to strive for a fairer and more just world.

This wasn’t the first time Dr. King was nominated. His first Grammy nomination at the 6th Annual Grammy Awards in 1964 for his powerful recording, “We Shall Overcome (The March on Washington…August 28, 1963).” This recording was an authorized broadcast of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, where over 250,000 people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial. It captured the essence of that historic day, including King’s inspiring “I Have a Dream” speech, which continues to resonate as

Black Artists Archive Launches with $125K Funding to Preserve Black Art Legacy

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

A groundbreaking new institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating Black art history and visual culture has officially opened its doors. The Black Artists Archive announced its launch today, along with the receipt of $125,000 in seed funding from The Terra Foundation for American Art.

The funding will be used to preserve and archive The Black Canon, a significant collection of works amassed by collector James E. Wheeler. With this initiative, the Black Artists Archive aims to safeguard these critical pieces of Black artistic and cultural heritage for future generations.

The funding will specifically support the preservation and archiving of The Black Canon, a pivotal collection of works amassed by renowned collector James E. Wheeler. This initiative aims to ensure that the art, stories, and cultural legacies represented in The Black Canon are not only safeguarded but also shared with a global audience.

Dr. Kelli Morgan, Founding Executive Director and CEO of the Black Artists Archive emphasized that the organization’s mission is to create a space where the legacy of Black artists is not only recognized but actively preserved and shared with the world.

“The Black Canon is an integral part of that legacy, and we are committed to ensuring its accessibility for scholars, students, artists, and the public alike,” Morgan said.

The Black Artists Archive is launching programs to highlight Black artists and archiving traditions. Among these is the Black Curatorial Institute, which began in November 2024, providing critical resources and training for emerging Black curators. Another key initiative is Angles & Archives, a community dialogue series created in partnership with Someday Gallery & Bakehouse, fostering conversations around Black art and its preservation.

The organization also plans to host workshops, artist residencies, public lectures, and exhibitions, offering diverse audiences opportunities to engage deeply with Black art and culture. These programs are part of a larger mission to make the stories of Black artists,

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

both historical and contemporary, more accessible and widely celebrated.

Beyond its public-facing initiatives, the Black Artists Archive is committed to building collaborative relationships with institutions, scholars, and artists to ensure the accurate and respectful representation of Black art history. Through these efforts, the Archive aims to challenge the systemic erasure of Black contributions to the art world and foster a more inclusive cultural narrative.

The preservation of The Black Canon marks the Archive’s first major undertaking. The collection is curated over decades by Wheeler and comprises a rich tapestry of artworks, documents, and artifacts that provide invaluable insights into Black art history. By archiving this collection, the institution hopes to provide a resource to inspire and inform future generations of artists, researchers, and enthusiasts.

“The Black Canon is an integral part of that legacy, and we are committed to ensuring its accessibility for scholars, students, artists, and the public alike.”

Dr. Kelli Morgan

Founding Executive Director and CEO of

As the Black Artists Archive begins its journey, it invites supporters, collaborators, and communities to join its mission. With ambitious goals and a growing slate of programs, the institution is poised to become a cornerstone for the study, appreciation, and preservation of Black art and culture worldwide.

For more information about the Black Artists Archive and its initiatives, visit https://www.blackartistsarchive.org.

Images courtesy of Edens Gatson

Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Why I Oppose The War In Vietnam Vinyl’ [LP]

Image courtesy of Black Artists Archive

Lights. Camera. Empowerment!

New Black Women-Led Independent Film Company Revolutionizes Detroit’s Creative Scene

By Sydni Jackson SPECIAL TO MICHIGAN CHRONICLE

Her Patio Productions LLC (a 2025 Native Detroiter Magazine honoree and recipient) is on the mission to create an experience that illuminates voice, embodies creativity, and fosters opportunity for women of color through a multitude of artistic expressions.

