MC Digital Edition 9.20.23

New Generation of Black Tennis Stars

COMERICA HOMEFRONT UAW Triple Strike Against Detroit Automakers

Comerica Celebrates 35 Years of Supporting the Nation’s Largest UNCF Walk for Education Scholarship Fundraiser

Michigan Chronicle

All Black Everything:

A Night of Elegance and Excellence at the 10th Annual Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40

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.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

troiters. The symbolism of Black beekeepers revitalizing their city is a powerful testament to the resilience and ingenuity of our community.

niably commendable.

In 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 professionals.

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.

As the night unfolded, we had the privilege of honoring other outstanding individuals, each carving their own path to success. Clement “Fame” Brown, the creative mind behind Three Thirteen Detroit’s Brand Name, received the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Brown’s commitment to empowering the city through fashion and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark.

“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 Visits This Summer and No Shootings

Can Reparative Investment Finally Heal the Wounds Left by I-375?

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

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

“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.”

DPD Chief James White Says Increased Police Presence Culled Violence

By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR

ness district that had been the lifeblood of the community.

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.

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.

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-

“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.

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

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.

All Hands On Deck to Combat Homelessness

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.

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.

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

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

By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR

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 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.

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.

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.

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 off guard.

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

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.

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.

Meagan DunnJulie Schneider

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-

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 settings.

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

Support for the helpline comes from the Gilbert Family Foundation, 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 need can easily find assistance.

But now, after decades of enduring the 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.

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 warm weekend.”

Chief White attributes the violence in Greektown to a combination of weather conditions and a surge in population.

Fueled by more than $100 million from 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.”

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.

Black Resilience Amidst Gentrification: Reclaiming Detroit’s Legacy

By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

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.

“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 help them.”

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.

What a Federal Government Shutdown Could Mean for Detroiters?

“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

From the days of the Great Migration when thousands of Black families flocked to Detroit in search of jobs and a better life, to the pivotal role they played in the city’s cultural and musical heritage, Black Detroiters have left an indelible mark on the city. However, in recent years, Detroit has experienced significant gentrification, which has raised concerns about the displacement of long-standing Black residents. Similar to a setting sun, there’s a rising spirit, and Black Detroiters are reclaiming their place in the city, despite the challenges and west sides. Over time, these neighborhoods became centers of Black culture and entrepreneurship.

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

According to Historian Jamon Jordon Black resilience in the city has roots that extend far before the Great Migration and will persist

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.

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.

because of discrimination, but they were also coming because Black people was doing some stuff. When did Black people start doing things in the city? They started doing things in this area in the 1800’s. In the 1800’s the major thing that they were doing in Detroit is they were the leaders in the fight against slavery. The Underground Railroad is the root in the city of Detroit to all of this Black innovation that you see coming later.”

“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

long after our current phase of gentrification.

“Black people were coming to Detroit because Black churches were here, black schools were here, and its was Black businesses here,” said Jordon. “They were coming of course

Musical legends like Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, and the Motown sound emerged from Detroit, providing a soundtrack for the civil rights movement and inspiring generations. Motown Records, founded by Berry Gordy Jr., was not just a record label but a symbol of Black excellence and empowerment.

However, as Detroit faced economic decline and population loss in the late 20th century, many

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

Roots.

COMERICA HOMEFRONT

Comerica’s “Feet On The Street”

Recognizes Honey Bee La Colmena Marketa Southwest Detroit Staple Since 1956

Southwest Detroit is a neighborhood rich with history and culture--and one name that is synonymous with the area is Honey Bee La Colmena Market.

The market is known for being sparkling clean, brightly lit, and full of unique and fresh produce including items that are unique to South and Central America. Not to mention their house-made, secret family recipe chorizo.

Honey Bee Market was founded in 1956 by Tammy Alfaro-Koehler’s grandparents, and Tammy grew up working at the family business. In 1996, Tammy and her husband Ken Koehler purchased the business from her mother, making Honey Bee Market a third-generation neighborhood grocer.

It is a full-service market that specializes in fresh produce, fresh-cut meat counter, groceries, and house-prepared foods along with daily specials. Honey Bee Market has been serving the local community with a unique variety and large selection of Hispanic ingredients and products for more than 65 years now.

“I believe in our whole team,” Alfaro-Koehler says. “We do a lot of hard work, not just my husband and I, but our whole team. And we are like family. We go through our ups and downs, but it’s mostly good because we try to work together as a team. We have

people who have been with us for 20-plus years. That means that we jump in to help each other and make sure that we have a family with work and our family lives.”

Earlier this year, Comerica Bank named Honey Bee La Colmena Market as the “Feet on the Street” winner for the Southeast Michigan market.

The “Feet on the Street” contest was held during Small Business Week, April 30-May 6, 2023, to recognize small businesses making a difference and impact in their communities. Comerica Small Business team members visited their customers to say hello and thank them for being a valued customer.

Honey Bee Market was selected as the most unique small business story submission in the Southeastern Michigan market after being selected by a Comerica executive panel.

Meghan Storey, SVP-Michigan Director of Small Business, speaks highly of the market and of the Koehler family. “Tammy and Ken purchased the business way back in 1996, they have a daughter who is poised to take over after them. That would make them a fourth-generation small business--which is amazing.”

Comerica Celebrates 35 Years of Supporting the Nation’s Largest UNCF Walk for Education Scholarship Fundraiser

Since UNCF was founded in 1944, it has raised over $5 billion and helped graduate more than 500,000 students from college. In the academic year 2021-22, Michigan students received $1,365,546 from UNCF-managed scholarships that assisted them in getting to and through school.

Once again this year, Comerica partnered with the Detroit Chapter of the UNCF to sponsor the annual Walk for Education at Belle Isle Park.

“Comerica has been thrilled to be a participant for the 35 years of (the walk’s) existence,” says Marvin Rushing, a District Manager with the bank. “It’s an opportunity for us to reach back and be a force for good, which is one of our core values, to make sure we create opportunities for young men and women in the state of Michigan to further their education, and be able to give back to the communities we serve, and hopefully even find some future employees for Comerica Bank.”

UNCF works tirelessly to empower historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) by changing the HBCU narrative across the nation and helping equip students with the resources necessary to transition into and graduate from college — and ultimately succeed in the workforce.

“The 35th Anniversary UNCF Detroit Walk for Education continues to raise more funds than any other Walk within the UNCF network (32 Walks across the country) because of the longstanding partnerships with companies like Comerica Bank,” explains Patrice Neal Area Development Director, UNCF Michigan. “Funds raised through the Detroit Walk are needed to help fulfill our mission of support to our member HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities) and to help Michigan students pursue their educational endeavors and prepare for active participation in society.”

Neal adds, “The support of the Michigan community makes this work possible.”

UNCF HBCUs need help during the best of times because of persistent funding gaps. UNCF works to provide the support they need to enable more students pursue their educational endeavors and graduate from college prepared for leadership roles, competitive employment and active participation in society.

Honey Bee La Colmena Market is located at 2443 Bagley St.

Honey Bee La Colmena Market owners Tammy AlfaroKoehler and Ken Koehler.

Honey Bee La Colmena Market employee stocks shelves.

Comerica Retail Bank colleagues and members of the bank’s Small Business Banking team pictured with Honey Bee Market owners Ken Koehler and Tammy Alfaro-Koehler (center) at the Fort-14th Banking Center.

Comerica Cares volunteers prior to walking Belle Isle at the 35th Annual UNCF Detroit Walk for Education.

UNCF Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer Maurice E. Jenkins, Jr., with Area Development Director Patrice M. Neal (left), addresses participants at the 35th Annual Detroit Walk for Education. Detroit’s chapter raises more funds supporting college scholarships than any of the UNCF’s more than 30 Walk for Education events across the country.

Comerica Cares volunteers at the 2023 UNCF Detroit Walk for Education.

Comerica First Down Program with Detroit Lions Impacting Community for Seventh Year

Collaboration to assist 10 nonprofit organizations serving Southeast Michigan Comerica Bank and the Detroit Lions are collaborating for the seventh consecutive year on a season-long initiative that assists transformative and impactful community partners throughout southeast Michigan. The Comerica First Down Program ensures that every Lions first down gained during the 2023 season at Ford Field will stretch well beyond 10 yards and reach those in need in the community.

“The First Down Program has been instrumental in helping numerous community partners serve the unmet needs of our residents, families, and neighborhoods,” said Linda Nosegbe, Comerica Bank National Community Impact Manager. “Our partnership with the Lions has become a vital resource in not only generating funds to assist in improving our communities, but this platform has allowed us to help elevate and celebrate the great work that they are achieving to uplift those in need.”

During every Lions home game this season, a Metro Detroit philanthropic organization will benefit by receiving $100 for each Lions first down gained. This year’s program includes all eight regular season home games and re-launched during the team’s two preseason games hosted at Ford Field.

“It is an honor to continue the First Down Program with a partner as community focused as Comerica,” said Detroit Lions Vice President of Detroit Lions Foundation and Community Relations Roxanne Caine. “We are inspired watching how the dedication and success of our players on the field can provide support for nonprofits dedicated to the success of individuals right here in southeast Michigan.”

On Sept. 17, the Lions will host the Seattle Seahawks in the home opener at Ford Field, and the Comerica Lions First Down Program will support SER Metro-Detroit Jobs for Progress, Inc. In 2022, SER Metro-Detroit celebrated serving the community for 50 years.

Located at seven different locations in and around Detroit, including its main office at 9301 Michigan Avenue, SER Metro-Detroit offers diverse programming that includes literacy and education, job readiness skills training, occupational skills training, vocational skills training, job seeker and employer services, welfare reform programming, economic and community development, employment, and extensive youth programming.

Empowering Women: On Sept. 24, Comerica and the Lions will support Women of Tomorrow, a mentoring and scholarship program that pairs professional and highly accomplished women who inspire, motivate, and teach critical life skills to at-risk students through mentoring sessions. Women of Tomorrow is connected to nearly 60 schools in Detroit and southeast Michigan communities.

Hatch Detroit Bolstered with $100,000 Donation

It was a celebration and recognition to thank the individuals and organizations who donate their time and efforts to continue moving the community forward, but the Detroit Sports+Entertainment Community Celebration turned out to be a much more impactful evening.

On Saturday, August 26, Hatch Detroit become one of three Detroit nonprofits to receive a $100,000 contribution from Ilitch Charities during an evening when guests mingled throughout the pedestrian-friendly Columbia Street and the historic Fox Theatre, sampled food from area restaurants, enjoyed live entertainment, and participated in a silent auction benefitting the organization that helps improve the communities it reaches around the world.

“We remain dedicated to giving back to the communities in which we serve,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies and Chairman, Ilitch Charities. “Through our charities, foundations, volunteerism and impactful programs, we are honored to support hundreds of organizations working to make our cities and towns stronger.”

Hatch Detroit by TechTown, one of the evening’s featured charities, has become among Detroit’s most successful business incubators over the past decade.

