MC Digital Edition 4.3.24

UAW Triple Strike Against Detroit Automakers

By Ebony JJ Curry

Michigan Senate Takes Bold Step to Cap Payday Loan Rates Protecting Vulnerable Communities

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

By Ebony JJ Curry

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.

The Michigan Senate recently passed legislation that caps payday loan interest rates, a move particularly impactful for areas predominantly inhabited by Black and Brown populations. Spearheading this legislative effort was state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) with Senate Bill 632 and Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor) with House Bill 4343, both receiving the Senate’s endorsement after initial approval by the Michigan Senate Finance, Insurance, and Consumer Protection Committee in February.

IShortly 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

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

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

niably commendable.

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

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.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

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.

immediately went into contingency mode to protect its operations.

“Entrepreneur of the year – that’s a big deal,” said Brown. “It’s always an honor to be honored and it’s always a blessing to be in a room full of so many talent ed, 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 rep resents our city’s pride.”

Sen. Anthony’s bill introduces a pivotal change by capping the annual percentage rate (APR) for payday loans at 36%, a stark contrast to the existing rates that can soar up to 370%. This measure aims to alleviate the financial strain on individuals trapped in a cycle of debt due to excessive loan interest rates. Anthony expressed her motivation for the bill, reflecting on her experiences in Lansing: “Growing up on the south side of Lansing, I remember seeing predatory lending facilities as well as liquor stores and fast food all around me, and it always bothered me that because I came from a marginalized community, that individuals and organizations and businesses tried to basically come into our community and prey on the most vulnerable among us.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

On the beautiful evening of Thursday, March 28, Detroit’s Huntington Place –with its breathtaking views of the Detroit River and Canada – played host to the 17th annual Michigan Chronicle Women of Excellence Awards ceremony. This prestigious event honored an exceptional class of 50 local Black women who embody the essence of “Living my life like it’s golden” through their impactful contributions and leadership across various sectors of society.

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

ness district that had been the lifeblood of the community.

“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.”

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.

The ceremony was not just an evening of accolades but a vibrant testament to the power and grace of these women, who seamlessly blend roles as professionals, mothers, wives, and more.

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-

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.”

As we delve into the complexities surrounding the payday loan industry, particularly in the context of its operations within underserved communities, a pressing question emerges. It beckons us to ponder the depth and reality of the impact these financial services have on populations that are predominantly Black and Brown. These communities, often on the margins of financial stability, find themselves in the crosshairs of payday lending practices, which offer a lifeline but may force borrowers into a cycle of debt. This situation prompts a critical examination of the ethical dimensions and social responsibilities of such lending practices. Are these services genuinely meeting an unaddressed financial need, or are they capitalizing on the economic fragility of these communities? “Michigan payday lenders disproportionately locate their stores in communities of color in rural areas,” said Anthony. “This means predato-

In its 17th iteration, the event inducted 50 remarkable women from a pool of hundreds of nominees, bringing the distinguished society to more than 850 Women of Excellence. These honorees are champions of economic empowerment, diversity, education, and community service, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to uplifting those around them.

“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.

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. 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.

As soon as doors opened to the grand venue, guests were met with a scene that was both fierce and graceful: vibrant pinks and radiant gold filled the room with an air of sophistication and allure. The event, attended this year by more than 800 individuals, was alive with the energy of celebration and fellowship. The sound of glasses toasting to success mingled with animated conversations, while the buffet was a spectacle, offering an endless array of delectable meals, each dish more enticing than the last, ensuring no one could resist the temptation to indulge. Against this backdrop of refined elegance and jubilation, the presence of Black excellence was undeniable, casting a powerful and proud aura throughout the space.

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.

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.

with immense pride that I extend heartfelt congratulations to an exceptional group of individuals – the 2024 Michigan Chronicle Women of Excellence honorees,” he not only conveyed the profound respect and admiration Real Times Media and the Michigan Chronicle hold for the honorees but also underscored the significance of their remarkable achievements and contributions to the community. He reminded everyone, “This is a safe space to let your hair down when you hear your favorite song,” setting a tone of freedom and celebration.

the city decades ago. 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.

In the heart of Paradise Valley, Blackowned businesses are not just flourishing but thriving, offering diverse services, products, and experiences that

munity service. Your relentless pursuit of excellence in your respective fields has not only set a benchmark for success but has also paved the way for future generations,” Jackson noted. “As we prepare to honor you at the forthcoming Women of Excellence Awards and Induction Ceremony, please know that this is a moment to bask in the recognition you so richly deserve. This accolade serves as a testament to your hardearned accomplishments and the positive impact you’ve made on both the local and broader stage.”

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.

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-

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

Hiram E. Jackson, the vibrant CEO of Real Times Media and Publisher of the Michigan Chronicle, ignited the evening with an energy that was both invigorating and reassuring. With his words, “It is

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

By Ebony JJ Curry

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

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

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

In May 2023, the City of Detroit launched the Detroit

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.