HPP (Her Patio Productions) was founded in 2024 when six film and theatre visionaries—Tonja Brown, Ebony Tates, Sydni Jackson, Britney Winn, JeZar Riches, and Chiquita Parker—responded to Deborah Lane Spencer’s call to collaborate on innovative, impactful projects for film, television, and theatre.

It was during a relaxing gathering under a patio that the group outlined their strategies and objectives. Her Patio Productions consists of like-minded women of excellence who currently work tirelessly in the film and theatre industries, both in front of and behind the camera, with over 300+ projects under our belts if combined. The goal was to join forces and create a significant impact

within the industry and the goal was met and superseded.

Fifty-one days later, Her Patio Productions greenlit their first feature film, “Say Grace.” It was there, on Nov. 7, 2024, that history was made where the first all-African American female crew and production company in Detroit had gone into production. This film has already created buzz in the city of Detroit and across the country. “Say Grace” will be premiering in Spring 2025.

So, what can Her Patio Productions LLC do for you? They are truly a company that does it all. Their expertise includes writing, developing, and producing television and film projects. In addition, they teach entertainment courses and host and produce events covering a multitude of artistic expressions, music scoring, crew production services, and so much more.

Contact them for any and all inquiries at (313) 915-0123, email at herpatioproductions@gmail.com, and follow HPP on Instagram at @herpatioproductions and @ herpatiofilms.

Dr. King's Anti-War Speech

From page B-1

one of the most significant speeches in American history, calling for justice and equality for all.

The broadcast, which also featured performances by legendary artists like Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Marian Anderson, became a cultural touchstone, encapsulating the hope and determination of the civil rights movement.

Five years later, King

was nominated again at the 11th Grammy Awards for his album “I Have a Dream: The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 1929–1968.” A year after his assassination, this album highlighted his famous speech from the March on Washington. It was released by 20th Century Fox Records and included voices from wellknown civil rights leaders like A. Philip Randolph, John Lewis, and Whitney

M. Young Jr. This helped to show the unity of the civil rights movement.

This year, as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it’s important to take a moment to appreciate his speeches that have earned him Grammy nominations and wins. These works are not just pieces of history; they are powerful examples of how words can influence our world and continue to do so. Dr. King’s voice, full of hope and strength, inspires us all to continue to fight for justice today.

Cancer Care Inspired by You

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Mr. Creole

From page B-1

days. A friend of mine suggested selling lunches at work. I said, okay, I’ll try it out one day,” Gatson said.

“So I went to work the next day and told people I would have lunch the following day. I took their names and orders, charging $15 a plate.”

Gatson recalls his coworkers awing over the food and asking him why he works at the plant when he could be cooking and living his dream after they taste his wings, rice and beans, salad, and plantain. The salad is called Picklese, a traditional Haitian dish resembling cabbage.

“My coworkers would say to me, what are you doing here? This is not your place; you have wisdom for your future. And that’s how Mr. Creole was started.”

nowned artists and entertainers, including Detroit’s own Kash Doll, Shenseea, Rema, and Uncle Waffles, to name a few, attracting a culturally diverse audience.

“I was able to bring my country to the Afro Beats festival,” Gatson said.

“Some of the guests ordered rice and beans and my curry chicken. It’s spicy, and there is ginger. Some of them said they hadn’t had some of these dishes before. Everyone enjoyed the food.”

The Mr. Ceole menu celebrates Gaston’s heritage. Every dish tells a story of Haitian hospitality, from Jerk pasta bursting with bold flavors to the Vodoo burger steeped in tradition. The signature Haitian fried chicken and oxtails are crowd favorites, drawing long lines of eager customers at festivals, pop-ups, and neighborhood events.

Gatson was one of the Black-owned businesses located in the NFL draft’s footprint. During the summer months downtown, he was also on rotation with the popular food truck park in Campus Martius.

Gatson was also chosen to serve the celebrity talent at Detroit’s Afro Nation festival last summer. This vibrant event celebrated Afrobeat culture and featured a lineup of re-

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The food truck sources ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting Detroit-area farmers and producers. This commitment to quality and sustainability is one more way Gaston gives back to the community that has embraced him and his cuisine.