Now part of TechTown Detroit’s small business programming, Hatch Detroit provides funding, education, exposure and mentoring to up-and-coming entrepreneurs through its annual Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest.

Schools Foundation.

The Eastern Market Partnership, the non-profit that operates Eastern Market, which makes fresh food more accessible and creates opportunities for small business owners.

NFL Crucial Catch – Game On Cancer: During the NFL’s league-wide Crucial Catch campaign in October to raise awareness and fight cancer, Comerica and the Lions are teaming up to support Henry Ford Health’s Game On Cancer initiative on Oct. 8 when the Lions host the Carolina Panthers. Game On Cancer is a partnership between Henry Ford, Detroit Lions and Detroit Pistons that raises money to alleviate barriers that cancer patients face on their road to recovery and funds research to find a cure.

Game on Cancer is one of Comerica’s most notable employee fundraising campaigns in the Michigan market, and the bank’s colleagues have now raised more than $60,000 since 2018.

Additional 2023 Community Partners: For the remaining six regular season home games, the Comerica First Down Program will support: Oct. 30: Neway Works, Nov. 19: Dutton Farms, Inc., Nov. 23: Destined For Greatness, Week 15 (Date TBD): A Girl Like Me, and Week 17 (Date TBD): RTTM Community Center

The Comerica First Down Program kicked off its 2023 outreach during both Lions home preseason games in August. In total, both preseason games generated $2,800 that supported the Horatio Williams Foundation and My Sister’s Keeper.

First Down Program Impact: Since its inception in 2017, Comerica has contributed over $113,000 to approximately 35 local community organizations through the First Down program.

Previous recipients include: Abigayle Ministries, Alternatives

For Girls, Arab American and Chaldean Council, Beyond Basics, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Citadel Community Development Corporation, DEFY Program, Detroit Organizations of Black Organizations, Detroit Police Athletic League, Inc., Detroit Public Schools Foundation, Family Assistance for Renaissance Men (F.A.R.M.), Focus: HOPE, HAVEN, IMAGINE Mentoring, Judson Center, LASED, Lebanese American Heritage Club Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, Life After Care, Life Directions, Mostyn Community Development, Pure Heart Foundation, Ruth Ellis Center, The Children’s Center and Winning Futures.

In December 2022, Comerica and the Lions celebrated a significant milestone in the six-year history of the program. Last year, the 1,000th first down was garnered by the Lions since 2017 moving the overall contributions generated for local charities to $100,000.

“The $100,000 donation is incredibly meaningful to the organization and will allow them to continue their support of small businesses,” said Linda Nogesbe, National Community Impact Manager and Vice President at Comerica Bank. Comerica and the Comerica Charitable Foundation has invested approximately $1 million in prize money and organizational support into Hatch Detroit since 2012.

With support from Hatch Detroit, approximately 50 alumni have opened businesses. They employ over 500 people and have invested over $13 million in economic development.

Other recipients of $100,000 donations from Ilitch Charities included Eastern Market Partnership and Detroit Public

Cindy Pasky, chair of the Board of Directors of the Eastern Market Partnership, accepted the donation, noting, “This is one of the largest contributions Eastern Market has ever received.”

The Detroit Public Schools Foundation, which accepted a gift geared towards career and technical educational programs that train students to join the workforce, including Detroit Public Schools Community District’s Davis Aerospace Technical High School at Golightly, Philip Randolph Career and Technical Center, and Breithaupt Career and Technical Center.

Kerrie Mitchell, President & CEO of the Detroit Public Schools Foundation spoke on behalf of the foundation in accepting the gift. Mitchell said, “This $100,000 is life-changing to the students and families at DPSCD.”

The celebration was part of a weekend packed full of activities that wrapped

up on August 28, with the 15th Annual Ilitch Charities Celebrity Golf Classic, Ilitch Charities’ largest annual fundraiser at Oakland Hills Country Club – which, founded in 1916, has played a significant role in the history of golf in the United States. These annual events raise funds for vital community programs. This year’s charitable gift recipients were announced during a community celebration in the Grand Lobby of the Fox Theatre.

On August 24, the Detroit Tigers Foundation held its Keeping Kids in the Game fundraising event at Comerica Park. Focusing on youth health, sports and education, the event benefited Make-A-Wish, providing positive life-changing experiences to local critically ill youth, and the Miguel Cabrera Foundation, which, among other things, promotes recreational baseball and softball to children between 6 and 10 years of age.

Over the years, more than $250 million and thousands of volunteer hours have been donated to worthy causes by the Ilitch Companies, Ilitch Charites, and its affiliates and owners.

123rd National Black Business Conference Empowers Businesses

Comerica Bank named National Corporation of the Year

For the 123rd time, the National Black Business Conference, presented by Comerica Bank and organized by the National Alliance for Black Business, brought attendees from all over the country and globally to Atlanta, Ga., on Aug. 23 to deliver valuable insights into enterprise ownership, access to vital resources, and a focus on enduring principles such as self-reliance and economic empowerment.

National African America Business Development Manager and Southeast Michigan External Affairs Market Manager Kevin Watkins (center) accepts the National Alliance for Black Business National Corporation of the Year on behalf of Comerica Bank. Pictured (l-r): President and CEO Charles Debow III (National Black Chamber of Commerce), National External Affairs Manger Vanessa Reed (Comerica Bank), National Retail Bank Risk Manager Deborah Edwards (Comerica Bank), Watkins, Trust Wealth Advisor and African America BRG Chair LaShawn Jimenez (Comerica Bank), Mayor Alberta Cooley McCrory (Hobson City, Ala.), and President and CEO Dr. Ken L. Harris (National Business League).

The conference has a rich history dating back to its origins with the National Business League, formerly known as the National Negro Business League, founded by the legendary Booker T. Washington. Inaugurated in Boston, Massachusetts, on August 23, 1900, the annual conference is a historic and highly esteemed event for Black businesses.

Since then, the event has evolved into a collaborative effort with the newly formed National Alliance for Black Business (2022), partnering with institutions like the National Business League (1900),

National Black Chamber of Commerce (1993), and the World Conference of Mayors (1986). This year’s theme was “We Are Together” and underpins the beginning of a unified Black business agenda.

Attorney Benjamin L. Crump, widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to civil rights advocacy, served as keynote speaker.

Additionally, Comerica’s Southeast Michigan External Affairs Market Manager Kevin Watkins offered insights as subject matter expert on the Access to Capital panel session.

The National Business League honored Comerica Bank as the National Corporate of the Year.

Co-founded by the National Business League and National black Chamber of Commerce, The National Alliance for Black Business is a historic partnership of national, Black-led organizations, leveraging a collective voice around a unified Black business agenda to bring about accountability through capital market solutions and digital accountability tools in the global Black community.

Ilitch Holdings, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Ilitch (far left) and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan (far right) pictured with representatives from TechTown, Eastern Market Partnership, and Detroit Public Schools Foundation. All three nonprofit organizations were honored with a $100,000 contribution for their impact on the community.

Comerica Bank colleagues on Columbia Street at the 2023 Detroit Sports+ Entertainment Community Celebration.

Wayne State University Vice President for Economic Development and TechTown President and CEO Ned Staebler thanks Chris Ilitch and Ilitch Charities for $100,000 contribution to support the small business and entrepreneur incubator.

Lions Legend kicker Jason Janson (center) with Comerica Bank colleagues at the kickoff to the bank’s Game on Cancer fundraiser earlier this year. Game of Cancer will be the recipient of the First Down Program with the Detroit Lions on Oct. 8.

A5 | September 20-26, 2023

Money.

Property is Power!

Increasing Access to Affordable Homeownership: A Mortgage-Focused Racial Equity Plan

The dream of homeownership has long been a cornerstone of the American Dream, symbolizing stability, security, and wealth accumulation. However, for many, this dream remains elusive, especially for minority communities who face systemic barriers to entry into the housing market. To address these disparities and promote racial equity, a mortgage focused plan has been proposed, aimed at increasing access to homeownership that is both affordable and sustainable.

Anthony O. Kellum

Balancing Affordability and Sustainability

The primary goal of this mortgage focused racial equity plan is to strike a delicate balance between affordability and sustainability. While it is essential to expand access to homeownership, it must be done with careful consideration to prevent imprudent expansion that could lead to foreclosures, a loss of homeownership, and ultimately, a loss of wealth. One key challenge that the housing industry and policymakers face is the anticipation of a decrease in origination volume throughout 2023. However, it is counterproductive to respond to this decline by lowering credit standards or extending loans beyond a borrower’s capacity to repay. Such actions jeopardize sustainable homeownership by placing borrowers in situations where they may struggle to maintain their mortgage payments.

Avoiding Unsustainable Debt Burdens

Setting borrowers up with obligations that burden them with excessive debt loads is a recipe for disaster. It not only increases the likelihood of foreclosure but also limits the amount of equity a homeowner can accumulate from the outset of their mortgage. This, in turn, makes it even more challenging for borrowers to recover from unexpected life events, such as job loss or medical emergencies. Moreover, with interest rates on the rise, lenders must exercise caution when choosing mortgage products for borrowers, especially lowto moderate-income households. The wrong choice could lead to unmanageable mortgage payments down the road, putting homeownership at risk.

Prudent Product Solutions

In the quest to increase homeownership, it is imperative that product solutions are responsive to identified needs and are prudently and thoughtfully applied. One critical factor to consider is the debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of potential homebuyers. While a high DTI ratio alone does not necessarily signify an unsuccessful homeowner, it becomes a greater risk factor when combined with a low to no down payment or a history of derogatory credit events.

For instance, consider a scenario where a homebuyer has a high DTI ratio, no down payment, and a history of late payments on previous debts. This combination of risk factors significantly heightens the likelihood of default and foreclosure. Therefore, it is crucial to assess these factors holistically when evaluating a borrower’s creditworthiness.

Summary

Efforts to increase access to affordable homeownership should be pursued vigorously, especially in light of the racial disparities that persist within the housing market. However, it is equally important that these efforts are underpinned by prudence, thoughtful application, and a commitment to sustainable homeownership. By striking a balance between affordability and sustainability, avoiding excessive debt burdens, and carefully assessing borrower risk factors, we can work towards the goal of increasing access to affordable homeownership while ensuring that this newfound opportunity is not squandered by unforeseen financial challenges. In doing so, we can promote greater equity and opportunity in the realm of homeownership for all Americans.

Local Economy Will Continue to See Steady Growth in Detroit

By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

The latest Detroit Economic Outlook for 2022-2028, recently released by the University of Michigan, paints a promising picture for the city’s future. The forecast predicts sustained growth in Detroit’s economy, marked by job creation, rising wages, and a commitment to extending opportunities to its residents.

Gabriel Ehrlich, director of U-M’s Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics and lead author of the forecast, states, “On balance, we expect Detroit’s recovery to continue over the next several years. Our forecast takes Detroit’s unemployment rate below 6 percent on a sustained basis, while wages rise for city residents and those who work there. We believe that qualifies as an encouraging outlook for Detroit’s economy in the years to come.”

Continued Job Gains and Higher Wages

One of the highlights of the economic forecast is the city’s projected job growth. The report indicates that Detroit will see ongoing job gains over the next five years, both within the city boundaries and among its residents. In 2023, nearly 5,000 jobs are expected to be added in the city, with 4,300 more anticipated in 2024. This positive trend is expected to continue, with an average of 1,900 jobs per year through 2028.

For Detroit residents, this means more employment opportunities. Employment is expected to follow a similar pattern, growing by an average of 3,600 jobs in 2023 and 2024 before leveling to 1,700 jobs per year from 2025 through

2028. This indicates that there will be a gap that companies could fill by searching beyond the city’s residents, but this forecast promises a more stable and prosperous future for Detroiters.

Moreover, Detroit residents are witnessing substantial increases in their paychecks. The city’s improving labor market has led to a remarkable 47 percent rise in average annual wages for residents, from $26,600 in 2014 to nearly $39,200 in 2021. Looking ahead, the city’s average household income is projected to reach $50,300 by 2028, further improving the economic well-being of Detroit families.

Attracting Good-Paying Jobs and Extending Opportunities

Detroit’s economic success story is not just about numbers; it’s about a strategic approach that focuses on attracting high-paying jobs for its residents. Recent developments, such as Amazon’s new packaging facility and GM’s plan to convert the former AMC headquarters into a warehouse for electric vehicle parts, are prime examples of this strategy in action. These initiatives are not only creating jobs but also providing opportunities for Detroit residents, with a significant percentage of the workforce being local.

One notable program contributing to Detroit’s growth is “Jump Start,” a groundbreaking $100 million scholarship program aimed at assisting long-term unemployed residents in reengaging in the job market through paid education and career/job training programs. This innovative initiative is expected to reintegrate 1,200 Detroiters into the workforce, with plans for even broader outreach in the future.

As of August 31, 2023, there are 7,010 job openings available in Detroit, indicating a strong demand for skilled workers and a healthy job market.

Jay Rising, Chief Financial Officer of the City of Detroit, emphasizes, “The steady growth projected in Detroit’s economy is good news as the forecast expects to see more job gains and wage increases. While risks remain, we will continue employing the administration’s growth and opportunity strategies to further improve the quality of life for Detroiters.”

A Collaborative Effort for Economic Prosperity

The Detroit Economic Outlook is the result of a collaborative effort between the City of Detroit University Economic Analysis Partnership, comprising economic researchers from the City, Wayne State University, Michigan State University, and the Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics (RSQE) at the University of Michigan. This partnership underscores the commitment of various stakeholders to monitor, analyze, and nurture Detroit’s economic growth.

Detroit’s economic resurgence is not just a flash in the pan; it’s a sustained and well-orchestrated effort to rebuild and revitalize the city’s economy. The Detroit Economic Outlook for 20222028 provides a glimpse into a brighter future, where job growth, rising wages, and opportunities for Detroit residents take center stage. With innovative programs and a strategic focus on attracting good-paying jobs, the Motor City is on a path to enduring economic prosperity.

What Could a Federal Government Shutdown Mean for Detroiters?

By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR

Hollywood writers and actors have been on strike for months.

If Detroit union members and the Big 3 automakers don’t reach a contract agreement, automotive manufacturing could come to a halt.

Washington, D.C., is preparing for a looming federal government shutdown by the end of September if Congress doesn’t reach a budget deal. With that stated from the outset, it appears that many areas of the country have reached an economic breaking point defined by stress and desperation.

All of this means that if Congress doesn’t reach an agreement on the federal budget by the end of the fiscal year 2023 on Sept. 30, 2023, a shutdown could happen.

Right now, there are three scenarios in play. In one scenario, Congress does nothing and shuts down the government at midnight on Sept. 30 because the House and Senate don’t agree to the proposed budget. Another scenario is that Congress passes one or more continuing resolutions that extend

FY2023 funding at current levels until a certain date, which would move a potential shutdown date to sometime around the Christmas holiday. Finally, Congress could pass some or all of the 12 separate appropriations bills to fund the government through

Sept. 30, 2024, and completely avoid a federal shutdown. According to the federal Office of Management and Budget, “in a “shutdown, federal agencies must discontinue all non-essential discretionary functions until new

funding legislation is passed and signed into law. Essential services continue to function, as do mandatory spending programs.”

But there could very well be other implications with the potential shutting down of national parks at airports with federal TSA agents, the closure of the IRS, SNAP benefits, and even food inspectors being furloughed. This has the potential to interrupt everyday life for everyday Detroit residents.

Republicans who control the House by a slim majority are pushing for across-theboard cuts and have argued that the government is spending too much as Washington continues to rack up substantial debt. The Democratic minority argues that additional funding is needed to sustain and bolster programs, many of which benefit Black people across the country.

So, who gets hurt the most in a shutdown? Federal workers.

“Federal employees get put on a furlough,” said Danii Manaenkov, University of Michigan U.S. Forecasting Specialist. “There will be people not getting paid for

Detroit’s Need for More Black People in Skilled Labor

By Andre Ash DIGITAL ANCHOR

It’s a booming time for construction in Detroit. The Motor City, which became an automotive powerhouse and put the world on wheels, is now finding itself channeling one construction site to another as cranes and buildings begin to change the face and skyline of Michigan’s largest city.

In just the downtown landscape alone, an emerging entertainment district will take shape with projects led by the City of Detroit, Greektown Neighborhood Partnership, Paradise Valley Cultural and Entertainment District Conservancy, Bedrock, and other important entrepreneurs who are heading up construction on revitalization and new development sites.

There are more than 4,000 construction workers in the downtown core and over 14 ongoing construction projects, according to the Michigan Building Trades Council.

From residential to large commercial projects, both on the move within downtown and dotted neighborhoods, there hasn’t always been the locally skilled and talented labor force for some of the area’s biggest development projects, particularly for Black Detroiters.

An intentional focus is now being turned to this issue, which began to gain traction as talks were underway for the Illitch’s District Detroit project. The project encompassed the development of Little Ceasars Arena, with promises to bring an adjourning entertainment, commercial, and residential district to the Woodward Avenue and I-75 corridor.

The City of Detroit government would institute a provision that developers meet a 51% threshold to hire Detroiters on major projects that sought public subsidy, and if not, the developers were left to pay a fine. The problem, historically, is entities would voice their challenges in finding the skilled labor force to meet the 51% Detroit workforce requirement.

The fines developers pay go into a city government fund to train Detroiters on the pipeline of construction projects set for years to come.

“But we don’t have enough people coming into the pipeline to backfill these jobs,” says Dannis Mitchell, Director of Community Engagement for the Detroit-founded Barton Malow construction company. Mitchell says the workforce isn’t keeping up with the pace of construction demand and the pace at which some workers retire and age out of the system.

“We have put in a lot of work on the outreach side to raise awareness, but we also, as an industry, had to collectively step up. Whether you’re a construction manager, a

Shutdown

From page A-5 several weeks if we go to a severe shutdown scenario.”

“There may be a higher demand for some temporary loans to make sure people can maintain the basic things such as keeping your lights on and buying groceries. It’s a temporary disruption, which for most people will eventually work itself out, but will mean some temporary hardship.”

Manaenkov says federal workers who won’t get paid during this shutdown period will eventually be back-paid once the government resumes business. How severe a potential shutdown could become depends upon several factors.

For example, if a shutdown affects federal employees who oversee data collection – which the Federal Reserve relies on for making rate decisions – their inability to have a clear outlook on the economy based on unavailable data information could lead them to make decisions that result in another rate increase. Therefore, in a scenario like that, a trickle-down effect on higher rates to pay a mortgage or student loans would happen.

The 2013 federal government shutdown during Barack Obama’s presidency, which ran from September through October, was worse than the partial 2019 shutdown under President Donald Trump.

Helping Seniors and Their Families for Almost 50 Years

Dannis Mitchell Kimle Nailer

general contractor, a sub-contractor …we’ve had had to work in clear unison with our union partners.”

Mitchell knows something about the importance of having an inclusive representation in the construction workforce. She was tapped to lead Barton Malow’s business and workforce inclusion efforts as its Diversity Manager and is now an industry professional with more than 20 years in construction. Her prior expertise and role in marketing helped the company win a contract during the development of Little Ceasars Arena.

She was tasked to meet a benchmark goal for working with Detroit-based businesses while challenged to meet the required 51% Detroit workforce hires.

Mitchell says the entire process gave her “a lot of motivation to uncover what the true challenge is. And what I found at the outreach events is that folks who looked like me didn’t understand what careers in construction meant.”

As Detroiters would line up for career fair events, she was greeted by people who wanted jobs in construction, but most were unaware of the over 20 trades that make up the industry.

“I realized very quickly that we as an industry have not done a good job of explaining to people what the jobs and the trades mean.”

It’s part of the reason she launched the Barton Marlow Bootcamp – a workforce development program partnered with the union and MUST Construction to give exposure on job sites and, in particular, to youth. The program would eventually draw national attention as clients of the company from across the country would ask for similar programs to be implemented within their organizations, seeking to activate workforce and supplier diversity on their own projects.

“Internally I asked for more resources and needed to build a team to do so,”

So, what does this all mean for local and social organizations that depend on federal funding?

“Nonprofits that depend on federal funding, they may get a temporary disruption in disbursements …but it’s less disruptive a business or nonprofit entity level than at a personal level because people are a lot more credit restrained,” Manaenkov said.

He pointed out that contractual payments will continue and not so much a scenario “where we stop paying our bills or as if social security checks will stop rolling in. It’s typically just federal workers were not allowed to work because there’s no provision for their money.”

However, if a shutdown moves forward, it could create an uptick in the nation’s unemployment numbers for those workers.

The budget fight between Republicans and Democrats in Congress means certain federal programs could be on the chopping block, such as food stamps, WIC, EBT benefits, and rollback in spending for Medicaid, creating a lifeline deficit for many households who need these federal programs.

“What comes out of the budget negotiations, it could have a lasting implications, because if they cut a lot or slow down the future rate of growth, that’s going to lower the level of federal support provided to families and they typically go to people who are less well-off and unfortunately Detroit is pretty low on the average income distribution.”

Mitchell says. “I was allowed to hire several people and specifically hired young women of color to enter this space. I was very intentional about it because it allows us to go into various school districts across the country to talk about skilled trades and management jobs.”

It’s the type of early exposure to career opportunities Mitchell believes are needed, just as she received as a student at Renaissance High while also attending Randolph Vocational School. A construction internship in high school led to her career in construction, and a degree in marketing helped develop her expertise on the business side of construction.

“It all started through DPS (now, Detroit Public Schools Community District),” Mitchell says. “I think it’s important for young people to have exposure early to the various careers within construction. It’s not all just skilled trades. We need accountants, we need people in marketing, attorneys, engineers, and project managers.”