Through partnerships with local organizations, Mr. Ceole also participates in charitable initiatives, providing meals to those in need and supporting community events. Gaston’s generosity reflects his belief that food is a universal language of care and compassion.

The buzz surrounding Mr. Ceole continues to grow, with Gaston eyeing opportunities to expand his reach. Plans for a brickand-mortar restaurant are on the horizon, a move that will allow even more people to experience the flavors and hospitality that define his brand. Despite his rising success, Gaston remains grounded in his purpose but wants to expand.

“My goal right now is to have a restaurant,” Gatson said.

“I would also like to operate two food trucks. I already have one, but my focus now is looking for a building to buy or lease in the city limits. I plan to focus on the Metro area once I get the funding support to do so.”

Detroiters Helping Each Other:

‘It’s just straight

By Amy Kuras

Metro Detroit is blessed with a community of incredible people creating a better world for all of us. They range from highly professional funders and executives crafting strategies to ameliorate complicated social problems, to the hands-on staffers that carry out those plans, at organizations small and large.

And then there are the neighborhood heroes, the people who simply see a need in their fellow human beings and do their best to meet it with little more than a few donations and some creative thinking. They’re anchors of their communities, the first person everyone calls after a setback or a crisis because they’ll be able to cobble together resources and provide a hand up.

Jessica M. Ramirez is such a person. She started Detroiters Helping Each Other as a Facebook page in 2013, as a way to formalize community work she was already been doing in Southwest Detroit. The page’s name explains exactly what it does: put out requests for help or offer resources that can help others.

Ramirez’s inspiration is simple. “I was 14, homeless and pregnant and didn’t have any help, so over the years as I had my kids,

groundwork.’

“The thing I tell everybody is it’s the community taking care of each other,”...“It’s almost all Detroit (people): no grants, no state funding, no city (funds). It’s just straight ground work.”

– Jessica M. Ramirez

I always had a networking system,” she says. She became a person other people knew could find resources, and she used social networking and her personal relationships to meet those needs.

It’s as simple as people calling her and asking if she knows someone who needs the nearly new coat their son just grew out of or the couch they aren’t using and then connecting them with someone she knows who needs just such a thing.

“Because I grew up having nothing,

Kevin’s Song’s 9th Annual Suicide Conference Highlights Suicide Prevention and Cultural Barriers in the Black Community

By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER

Wayne County-based nonprofit Kevin’s Song will host its 9th Annual Conference on Suicide from January 23-25, marking Michigan’s largest gathering focused on suicide prevention and survivor support. The event will unite educators, mental health professionals, students, business leaders, and survivors to address one of the state’s most urgent public health crises and work toward actionable solutions.

This year’s conference theme, “Creating and Supporting Lives Worth Living,” reflects the organization’s mission to explore strategies to prevent suicide and support those impacted by it. Keynote presentations and breakout sessions will address suicide prevention through multiple lenses, providing attendees with insights into mental health, cultural barriers, and survivor resilience.

Among this year’s distinguished speakers is Jennifer Johnson, who sits on the Board of the American Foundation Society for Suicide Prevention, whose work focuses on addressing suicide within the Black community. Her advocacy stems from her personal experience with her godfather, who died by suicide in 1988, and a deep commitment to dismantling cultural taboos that hinder conversations about mental health.

tempt suicide than their non-Hispanic white peers. Johnson’s work addresses these disparities by fostering culturally competent mental health resources and encouraging open dialogue in Black communities.

“That stigma we carry a lot of times is intergenerational trauma we’ve been carrying for years, even before we were born, and trying to work through some of what we have encountered over the years in our communities, can be a challenge,” Johnson said.

Kevin’s Song was established in 2013 by Gail and John Urso, compassionate residents of Grosse Pointe, who faced the devastating loss of their beloved son, Kevin, to suicide. In the years following this tragic event, the organization has evolved into a significant source of hope and support for countless individuals and families grappling with the effects of suicide.