Getting into the construction industry can certainly take different routes, as did Kimle Nailer. The Detroit native got into the construction business as a result of real estate investing and figured if she had spent years fixing up houses for sale, she could certainly take on even bigger projects. Her brief period living in Chicago prepared her to do so.

“I worked at a law firm where the primary practice was for real estate investors,” Nailer said. “I was engaged in preparing the documentation as we would buy properties, fix them up, sell or rent them.”

But as Nailer aged close to 40, she says she needed an accelerator as “there was no way I could stop, and in 20 years and not have a nickel or dime saved.”

A city auction presented her the opportunity to bid and secure multiple residential properties, allowing her to collect rent while fixing up homes in her portfolio. Revitalizing came with a lot of hard work and learning.

She also saw firsthand how the development of the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago brought nearby development and spread economic opportunity.

“Because I lived in Chicago …McCormick Place was undergoing major renovations and immediately thereafter all of the communities surrounding at skyrocket in value. So, I said, this is a great time to build.”

This realization sparked excitement that one day, this renewed investment and yielding construction projects would happen to Detroit, and she wanted to be a part of the process.

“My family had the skill of drywall finishing and when I did my research, it was ranked fourth as far as the shortage of labor in the construction industry, so I said that’s the perfect niche to have.”

After receiving her construction license, her family business began to take shape in 2015, inspired by the massive development of the Little Ceasars Arena. Her experience as a business analyst and real estate investor prepared her to enter the commercial construction industry in Detroit.

“I said construction is the industry I should be in,” Nailer explains. “This is an industry that can be reparations for the black community. The wages are higher, the projects can redevelop communities. If you stabilize the income, you more homeowners, more solid tenants, and the neighborhood stabilizes.”

Nailer started to receive the calls. From drywall work at one of the major downtown corporate companies to construction finishing work for the new Forman Mills site at Grand River and Greenfield, it was only a matter of time before her business began to take off from the shortage that existed in the market.

Nailer sees the same issues as Mitchell with not enough people of color in the construction industry. Through her efforts, she’s working to change this outcome.

“The industry being exposed to the Black community and culture is my goal,” she says. “I believe our churches should be the builders of our housing. In a one-mile radius if churches teamed up with the City of Detroit, then they should be the community partners with the Land Bank. We can then teach the skill of construction from start to finish.”

She, too, believes exposure to this opportunity must be available to students in every Detroit school again so that the “minds come early from our creative build because those may be the designing minds of the next high rise that we look to Dan Gilbert to build.”

Both Nailer and Mitchell believe that construction is critical to the transformation of elevating Black wealth and that Detroit can be a beacon of what’s possible.

Connecting older adults and their families to the support they need: government-funded in-home care programs, Meals on Wheels, transportation and more.

800-852-7795

• aaa1b.org

America’s Opioid Crisis Exposes Deep-Rooted Inequities Within the Black Community

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

In 2020, the rate of drug overdose deaths among Black Americans skyrocketed, increasing faster than that of any other racial or ethnic group in the country. Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, played a central role in driving this rising toll. The devastating impact of this crisis is underscored by a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), revealing that more Black Americans died from fentanyl overdoses than from any other drug in 2021, and at disproportionately higher rates than whites or Hispanics. The opioid crisis had already cast a long shadow of suffering over marginalized communities, but the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown gasoline onto this raging fire.

Between 2016 and 2021, the rate of fentanyl overdose deaths increased by a staggering 279 percent for all Americans, as per the new CDC data. While the total number of overdose deaths in the U.S. held relatively steady last year, the growing fentanyl threat coupled with stark racial disparities present a daunting challenge for the Biden administration, which has placed health equity at the forefront of its agenda.

To fully comprehend the anguish that Black communities face in the opioid crisis today, it is essential to recognize the deep-rooted connection between their struggle and the historical injustices stemming from the War on Drugs. The policies implemented during the war, such as setting up treatment centers primarily in Black neighborhoods, created a stigmatization of medication for opioid use disorder. Patients were required to visit these centers daily to receive methadone, making access to life-saving treatment all the more difficult.

As the opioid crisis evolved, the national narrative shifted, wrongly portraying it as primarily affecting white communities driven by prescription pills. This misguided perception, fueled by media, practitioners, and patients alike, has significantly contributed to the neglect of the Black community’s dire circumstances. Dr. Mark Greenwald, Wayne State Director of the Substance Abuse Research Division notes that, “The situation here in Detroit is representative of other primarily urban communities across the U.S., in terms of opioid overdose rates we see an unfortunate recent rise among Blacks. It used to be different, whites used to be skyrocketing in that area whereas Black were playing catch up.”

Furthermore, Black Americans have faced systemic barriers in accessing medication-assisted treatment. Research indicates that Black patients are significantly less likely to receive a buprenorphine prescription compared to their white counterparts, due to factors such as inadequate doctor training, medical discrimination, the uneven distribution of practitioners, and economic disparities in insurance coverage.

While the Biden administration and lawmakers have taken some steps to loosen restrictions and expand access to treatment, these measures fall short of what is urgently needed. For example, methadone, a vital medication for opioid use disorder treatment, should be made more widely available. Additionally, proposals to restrict access to buprenorphine via telehealth should be reevaluated in light of their potential negative consequences.

“Treatment access is a big problem where there are disparities. One of the mainstays historically of treatment for opioid use disorder, methadone, Blacks and whites actually have comparable access to methadone treatment facilities -- if they want to,” Greenwald expressed. “But methadone is much more stigmatized, it’s burdensome, you have to go to the clinic every day, it’s usually more geographically urban, and as a result it becomes the predominantly treatment that Blacks receive and that’s unfortunate because of the stigmatism and the burdens associated with it which in turn is a disservice to Black individuals.” In contrast, buprenorphine is a comparatively newer treatment that is less stigmatized because it’s often prescribed from private practice addiction medicine physicians, “so, buprenorphine has been much more accessible for whites and that’s because there’s

a shortage of addiction treatment providers and it is these structural barriers that are huge disadvantages for Blacks.”

The legacy of the U.S. War on Drugs is widely recognized for its role in mass incarceration, predominantly affecting communities of color. However, it also has far-reaching implications for how Black and brown communities are currently experiencing the opioid crisis. It has not only criminalized substance use disorder but also created significant barriers for those seeking treatment. Greenwald echoed this sentiment, “Another overarching problem that Blacks and other people of color encounter is that they’re more likely to be prosecuted for drug related offenses. So, they see that as a deterrent and that don’t want to seek care because they’re thinking that they’d rather stay under the radar.”

The origin of the opioid crisis is well-documented, with pharmaceutical companies flooding predominantly white communities with opioids in the 1990s. However, when white opioid users began to switch to unregulated heroin markets, it disrupted the established patterns in these markets and intensified competition, leading to the emergence of more potent and lethal substances like fentanyl. For Black and brown communities that had, for some time, maintained relatively stable heroin consumption patterns, the entry of fentanyl posed new and risky challenges.

help. Furthermore, the concentration of methadone clinics in Black neighborhoods reinforces the longstanding structural inequalities that have plagued these communities for generations.

To address these issues, it is imperative to expand the availability of methadone treatment beyond the confines of these clinics. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has taken steps to allow opioid treatment programs to provide patients with takehome methadone doses, reducing the burden of daily clinic visits. However, these measures need to be further extended and promoted.

The Biden administration and lawmakers have recently taken steps to ease some of these restrictions and make buprenorphine more accessible. However, these efforts need to be comprehensive, ongoing, and closely monitored to ensure equitable access for all communities, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic background.

“There’s a recent Harvard study where they looked at the sample of Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities and they found that whites received medications for the treatment of opioid abuse disorder, most likely buprenorphine, up to 80 percent more frequently than Blacks,” Greenwald stated, “And yet, they found that patients across racial ethnic groups had similar numbers of treatment visits so everyone was equally engaged, it’s just that Blacks were disadvantaged by getting the treatment in the first place. Another unfortunate truth is that treatment facilities that have a high portion of people of color are less likely to offer medications for treating opioid abuse disorder than those with mostly white patients.”

Moreover, addressing the opioid crisis should not stop at expanding access to MAT. It must encompass a holistic approach that considers the broader social determinants of health, such as housing, food security, and social support. Black and brown communities, which have historically been marginalized and disproportionately affected by systemic inequalities, require targeted investments in these areas to address the root causes of addiction and overdose.

The shift from a corrective approach to a health carebased approach in addressing opioid addiction has been uneven in its impact. Black and brown communities have largely been excluded from the benefits of this transformation. Public investments in these communities have been reallocated from health care to punitive policing, leaving them with underfunded health care and harm reduction services.

To effectively address this crisis, policies must be explicitly anti-racist. On the supply side, authorities should prioritize establishing robust consumer protections and ensuring a safe drug supply. On the demand side, it is imperative to desegregate health care, invest in resources for Black and brown communities, and scrutinize policies to assess their predicted effects by race.

The opioid crisis is not solely a matter of drugs; it is inherently tied to issues of race and systemic injustice. It is time to acknowledge this stark reality and take decisive action to rectify decades of inequity. Failure to do so perpetuates a cycle of harm that disproportionately affects Black and brown communities. The time for change is now, and the pursuit of justice demands our unwavering commitment.

As we reflect on the deeply entrenched racial disparities within the opioid crisis, it is essential to explore potential solutions and policy shifts that can help mitigate this ongoing tragedy. One crucial avenue for intervention lies in expanding access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

MAT encompasses medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, which are used in conjunction with counseling and therapy to treat opioid addiction effectively. However, Black individuals have historically faced significant barriers in accessing these life-saving treatments.

The stigmatization of methadone treatment, perpetuated by the daily clinic visits, can deter individuals from seeking

Recycling: A Pathway to Equitable Sustainability

By Lynzee Mychael MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

As the Resilience & Equity in the Clean Energy Sector Summit (RECESS23) Conference emerges in Detroit this Oct. 30-Nov. 1, Michigan is making headlines for all the right reasons, and recycling rates in the Great Lakes Region are soaring to unprecedented heights.

The global RECESS Summit – presented by Walker-Miller Energy Services – brings together BIPOC champions, allies, sponsors, and collaborators who are shaping the future of the clean energy sector. It also serves to highlight the fact that Black people and people of color often face lesser-talked-about environmental disparities in addition to the more frequently discussed issues of economic, health, and safety inequality.

According to numbers released by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for fiscal year 2022, the state achieved a remarkable milestone in recycling, with a record-breaking 620,494 tons of residential recycled materials. This achievement signifies a significant step towards environmental sustainability and a cleaner future for Michigan. Recycling is not just about reducing waste; it is also a critical component of sustainable living. When communities embrace recycling, they actively contribute to reducing the environmental impact of landfills and conserving valuable resources. But the impact of recycling goes beyond environmental benefits; it also plays a crucial role in promoting social equity and economic growth. Michigan’s recycling renaissance

The opioid crisis is not solely a public health issue; it is a social justice issue. It is a matter that resonates deeply with many, such as Dr. Greenwald who also conveyed this sentiment, “What really irks me is that Blacks are more likely to receive lower, which in turn is less effective, methadone doses than whites. We have so much data that suggests that you need to treat people with adequate doses, and they can do very well, they can start to rebuild their lives. So, it’s tragic and disturbing that Blacks are receiving less effective doses. It’s an underlying tragedy I’ve worked my entire career to improve the quality of care for Black people. That one bothers me a lot.” To achieve meaningful change, we must actively work to dismantle the deeply entrenched structures of racism that perpetuate disparities in access to treatment and contribute to the opioid epidemic’s disproportionate impact on Black and brown communities.

As we contemplate the path forward, it is crucial to acknowledge that the opioid crisis is not an isolated phenomenon. It is part of a broader pattern in which crises that initially impact white communities are met with empathy and health-focused responses, while those affecting Black and brown communities are met with penalizing measures and neglect.

This discrepancy is a stark reminder of the systemic racism embedded in our society. It raises the troubling question: Will the opioid crisis, once seen primarily as a white problem, ultimately deliver its most devastating consequences to Black and brown people?

History provides a troubling precedent for this scenario. Authorities tend to respond more urgently when white communities are affected, implementing policies and interventions aimed at reducing harm. However, when Black and brown communities bear the brunt of a crisis, the response is often characterized by punitive measures and a renewed “War on Drugs” mentality.

Addressing this imbalance requires targeted investments in these communities to repair decades of disinvestment. We must recognize that color-blind policies are insufficient.

How Does Recycling Affect the Black Community?

Recycling’s impact on the Black community in Michigan is multi-faceted and far-reaching:

1. Economic Empowerment: Recycling programs create jobs, from collecting and sorting recyclables to processing and selling them as raw materials. By actively participating in recycling initiatives, members of the Black community in Michigan are not only contributing to a sustainable future but also accessing economic opportunities that support livelihoods.

2. Environmental Justice: Generally, marginalized communities, including Black communities, have often borne the brunt of environmental pollution and degradation. By embracing recycling, these communities can be at the forefront of environmental justice movements, actively engaging in activities that mitigate environmental harm and improve overall community well-being.

3. Education and Awareness: Participation in recycling programs fosters awareness and environmental consciousness within the Black community. This, in turn, leads to informed choices that can positively impact health and quality of life. Furthermore, recycling initiatives often provide educational resources, teaching individuals about waste reduction, resource conservation, and the broader implications of their actions.

How Can the Black Community Continue to Be Engaged in Recycling?

While Michigan’s record-breaking recycling success is an inspiring example, sustaining and expanding this momentum within the Black community requires strategic efforts:

1. Education and Outreach: Implement targeted education and outreach programs that highlight the tangible benefits of recycling for the Black community. This includes economic opportunities, cleaner neighborhoods, and the reduction of environmental hazards.

2. Community Engagement: Actively involve community leaders, organizations, and influencers in recycling initiatives. Their endorsement and involvement can inspire others and create a sense of collective responsibility.

3. Accessible Infrastructure: Ensure that recycling infrastructure, such as collection centers and bins, is easily accessible in predominantly Black neighborhoods. This promotes convenience and encourages participation.

4. Collaboration: Foster partnerships between government agencies, local businesses, and community organizations to develop recycling programs that are tailored to the specific needs and interests of the Black community.

5. Celebrate Success: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations within the Black community that excel in recycling. This recognition can serve as motivation for others to follow suit.

demonstrates how recycling can be a vehicle for positive change, particularly for the Black community.

Michigan’s recycling renaissance showcases the power of collective action in achieving sustainability goals, which is the backbone of the RECESS23 mission. The enthusiastic participation of Detroit’s Black

community exemplifies how recycling can be a catalyst for economic empowerment, environmental justice, and community development. By continuing to educate, engage, and support these efforts, Michigan can ensure that its record-breaking success in recycling becomes a legacy of positive change and equitable sustainability for all.

Don’t ignore mental wellbeing in fall.

Here are 5 tips that can help.

By Dr. Nazlim Hagmann, Psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer, CCA Health Michigan

As we prepare for fall and spend more time indoors as the days get colder, it’s important to consider all the ways to support or improve our health — including our mental health.

In my experience as a practicing psychiatrist and CCA Health Michigan’s chief medical officer, maintaining good mental health year-round is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Mental health is crucial to our overall well-being, and it can be challenging to maintain as the days grow shorter.

For older adults, the need for comprehensive mental health services is greater now than ever. Individuals aged 50 to 80 are more likely to experience worse mental health today than since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Significant life changes also can play a critical role in our mental health: a job loss, housing transition or the loss of family or friends.

Here are some ways to support good mental health:

1. Build strong social connections: Isolation is one of the most significant risk factors for mental health problems, especially as we age. It’s essential to build a strong support network of friends, family and peers. Join clubs or hobby groups, volunteer or attend community events to build and keep social connections. For older adults, senior centers in your area will also offer activities and events to help you socialize.

2. Recognizing the physical signs of mental health conditions: Many physical signs, such as irritability, sleep disturbances and lack of appetite, can indicate a mental health condition, such as depression and anxiety. Other symptoms include the inability to focus or work toward goals, a weakened immune system and chronic pain.

3. Understanding the impact of chronic conditions on mental health: Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can negatively affect mental health. When you have depression and anxiety on top of these other conditions, it can lead to poor self-care and worse outcomes.

4. Talk to someone: If you need help working through mental health concerns, but you don’t feel comfortable sharing with people in your life, talking to a therapist may help. Ask your friends, family, doctor or health care plan for recommendations and try out at least three therapists before settling on one. Look for therapists who specialize in your specific issues and check their reviews online. If you’re not happy with your therapist, talk to them about it and, if necessary, find someone else who is a better fit. You can also consult directories for Black therapists in Michigan.

5. Take advantage of community and online resources: There are many community and online resources available for mental health support. For mild anxiety and depression, lifestyle adjustments such as exercise, mindfulness and healthy eating habits can make a significant difference. There are many apps and books available to help with mindfulness and meditation. Support groups can also be helpful, especially for those facing similar challenges. You may be able to find support groups that align with your specific interests, such as book clubs, faith groups or other activities you enjoy.

Maintaining good mental health is a vital component of our overall well-being and can have a tremendous impact on our daily lives. This fall, remember you’re not alone, and there is always help available — it’s just a matter of reaching out and taking small, but important, steps.

To learn more about CCA Health Michigan, visit ccahealthmi.org.

COLLEAGUE SPOTLIGHT Douglas Nolan Mersier Bey II

As a Home Equity Line of Credit expert focusing on personal and business development through lending, Douglas Nolan Mersier Bey II has been a Comerican for nearly 25 years. He notes that the culture of Comerica is what has kept him at the bank.

“Obviously, our client base is amazing,” said Mersier Bey. “The management at the bank, and our leadership is really, really great. I’ve had some terrific leaders and mentors along the way. And they have helped me to be able to really build out a pretty successful career. But, I always go back to the Comerica culture that keeps me here.”

Comerica Cares volunteers help distribute personal items to families and children during the Islamic Center of Detroit Day of Dignity.

Islamic Center of Detroit partners with Islamic Relief USA to support the community at the organization’s center in Detroit located at 14350 Tireman Avenue.

Comerica Cares Volunteers Serve at Day of Dignity Community Outreach

Comerica Cares volunteers spent Sat., Sept. 9 at the Islamic Center of Detroit (14350 Tireman Avenue) distributing backpacks, personal hygiene kits, and school kits to families and children in the community during the Islamic Center of Detroit Day of Dignity.

The Islamic Center of Detroit partnered with Islamic Relief USA to impact the community through one of the organization’s

approximate 20 Day of Dignity community events held throughout the country.

Day of Dignity, a day of service, provides essential such as hot nutritious meals, essential items, and haircuts to those unable to afford them.

In Detroit, Comerica volunteers helped distribute free meals, hygiene kits, school kits, backpacks, winter clothes, winter coats and winter gloves.

The Islamic Center of Detroit (ICD) serves the most vulnerable people within Metropolitan Detroit through the Muslim faith, Islamic principles, and a fundamental belief in assisting others. Officially opened to the public in January 2000, the ICD offers programming not only to its Muslim constituency, but also the underserved surrounding the Brooks, Fiskhorn, Warrendale, and Cody Rouge neighborhoods, and surrounding communities.

Total Life Prosperity Community Development Corporation Honors Comerica with Financial Wellness Award

In recognition of a commitment to educating the community and offering pathways to financial freedom, Total Life Prosperity Community Development Corporation honored Comerica Bank with its Financial Empowerment Award during the nonprofit’s Community Empowerment Awards Night.

Comerica has supported Total Life Prosperity with both financial contributions and financial education resources. Comerica External Affairs managers and Comerica Cares volunteers have assisted the Flint-based organization in various financial empowerment workshops over the past several years.

Led by Dwayne and Sonyita Clemons, Total Life Prosperity is a non-profit focused on a mission to change lives, empower people, and transform communities. The organization utilized personal success planning to engage families and begin the transformation process, while striving to see low-to-moderate income level communities become safe and nurturing places to raise families.

Total Life Prosperity envisions healthier, wealthier, synergetic communities where success is the norm and is expected.

UNCF Walk

From page A-3

“One of the beauties of UNCF is that the majority of the kids that benefit from these scholarships are typically the first people in their family to go to college. And they generally come from household incomes of less than $25,000. The UNCF does a fantastic job of bridging the gap to be sure they can pay for higher education.”

Rushing adds an important point, “UNCF is the second largest provider of financial assistance or support to college students in the country behind the US government. So that underscores the kind of impact the UNCF has.”

The UNCF assists many deserving young men and women with the opportunity to pursue higher education at a UNCF college or university — increasing their likelihood of being successfully employed and engaged in self-sustaining life choices.

Rushing has been a long-time supporter of the walk and explains that his motivation is personal.

“I was the first person in my family to go to college, and that’s been transformational for my family. I grew up for a portion of my youth on welfare, food stamps, and in a housing project in Detroit. I was fortunate

Comerica Bank District Retail Manager Marvin Rushing, who also serves as a chairperson for the UNC Detroit Walk for Education, speaks during the introduction at this year event.

to have an athletic scholarship, which really made a difference in my life and my way of thinking and changing the trajectory of my family. So I understand the importance of education and giving people an opportunity.”

Rushing adds, “Comerica Bank recognizes that we’re investing with time, money and other support systems into enhancing the lives of members of our community. It

Vice President and National Community Development Program Manager Lykesha Shelton walks in front of the James Scott Memorial Fountain.

behooves us for our ecosystem, our communities, our customers, and the people we are around, to make sure they are physically, mentally, and financially healthy. That allows us to further succeed.”