“I’ll talk about the whole scope of suicide among Black and African American communities. I just want to speak about that in general, and touch on how that relates with the State of Michigan,” Johnson said.

“We’ll go into understanding how a lot of the basis of this, stems from racial and systemic, factors, and it impacts our community in ways in which it doesn’t impact other communities.”

The statistics emphasize the urgency of Johnnson’s mission. In 2022, suicide was the third leading cause of death among Black or African Americans aged 10 to 24. Additionally, Black males experienced a suicide rate more than four times higher than Black females in 2020. Despite these sobering figures, the overall suicide rate for Black Americans remains 50% lower than that of the non-Hispanic white population.

However, young Black females face their own challenges. In 2021, Black girls in grades 9–12 were 60% more likely to at-

Kevin’s Song aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and provide valuable resources to those in need. Its annual conference has become a prominent event, attracting leading experts, mental health professionals, and passionate advocates from Michigan and across the nation. This collaborative gathering serves as a vital platform to discuss and address the complexities surrounding suicide prevention, intervention, and bereavement support. Through workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities, Kevin’s Song fosters an environment where knowledge and experiences are shared, ultimately striving to reduce stigma and create a more supportive community for those impacted by suicide.

Kevin’s Song’s annual conference is a rallying point for Michigan residents and organizations to confront the suicide crisis together. From mental health professionals to survivors of suicide loss and attempt survivors, the event provides tools, resources, and hope to everyone involved.

The 2025 conference will provide a valuable opportunity for individuals to come together and exchange new ideas, all focused on making a meaningful impact in Michigan and beyond. This event will emphasize the importance of addressing the issue of suicide and will offer resources to support efforts in tackling this serious public health concern.

For more information about the conference, visit https://www.kevinssong.org.

people would reach out to me and say, ‘Do you know anybody (who needs something),’ and I’d say ‘Drop it off’.” She and her team keep a list of requests they have received and match them with donations as they come in. Anything that isn’t immediately needed goes on the side of her house, and she puts out a call on the Facebook page for people to come get the items if they need them. Their model is based on simple, grassroots mutual aid.

“The thing I tell everybody is it’s the community taking care of each other,” Ramirez says. “It’s almost all Detroit (people): no grants, no state funding, no city (funds). It’s just straight ground work.”

Ramirez actually started the page with the intention of helping animals, and it’s still a big part of what Detroiters Helping Each Other does. Three weeks of the month, she and the team accepted 10 pallets of donated pet food and supplies delivered to her house. People struggling to keep their animal friends fed pull up, team members ask how many animals they have and what they need, and members pop food and supplies right into the person’s trunk.

Eventually she branched out to find-

ing food for people because she realized that people who were asking for help for their pets likely needed some themselves. The first year they provided Thanksgiving dinner for several families. They also host a community potluck regularly throughout the summer months, providing food and entertainment for children and a sense of non-judgmental, come-as-you-are fellowship for the adults.

It’s that openness that defines Detroiters Helping Each Other’s approach. Ramirez says the team that has evolved around her includes former gang members, people who have been incarcerated, and folks who have needed help themselves and now have something to give. Staying rooted in community is extremely important to her, she says, as a way to build trust with the people who come to her for help.

“If you haven’t actually survived down here and struggled, you don’t understand it,” she says. “A lot of people are scared to ask for help – ‘what if they call CPS on me?’ No, I’m not about that. We’re here to make their lives better before the system would get involved.”

That mindset extends to her “day job” as parent outreach coordinator at Bennett Elementary School. She’s organized coat drives, provided shoes for kids whose feet are literally bursting out of the ones they have, and sourced more than 70 air mattresses for students who needed them. With the sharp rise in prices for food and housing after the pandemic, many families have been forced to double up with friends or relatives and that can leave children without a bed of their own.

Although much of her work is focused on her Springwells neighborhood, Ramirez has attracted partners from beyond the city. Woodhaven Mayor Patricia Odette has become a valued supporter, providing soccer nets for Bennett and supplies for animals. Tittle Brothers Construction has also provided a lot of help by donating toys during the holidays.