He adds, “It’s like living in the ocean having a great ecosystem. We’re part of that ecosystem. We need to make sure we give back and allow other people the opportunity to grow.”

Honey Bee Market

From page A-3

Storey adds, “They obviously provide amazing produce, and meats and household goods, but I really think it’s just the personal level of service that they do, that really sets them apart from the competition, they listen to what their client’s needs, they bring in those services, they bring in those materials, and so they can give back to those that give them.”

“My husband and I had a vision when we first took over the store from my mom,” said Alfaro-Koehler.

“It was that we were going to grow something here. Now the new goal is to encourage people to be a part of the food industry. And it is hard work. So my vision is how to talk about changes coming to this area and how my husband and I work together with the community, to bring us all together and unite. To see more than our differences but unite and as a team help the city progress.”

Comerica Small Business programs support entrepreneurs in our community through a number of programs and support initiatives. Meghan Storey explains, “We host financial literacy workshops for small businesses that could be vital for the budding entrepreneur that is may be in the incubator phase.

Q: Being at the bank so long, what are the core values that most resonate with you?

A: I think that’s what’s so amazing about our core values, any of them could resonate with me most depending on the day. If I had to choose one today, it would be “One Comerica,” Being here for more than 20 years, I’ve seen a lot of evolution in the company. I’ve seen a lot of transition. I’ve seen a lot of changes in leadership. But, honestly, it’s all just been a continuous improvement on something that was already really fantastic.

Q: What are some of your community service passions?

A: I’ve done some volunteering in the Hispanic community and initiatives that are specific to the African American community. I have also been a part of Friends of Rouge Park for almost my entire tenure with the bank. I also participate in the Heart Walk every year and I, like many of my colleagues, like going in to schools and talking to kids about financial literacy.

Q: So many Comericans mention how important financial literacy is, how vital is it to you to be involved?

A: For many Detroiters, we may not have had access to a lot of the information that is now readily available on the internet, etc. But, also that information needs to be explained and understood. So I appreciate the opportunity to reinvest back into the community, go to the schools and talk to people about understand the power of money.

Q: What are some of your favorite things about your job?

A: Just being able to accomplish a goal. We have financial wellness as a part of our due diligence with our client base, and it’s really something to be able to uncover and identify needs and to be able to help the clients meet a goal. I recently had a client with a daycare, and she had been looking for access to funding, to be able to support her business, and it took a couple years for us to work through a plan and a process through financial literacy and awareness, but she was able to acquire the lending that she needs to be able to help support her business in expanding. So, it’s those type of experiences for me.

Q: On a personal note, you’ve also had a rich career as a musician. How do you balance both of your careers?

A: I have lived a very balanced life with my career with Comerica. Not only have I had 25 years with the company, but also 25 years in the music industry. I’m an Emmy Award winner. I think I’m able to balance that because the company fully supports having a life outside of work and I having something to pour myself into outside of my 9-to-5 makes me a better colleague. Plus, when I have events, my colleagues are often right there supporting me and enjoying the show.

D. Nolan Mersier Bey is scheduled to perform live at a the special musical event “Love Unplugged” on Friday, Oct. 13 at Aretha’s Jazz Cafe located inside The Music Hall.

For more information on how Comerica colleagues are giving back to our community, visit www.facebook.com/Comerica.

services to educate business owners and their employees about how to build up their credit score or seek their first auto or home loan. I think our educational impact is a big part of what we do.”

Alfaro-Koehler explains what keeps her and Honey Bee Market banking with Comerica. “First, it is the staff at the location, but we often connect with other departments and everyone is always so patient with us--because as a small business, sometimes we have crisis moments, sometimes information that they need is hard for us to gather, but they have very good customer service and they’re very understanding.”

She adds, “Comerica has always been a major supporter of the market--right now we are dealing with new ventures like investments. And that has also been really good.”

The Southwest Detroit grocery store is a unique full-service market that specializes in Mexican products and serves the multicultural neighborhood.

Storey adds that the success of small businesses in the city is personal. “We ask ourselves, how do we help this business grow, how do we make this sustainable? How can we empower them to get to the next level? You know, when you can take a small business that has just a concept and idea, and then in a very short time you see them at three, four or $5 million in annual sales and they are employing, you know, 20, 30, 40 or 100 people?

Vice President-Senior Bank Manager and African America BRG cochair Mike Cheatham and Rushing cheer

“We are also very involved with the Hatch Detroit Initiative, where we give over $100,000 away to one lucky small business owner based on pitch competitions. We are actively involved in the community with educational

“I mean, you’re making a direct financial impact in this particular area, and I think Detroit works harder. We hustle, we have initiative, we have things that that we do that’s unlike any other market I’ve ever seen.”

Douglas Nolan Mersier Bey II Vice President, Sr. Banking Center Manager at Comerica Bank

Comerica Bank Senior Banking Center Manager Douglas Nolan Mersier Bey II with students at Cornerstone Lincoln-King High School during Comerica Money $ense Financial Education session on Budgeting and Financial Wellness.

the start of the UNCF Walk for Education.

Comerica Bank Southeast Michigan External Affairs Market Manager Kevin Watkins (center) accepts the Financial Empowerment Award from Dwayne (left) and Sonyita (right) Clemons of Total Life Prosperity Community Development Corporation.

C ity . L ife . Style .

Remembering Ed Davis: A Trailblazer for

Black Automobile Dealership Owners

By Donald James

SENIOR WRITER, REAL TIMES MEDIA

While one’s ethnicity should never be a determining factor related to selling or buying new automobiles (or anything else), this year’s North American International Detroit Auto Show is the perfect time to remember the late Ed Davis. Davis is the bold African American man who blazed segregated and racist trails in the Jim Crow Era to become a history-making automobile dealer in Detroit.

The Ed Davis story, as a pioneering figure in automobile sales, began in the mid-1930s and is interlaced with ups and downs in an era when Black people were finding footing in the booming manufacturing and assembly segments of the automobile industry, but not on the sales end of the spectrum. Yet, Davis found a way – his way – to persevere in search of his automotive dreams as a dealership owner – first in 1939 and again in 1963.

“I was the first Black dealer among the 25,000 dealerships of the Big Three,” Davis wrote in his riveting autobiography, One Man’s Way, published in 1979. “When I decided to get out of the business in 1971, I was among Chrysler Corporation’s most aggressive dealers, selling about 1,000 new cars and twice that figure in used cars a year at my Chrysler-Plymouth Dealership.”

From Chip Bags to Sleeping Bags: A Detroit Woman’s Mission to Aid Displaced Communities

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

In a world where over 82 million people are forcibly displaced due to conflicts, persecution, and natural disasters, the global crisis of displacement is more critical than ever before. This staggering number, reported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in 2020, underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions and compassionate leadership.

In the heart of Detroit, a city known for its resilience and innovation, Eradajere Oleita’s Chip Bag Project is making waves, one chip bag at a time. This nonprofit initiative, founded with a love for the city, has transformed the way we view those empty chip bags, proving that they can be a beacon of hope for those experiencing homelessness or displacement.

Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1911, Davis moved to Detroit in his early teens to live with relatives and pursue a quality education. In Detroit, young Davis shined shoes and washed cars. He became enamored with the big, flashy vehicles coming in for exterior and interior cleanings. The fancy cars caused Davis to dream of not only owning new vehicles but also one day selling them to Black and White people. He was often laughed at for daring to dream of selling to White people when no other Black person in Detroit – or perhaps the country – was selling new vehicles across racial lines in the mid-1920s. Davis graduated from Cass Technical High School, which he described as an excellent vocational institution that taught him plenty about business. Undaunted about his post-graduate ambitions, the teen’s dream began to unfold slowly. Davis wrote in his autobiography about a White man, Merton L. Lampkins, who was Davis’ constant car wash customer. Lampkins, a supervisor at Dodge Main Plant in Hamtramck, liked Davis’ work ethic and offered him a job at the auto assembly factory. Davis, in his late teens, was hired at 27 cents an hour – big money in the late 1920s.

In 1936, Lampkins opened Merton L.

See ED DAVIS Page B-2

A young Wendy Hilliard shows off her amazing flexibility.

Oleita’s journey began as a personal mission to give back to her beloved Detroit on her birthday each year. In 2020, amid the tumultuous backdrop of a global pandemic and social unrest, her vision crystallized into what we now know as the Chip Bag Project. Inspired by a chance encounter with a woman using chip packets to craft blankets, Oleita saw potential beyond the discarded wrappers and embarked on a mission to turn them into lifesaving sleeping bags.

“We really wanted to bridge the intersection between social justice and environmental justice by doing a project-based demonstration of sorts and it started off as a birthday present to the city from me because every year for my birthday I do some kind of community project,” Oleita said.

In 2020, the year of chaos and tragedy also amplified the true meaning of clarity and vision for Oleita. “This was my birthday present, and it was supposed to last three to four months.” Little to her surprise, this was a gift that kept on giving, even three years later.

The brilliance behind this project lies in the very material of those chip bags. Their mylar reflective surface, akin to emergency blankets, can efficiently mimic and retain body heat. When you slip into one of these repurposed chip bag sleeping bags, it becomes an instant incubator of warmth, offering comfort to those in dire need.

In Detroit alone, a city with its own share of economic challenges and a history of racial disparities, there are over 7,000 individuals experiencing homelessness on

By Aziah Siid

(This story first appeared in Word In Black.)

For Black Kids, Sports Set the Stage for Achievement and Joy

any given night, as reported by the Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND). In this context, Oleita’s project serves as a lifeline, addressing a critical issue that disproportionately affects the Black community. It is a powerful testament to the impact that a young Black woman can have when she takes the lead in addressing the needs of her community.

The Chip Bag Project is more than just a mission to repurpose snack bags into sleeping bags for the homeless. It’s a movement reflecting the spirit of innovation, ingenuity, and community that has always been the foundation of this great city. In each stitch, in each transformation from waste to warmth, lies a testament to the community’s capacity to rise, adapt, and uplift one another.

The landscape of Detroit has seen drastic changes—old buildings coming down,

With back-to-school season in full swing, teachers are getting their classrooms ready, students are buying academic supplies, and student-athletes are already practicing for upcoming games.

Indeed, whether it’s football, volleyball, cheerleading, cross country, or gymnastics, fall is jam-packed with middle and high school students who are out to win.

But, according to the NCAA, “Of the nearly 8 million students currently participating in high school athletics in the United States, only 495,000 of them will compete at NCAA schools. And of that group, only a fraction will realize their goal of becoming a professional or Olympic athlete.

So, if they’re not statistically likely to earn a college scholarship or go pro, why encourage Black youth to participate in sports?

“I’m a huge believer in what they call Olympism, which means you should be very good in sport, you should under-

stand art, and you should understand education, and you should work the three of them together,” says Wendy Hilliard, founder and CEO of Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation.

In 1979, Hilliard was the first Black person to compete internationally for the United States in rhythmic gymnastics. She was on the national team for 10 years, moving up to become the national team coach, and then an Olympic athlete.

Once her competitive and perform-

new structures going up, all in the name of a so-called “revitalization” that has unfortunately pushed out families who’ve been here for generations. Oleita feels the weight of this displacement, this economic eviction disguised as progress. What often goes unacknowledged is that Detroit is incomplete without its people—the makers, the doers, the shapers of legacies. They carry the soul of Motown in their steps and the fire of the furnaces in their eyes. Though displaced, they are not forgotten; though without a home, they are not without a community.

In these challenging times, when the winds are cold and the nights colder, initiatives like the Chip Bag Project offer more than physical warmth. Oleita’s nonprofit, Chippin In, forged partnerships

See CHIP BAG PROJECT Page B-2

ing days came to a close, Hilliard seized the opportunity to bring the sport back to Detroit, a decision that wasn’t easy but seemed so right.

Founded in 1996, the Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation provides free and low-cost gymnastics to youths from all backgrounds. With a gym located in her hometown of Detroit, Michigan, and another in Harlem, New

Photo: Kenn Duncan

Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation students stretch before a performance.

Photo: Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation

Ed Davis

From page B-1

Lampkins Chrysler-Plymouth, a new car dealership in Highland Park, and Davis, 25, was hired as a part-time salesman with two conditions: sell cars only to Black people and refrain from working on the main sales floor.

“I could not work on the showroom floor with White salesmen,” Davis wrote. “I was told that if I worked on the floor, I would be seen by prospective White buyers, and that would be bad for business…I was given working space in the stockroom upstairs to work with only Black customers.”

After far outselling the White salespeople, Davis was permitted to work on the showroom floor, which didn’t sit well with the White sales crew or White customers. Nevertheless, Davis’ selling acumen was undeniable to management, perhaps realizing that Black didn’t matter - only green!

In 1938, Davis made plans to start his own car dealership in Detroit despite the odds. Yet, amid segregation and intimidation, Davis, according to his autobiography, opened Davis Motors Sales on December 4, 1939, a used-car lot located at 421 East Vernor Highway near downtown Detroit. He was later awarded a new Studebaker car dealership, making him the nation’s first African American to own a Studebaker franchise. At the time, Studebaker was a top automotive brand.

“Although business had been exceptionally good at the start of the 1950s, by mid1953, I began losing money at my Studebaker dealership,” Davis wrote. “Our sales had been running at about 500 units a year, but they dropped by 30 percent. Studebaker was having serious financial problems. I decided to give up my Studebaker franchise and wrote the corporation terminating our agreement in April 1956.”

Davis subsequently brokered a deal that made him a sub-dealer and vice president at Floyd Rice Ford, one of Detroit’s largest Ford dealerships.

“I started selling Fords and did exceptionally well,” Davis wrote.

However, Davis wanted another shot at owning a new car dealership. On November 11, 1963, Davis got his shot when he was awarded a Chrysler-Plymouth dealership, making him the first Black person in the world to own one. Davis opened the dealership on Dexter Avenue and Elmhurst Street on Detroit’s west side, near where he and his wife, Mary Agnes Davis, lived on Chicago Boulevard.

Student Athletes

From page B-1

York, WHGF opens doors for thousands of underserved children with a passion for movement.

And that passion for movement can help students gain the mindset they need to excel academically as well.

“You have to use what you learn from sports and apply it to your education, whether it is traditional education in school or outside education,” Hilliard says. “It’s the tenacity and determination — the reason why athletes tend to do better even in business later in life or in education is because they have the skills.”

The National Federation of State High School Associations says athletics are “an extension of a good educational program.”

Participation in school-sponsored athletics and clubs is associated with increased math and science test scores and higher expectations for attaining a bachelor’s degree, according to an analysis of national education data.

The NFHS notes that research shows “Students who participate in activity programs tend to have higher grade-point averages, better attendance records, lower dropout rates and fewer discipline problems than students generally.”

Supporting Your Student-Athlete

Although research shows there are clear academic benefits to being a student-athlete, students may sometimes not want to participate in a sport anymore.

There are also health considerations — especially at a time when unprecedented heat makes it dangerous for players to practice outside. High school football players are still disproportionately Black, despite the connection of concussions to traumatic brain injury. And, given Damar Hamlin’s collapse on the field or Bronny James’ sudden health scare, some students and parents may be re-evaluating whether playing a sport is really worth it.

Hilliard’s own son, Bailey “BJ” Mensah, just turned 18. He’s currently on the national team for tumbling for USA Gymnas-

Davis consistently placed ads in local newspapers, including the Michigan Chronicle, to market his new dealership. His core message in the ads was Ed Davis’ Chrysler Dealership is Always Competitive and Good Citizenship is Our Business, too!

Davis made empowering the Black community a priority. Following the Detroit Riot in July 1967, he was instrumental in organizing job training classes in partnership with Dexter Boulevard Redevelopment.

“I had made up my mind that the way for me to help my people now was in preparing them to take advantage of the economic opportunities that were opening up,” Davis wrote. “Jobs meant economic strength.”

On February 26, 1971, Davis closed his Chrysler-Plymouth dealership, writing, “It was time to move onward to new challenges and responsibilities.”

From 1971 to 1974, Davis was a top executive with the Detroit Department of Streets Railways (DSR). He ultimately returned to strategizing how best to advocate on behalf of African Americans and other minorities to gain more automobile dealerships across the nation. Davis is one of the founders of the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD), an advocacy organization founded in 1980 to promote diversity and inclusion across the automobile industry. NAMAD is comprised of Black, Latino, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander car dealers.

Over the years, Davis received dozens of awards and honors connected to his excellence as an automobile dealership owner and community leader. In 1969, he was awarded the Benjamin Franklin Quality Dealer Award and Time’s Magazine Quality Dealer Award. The same year, the Detroit Auto Show presented him with its highest honor for his accomplishments as a dealer in Detroit. In 1996, Davis became the first African American inducted into the industry’s “Automotive Hall of Fame” in Dearborn, Michigan.

Ed Davis passed on May 3, 1999. Yet, 60 years after he opened the nation’s first Black new car “Big Three” dealership in 1963, there are now 313 – and counting –Black franchises selling all brands of new and used automobiles.

“Ed Davis is a true legend. We have his picture on our Wall of Founders here at NAMAD’s headquarters in Largo, Maryland,” Perry Watson IV, NAMAD’s president, told the Michigan Chronicle. “He was on the front line for creating pathways for the Black auto dealers you see today, and he broke through barriers not just for African Americans, but for other minorities and women.”

tics, and he’ll be competing at the World Championships in England in November. Hilliard’s advice for raising young athletes? Listen to them.

“Parents need to listen to their children. Sometimes you need a break, which is fine, and if kids think they need a break, that’s OK,” Hilliard says. “If you need a rest, or you need a break, or you need to change — that’s even important when it comes to finding a coach or working with your coach. It’s all about communication.”

LGBTQ+ Rights in Sports

Black queer students are athletes too. But today’s students are competing in an era where the participation of gender non-conforming and trans students in sports is under attack.

In 22 states, local K-12 schools and state athletic associations have banned transgender student-athletes from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity. Meaning, transgender girls cannot compete with biologically born females, and transgender boys cannot compete with biologically born males.

Hilliard says it’s important to provide opportunities for all youths to grow, and thrive, but also not to scientifically disregard all the things that come with athleticism.

“It’s really important that people have the opportunity in whatever division that you’re in, but you do have to recognize that there is a difference in the development of a born at-birth males and females,” Hilliard says.

“It’s a big issue for a lot of female athletes. I just think everyone needs the opportunity to participate, that’s for sure.”

So, for the 12-year-old football star whose main goal is to make it to the National Football League, or the Black girl who dreams of being the next Gabby Douglas, going for it could keep a student on track academically and build confidence. And sports teams can often be spaces that create more Black joy for students.

“I always look at my foundation as an asset because the kids are there,” Hilliard says. “The teachers look like them. They speak their language. It’s just such a joyful environment.”

Chip Bag Project

From page B-1

with local organizations to amplify their impact. Beyond sleeping bags, they assembled warming kits containing essentials such as hats, hand warmers, and socks— items crucial for survival on the streets.

The first year saw the distribution of 1,000 warming kits, a number that skyrocketed to an astonishing 15,000 in the second year.

What’s truly remarkable is the overwhelming support this project has garnered. Since its inception, donations of chip bags have poured in relentlessly, accumulating a staggering 2.5 million pounds of foil. This outpouring of support extends far beyond Detroit, as chip bags from all corners of the globe, from Singapore to Australia to Africa, have found their way into the project’s embrace.

However, the exponential growth of the Chip Bag Project, while heartening, presented its own set of challenges. The project had begun locally but quickly transformed into a global phenomenon. Oleita acknowledges the overwhelming nature of the response but views it as a testament to the urgency of the mission—a global conversation about climate change and the pressing need for collective action.

“I was funding everything out of my own endeavors and I had to find lots of side hustles just to pay my rent but there was not a day that you would turn on the television and you wouldn’t see my face, this was my purpose, this was my calling, but I was getting zero money,” she expressed. “I didn’t have the knowledge, or I didn’t know anything about with this kind of project, in addition to the chips, financial support to

operate would play a major role.” Although this was a reality for her at that time, she decided to regroup and came back stronger with a tighter plan – for she knew that her work would not be in vain.

In a world where Black individuals are disproportionately affected by issues such as homelessness and displacement, Eradajere Oleita’s leadership is a shining example of the power of representation. Young Black women like Oleita are often underrepresented in positions of influence, but her dedication and vision have broken through barriers.

As a testament to the project’s expanding influence, a branch is set to open in Nigeria this year. This marks a pivotal step toward broadening the conversation about climate change and sustainability on a global scale. Additionally, the Chip Bag Project is embarking on a sustainability tour across countries in Africa and Asia, furthering its mission to raise awareness about climate change and promote sustainable practices.

“Today, Chip Bag’s mission is to increase the conversation around sustainability through demonstration. So, through activations, being part of panel discussions, creating the products that we create, and doing so world-wide,” Oleita expressed. “As for Erada’s mission, I just want be a human and continue to human around the world and be respectful to the earth and to other people that inhabit it and most significantly, make sure that I’m leaving this place ten generations better than the last generation.”

In a world often marred by divisions, this project is a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared purpose—to make the world a little warmer, one chip bag at a time.

Don’t Dim Your Light: How to Attract the Right Relationship by Being Yourself

By Miss AJ Williams

We all want to be loved and accepted for who we are. But sometimes, in our quest for love, we can find ourselves diminishing ourselves or our light in order to make ourselves more appealing to others. We may put on a facade, pretend to be someone we’re not, or make ourselves smaller in order to not seem too intimidating or threatening.

But the truth is, when we diminish ourselves, we’re not actually attracting the right kind of people into our lives. We’re attracting people who are drawn to our false self, not our true self. And these relationships are never truly fulfilling.