Going forward, Ramirez says she would like to have a building, so that she can do assessments and help people who need temporary shelter, and to partner with the City of Detroit to expand the resources she can provide.

When that day comes, she still wants to keep her hands-on, personal approach.

“You get to interact (doing it this way), and when you become big and corporate you lose that. Don’t sit behind a desk. Be there in the field with all the blood, sweat and tears,” she says.

Resilient Neighborhoods is a reporting and engagement series that examines how Detroit residents and community development organizations are working together to strengthen local neighborhoods. This story was originally produced and published by Model D Media and is reprinted in New Michigan Media newspapers through a partnership supported by the Kresge Foundation.

Photos by Jonah Clynes.

AN EDUCATION IS NEVER MORE POWERFUL THAN WHEN IT’S AFFORDABLE.

At Wayne State University, it’s always been our mission to make college accessible for all by making it affordable for all. That’s why we offer programs like the Wayne State Guarantee, the Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge and a range of merit-based scholarships, all providing financial assistance to any student willing to put in the effort to earn a degree. And it’s working: With a combination of these programs, last fall, 6 out of 10 of our incoming first-year students attended Wayne State tuition free. That makes earning a Wayne State degree more powerful than ever.

BECOME A WARRIOR

Submit your application by April 1 to be eligible for fall 2025 first-year scholarships and by Aug. 1 for fall 2025 transfer scholarships.

Apply for free with the application fee waiver code WSU2025 at wayne.edu/apply

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Defend Your Home from Harsh Winter Conditions

7 pro tips to avoid long-term damage

(FAMILY FEATURES)

Harsh winter elements like snow, ice and wind can wreak havoc on your home –if it’s not properly prepared and maintained. Make home maintenance both indoors and out a priority this winter to ensure it’s safe, warm, secure and operating efficiently.

While winterizing can be a daunting task, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need help installing gutter guards, sealing cracks in your concrete or ensuring your sump pump is ready for winter, the experts at Thrasher Foundation Repair provide precise repairs for every project

They’ve seen it all through 50 years of serving more than 150,000 happy customers –from basement flooding to damaged concrete – and know how to prevent these issues before they start. Recognized with the International Torch Award for Ethics by the Better Business Bureau Midwest Plains, they set the standard for excellence in their field as a trusted industry leader in home protection.

“Winter can really take a toll on your home, but a few proactive steps now can save you headaches later,” CEO Dan Thrasher said. “At Thrasher Foundation Repair, we help protect what matters most – your home and peace of mind. We’re happy to share our pro tips to help you keep your home safe, dry and ready for whatever winter throws your way.”

It all begins with homeowners taking proactive steps to recognize small problems before they spiral out of control. Use this checklist from Thrasher’s experts to prepare your home for a warm, secure and stress-free winter season.

Clean and

A Musical Retelling of a Mesmerizing True Story of Murder, Courage, and Dignity.

“Ruby is a five-star triumph! It’s gripping story makes it a must-see theatrical experience.”

- Vince Paul, President & Artistic Director, Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts

LIVE OAK, FLORIDA, 1952. THE STORY BEHIND THE SCANDAL.

Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making! “Ruby”, an electrifying new musical destined for Broadway, premieres at the Music Hall, February 7 – 9! Experience the complicated true story of murder that shook one small Florida town in 1952. With soul-stirring music and a gripping narrative, “Ruby” will move you and leave you breathless. Don’t wait! Get your tickets now at Ticketmaster.com. This isn’t just a show; it’s a journey into the sometimes-dark heart of American history.

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LYRICS BY MICHAEL JACOBS | BOOK BY NATE JACOBS & MICHAEL JACOBS MUSIC BY NATE JACOBS, NEHEMIAH LUCKETT, BRENNAN STYLEZ & ANTONIO WIMBERLY DIRECTED BY NATE JACOBS