So how do we stop diminishing ourselves and start attracting the right kind of relationships? Here are a few tips:

Be authentic. Be yourself, flaws and all. The right people will love you for

who you are, not for who you pretend to be.

Own your power. Don’t be afraid to be strong, confident, and independent. These qualities are attractive to others.

Set boundaries. Don’t let people take advantage of you or make you feel like you have to change who you are in order to be loved.

Love yourself. The most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one you have with yourself. When you love and accept yourself, you’ll naturally attract people who do the same.

Remember, you are worthy of love and acceptance, just the way you are. So don’t dim your light in order to attract a relationship. Be yourself, and the right people will be drawn to you.

Here are some additional thoughts on why it’s important to not diminish yourself in order to attract a relationship: When you diminish yourself,

you’re sending the message that you’re not good enough. This can lead to low self-esteem and self-doubt, which can make it difficult to attract healthy relationships.

When you diminish yourself, you’re giving away your power. You’re allowing others to define who you are and what you’re worth. This can lead to feeling resentful and trapped in relationships.

When you diminish yourself, you’re missing out on the opportunity to connect with people on a genuine level. When you’re being authentic, you’re more likely to attract people who appreciate you for who you are.

So if you’re looking to attract a healthy and fulfilling relationship, start by loving and accepting yourself for who you are. Don’t dim your light in order to make someone else happy. The right person will love you for who you are, flaws and all.

Is Your Ex Blocking Your Energy of Meeting Someone New?

By Miss AJ Williams

Breakups are never easy, and it can take time to heal and move on. But sometimes, our exes can linger in our minds and hearts, making it difficult to open ourselves up to new relationships. If you feel like your ex is blocking your energy of meeting someone new, here are a few things you can do:

Allow yourself to grieve. It’s important to allow yourself to feel your emotions after a breakup, even the negative ones like sadness, anger, and grief. Bottling up your emotions will only make it harder to move on.

Set boundaries. If you’re still in contact with your ex, it’s important to set boundaries. This means limiting communication, avoiding social media stalking, and not talking about your ex to your friends and family.

Focus on yourself. This is the time to focus on your own healing and growth. Do things that make you

happy, spend time with loved ones, and pursue your hobbies and interests.

Visualize your future. Take some time to visualize yourself in a happy, fulfilling relationship with someone new. What qualities are you looking for in a partner? What kind of relationship do you want? This will help you stay positive and motivated as you move on from your ex.

Seek professional help. If you’re struggling to move on from your ex, it’s important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you process your emotions, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and set realistic goals for your future.

If you’re feeling like your ex is blocking your energy of meeting someone new, remember that you’re not alone. Many people go through this after a breakup. With time, healing, and effort, you will be able to move on and find the love you deserve.

Pucker Up! The Language of Kissing

By Miss AJ Williams

Kissing is a universal language of love, passion, and intimacy. But did you know that the way you kiss can also reveal a lot about your personality?

Here are a few things your kissing style says about you:

• If you’re a closed-mouth kisser: You’re cautious and reserved. You don’t like to put yourself out there too much, and you prefer to take things slow.

• If you’re an open-mouth kisser:  You’re passionate and expressive. You’re not afraid to let your feelings show, and you love to give and receive affection.

• If you’re a lip-biter:  You’re playful and teasing. You like to keep your partner guessing, and you enjoy the chase.

• If you’re a tongue-twister: You’re adventurous and spontaneous. You’re always

up for trying new things, and you’re not afraid to get a little wild.

• If you’re a pecker:  You’re affectionate and loving. You prefer to show your love in small, but meaningful ways.

Of course, these are just generalizations. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what your kissing style says about you but it can be unique way of looking at kissing and can reveal something about your personality.

So next time you’re locking lips with someone, take a moment to consider what your kissing style might be saying about you (or the person you’re kissing). You might be surprised at what you learn.

Here are some other things to consider when interpreting your kissing style:

• Your cultural background. Some cultures have more reserved kissing styles than others.

• Your personal experiences. If you had

Here are some additional tips for dealing with an ex who is blocking your energy of meeting someone new: Be patient with yourself. It takes time to heal from a breakup, and there is no set timeline for moving on.

Don’t give up. Just because it’s hard now doesn’t mean it will always be this way. Keep working on yourself and eventually you will find someone who is right for you.

Surround yourself with positive people. Spend time with friends and family who support you and make you feel good about yourself.

Practice self-care. Make sure you are taking care of your physical and emotional health. This includes eating healthy, exercising, getting enough sleep, and doing things that you enjoy.

Remember, you are worthy of love and happiness. Don’t let your ex hold you back from finding the best that life has to offer.

a negative experience with kissing in the past, it could affect your style today.

• Your mood. If you’re feeling happy and excited, your kisses will likely be more passionate.

• The person you’re kissing. Their style

can also influence your own.

Ultimately, the way you kiss is a reflection of who you are as a person. It’s a way of expressing your love, passion, and intimacy. So next time you’re kissing someone, embrace your unique style and enjoy the moment.

Diverse suppliers are good for business and the community

Diverse businesses are the backbone of many of communities. That’s why JPMorgan Chase is committed to helping these businesses develop and thrive. Ted Archer, Global Head of Business Partner Diversity for JPMorgan Chase, recently spoke about why diverse suppliers are good for business and the community.

How did you come to lead supplier diversity at JPMorgan Chase and what inspired you to get involved in this work?

I’ve been at JPMorgan Chase for seven years and most of my career has been dedicated to building business programs that drive economic growth. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working with underrepresented businesses to make sure they have the tools they need to succeed. At JPMorgan Chase, supplier diversity is just one way we make dreams possible for these diverse business owners, their employees and their communities.

Why should companies prioritize supplier diversity?

Supplier diversity provides companies with access to innovation. Diverse suppliers bring new perspectives and solutions to business problems. They also know how to operate efficiently with limited resources, and are agile to suit different business needs. In addition, supplier diversity generates wealth in diverse communities. Diverse suppliers tend to hire within their local areas, providing jobs and incomes, lifting the overall economy. A prosperous and thriving community is good for everyone.

How are you re-thinking supplier diversity? What is JPMorgan Chase doing differently?

An important component of supplier diversity is supplier development. Small and underrepresented businesses often don’t have access to the same resources, financing and contacts that large majority-owned companies do. Building deeper relationships with these businesses enables us to identify other ways to support their growth, including creating connections to networks that lead to contract opportunities, capital and other resources.

How are you amplifying the impact of supplier diversity across the wider business community?

We have mobilized over 100 of our top suppliers to mirror the firm’s commitment to supplier diversity by creating and enhancing their own supplier diversity programs. Through mentoring, coaching and education, we help these companies develop and operate their own sustainable supplier diversity programs, which will generate opportunity and growth for decades.

The results speak for themselves: 85%

Ted Archer

of the businesses enrolled in our mentorship program launched new supplier diversity programs in 2022. Additionally, over the last two years, nearly 90% of our top sup pliers have committed to spending increas es generating more than $6 billion in new spend with underrepresented businesses.

How would a diverse business get started working with large companies like JPMorgan Chase?

For businesses interested in providing services to companies in the private sector, the best first step is to become certified by a diverse business certifying organization. While many business owners are familiar with government diversity certifications, there are also certifications recognized by private-sector corporations, such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council or the Women’s Business Enter prise National Council. These organizations can also help connect businesses with pro spective corporate clients via conferences, seminars and webinars – all designed to provide business owners with information and enable them to meet and network with corporate executives.

In addition, companies with active sup plier diversity programs often have online registration portals through which they invite business owners to share their com pany history and capabilities. JPMorgan Chase has a Supplier Diversity Network, which is a searchable database for our sup plier diversity and sourcing teams to find new diverse businesses when contract op portunities come up.

Are there any final thoughts?

Supplier diversity programs are good for any business, and they have a powerful positive impact on employees, families and communities. It’s an honor to work with diverse businesses to provide jobs, lift local economies and make dreams come true.

Manifestation Meets Faith

By Dr. Kristen Barnes-Holiday, Ph.D., CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

In 2023, we don’t have to look far to hear about or see the word “manifestation.”

Talk show hosts, life coaches, and even social media gurus are consistently regurgitating this word—sometimes recycling definitions and, in other cases, crafting a new lens through which we can consider the term.

In fact, if you do a quick Instagram search, the hashtag “manifestation” has more than 90 million results. NINETY MILLION.

And honestly it all makes sense. In the age of social media, and this perpetual cycle of keeping up with the Joneses, wishing and hoping for some form of better, people inevitably ask the universe to grant them the next big thing OR even a lateral move, a change in pace, scenery, or environment. Manifestation has morphed into an action word. A verb. The act of asking or putting one’s desires into the universe, via verbal or written requests, in hopes of securing such desires.

However, few people realize that manifestation isn’t new, Westernized, or even an ageold African proverb. Manifestation has roots in faith-based religion. In fact, it’s rooted in the world’s oldest religion, Hinduism. When manifestation is used beneath the umbrella of Hinduism, it entails viewing superior beings (or gods) through a plethora of lenses.

Gods can show up (or manifest) in multiple ways and environments, including through Brahma, the Creator, Vishnu, the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer. As K. Largen notes in Finding God Among Our Neighbors: An Interfaith Systematic Theology, there are many manifestations of one universal reality. This makes sense, as Hinduism is a polytheistic religion, consisting of multiple gods or deities.

Even with this, for Christians, manifestation needs faith to survive and ultimately come to fruition. If one is manifesting a better job, a bigger house, or a more purpose-filled life, it is a great idea to start by putting those desires into the universe. And honestly, my plan of action would be to communicate my desires to the Lord first and foremost.

Manifestation, albeit spiritual manifestation.

Through the lens of Christianity, manifestation ONLY works if faith is a close bystander. Imagine wanting something desperately and putting this wish into the universe without a plan of action, expecting that greatness will fall into your lap just because you verbalized a wish. Spiritual manifestation places faith at the nucleus and thereafter activates our plan of action. Faith is grown folks’ security blanket. The formula is simple: I believe. I pray. Therefore, I know (or at least feel some ease from not knowing). Matthew 21:22 reminds us that, “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Haven’t we all experienced the truth that lay in this Bible verse?

Manifestation is an art. A skillful art. Not long ago, I heard an oldie but goodie from Iyanla Vanzant’s affirmation series. She said: “I have the power to manifest my deepest desires.” And she’s right, we all do! But keeping this affirmative statement front and center, I’d start the activation process first—pray—then manifest whatever your heart desires. And don’t stop praying. Ever.

Manifestation meets faith in the most beautiful way that’s nearly incomprehensible. Go along and manifest and pray simultaneously. Until next time…

Love and blessings.

Dr. Kristen Barnes-Holiday, Ph.D. is a professor of English at Wayne County Community College District, a second-year divinity student at Duke University, and a Christian blogger. In addition, she is a teacher, preacher, and lifelong student of the Word of Jesus Christ.

Dr. Kristen Barnes-Holiday

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