Jackson’s message was clear: amidst the accolades and acknowledgments, the evening was also about joy, about reveling in the moment, and about being unapologetically oneself in a gathering that felt like family. His assurance that the ceremony was a moment to “bask in the recognition you so richly deserve” resonated deeply, inviting honorees and guests alike to fully embrace and celebrate their successes in an environment brimming with support and shared triumph.

ulation.

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

“You, the honorees, exemplify the pinnacle of professional dedication and com-

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.”

Among the night’s highlights were the special awards that shone a spotlight on the transformative impact of these dynamic women. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Faye Alexander Nelson by her husband, celebrating her extensive contributions to Michigan’s community, particularly through her leadership at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and other significant roles. Nelson’s dedication to fostering equitable opportunities and her involvement in various influential boards mark her as a

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.

front

cine and healthcare, may

member of the coalition that launched Reproductive Freedom for All, a ballot initiative to affirm the right to abortion and reproductive freedom in the state constitution,” said Vasquez Giroux. “The bottom line is that we will do everything in our power to keep abortion legal in Michigan, and if SCOTUS makes that impossible, we will do everything we can to ensure our patients can access the care they need.”

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true pillar of excellence and service.

“What has truly been the highlight of my career are the lessons learned along the way,” Nelson stated as she accepted her award. “The importance of giving grace. Giving grace to others and giving grace to yourself. I’ve learned that nothing will ever be perfect and that we just have to do our best. Also, embracing purpose. Living a life of purpose and meaning, always remembering to give back. And certainly, last but not least, faith. Knowing that nothing that you do or accomplish, the challenges that you have experienced, you are never alone, and you are loved.

So, with grace, purpose, and faith I extend my deep gratitude to the many individuals who have provided their support to my growth and development. To the Michigan Chronicle and Real Times Media, thank you for thinking enough of me to honor me with such a prestigious award.”

rants:

Committee

Elected officials are also working to keep Roe v. Wade intact thus holding off Michigan’s nor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement turned’ are no longer theoretical. I want every no matter what happens in D.C., I’m going to fight like hell to protect access to safe, legal abortion in cations, overturning Roe v. Wade would impact several systems across the spectrum. With the potential to drive both foster and adoption numbers upward, a ban on abortions could leave many women to choose a less safe route restoring ‘back alley’ and illegal abortion practices, including self-abortions. Moreover, African American women and women of color, who already have a long-storied history with access and inclusion in medi-

Women Of Excellence

able to decide and control if, when and how to become a parent is central to building and living a healthy, happy life,” said Vasquez Giroux.

will rule in the upcoming sion, advocates on both sides of the argument are willing to continue their “Overturning Roe v. Wade would be a terrible break with nearly 50 years of judicial precedent and – more importantly – a blow against individual freedom. It is my hope

ings of this draft. If that is not the case, we need to ity Leader Schumer and Gov. Whitmer in support of their efforts to preserve the right to reproductive freedom,” said Chair Alisha Bell, on behalf of the Wayne County Commission.

figures close to her heart –a mentee, a Soror and her best friend, and her daughter, highlighting an evening charged with emotion and pride. “In addition to her ability to be an amazing health care professional and leader, I get to shed light on what an amazing mother my mom is,” said Williams’ daughter, Jasmine Williams. “From a young age I realized my mom was very different because I grew up in spaces like this. I got to see and witness what it was like to be raised by a true trailblazer. I’ve always been aware of my mother’s excellence but as an adult and someone who has recently entered the corporate space, I can fully appreciate the hard work and dedication it has taken for her to get to where she is. I’m so honored to be here as your daughter but also one of the many young women you continuously poor into. So, when I get to say I get it from my momma, it means something very different to me.”

hold hearings

Denise Brooks-Williams was honored as the Woman of the Year, an accolade powerfully presented by

5013 and other legislation that would ban or limit the use of noknock or quick knock warrants, and urging the state legislature to pass meaningful reform and advise Gov. Whitmer to sign the bill after the legislature adopts it.

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

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

With a distinguished career in healthcare spanning three decades, Brooks-Williams’s visionary

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

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

leadership at Henry Ford Health System has been instrumental in advancing health equity and operational excellence, making her a beacon of professional and community dedication.

“Congratulations, congratulation, congratulations!” expressed Denise as she accepted her Woman of the Year Award. “Thank you, Real Times Media, for lifting us. I know many of us have been honored in spaces, but this one is particularly positive because it’s us and it’s for us by us. I don’t take that for granted. All they have done for our community; this recognition is something incredible.”

moment resonated with purpose and warmth. And then there was DJ Fingers, whose jams did more than fill the room with melodies; they sparked collective energy, prompting both the honorees and their cheerleaders to embrace the rhythm of celebration together in shared joy and accomplishment.

Payday Loans

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

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

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

The event was not just a ceremony but a celebration of sisterhood and achievement, with co-founder and managing partner at Great Lakes Legal Group PLLC Jehan Crump-Gipson as the emcee and the guiding voice of the night, weaving stories and achievements into a tapestry of inspiration.

As the 2024 Women of Excellence Awards drew to a close, it was evident that the night was a resounding affirmation of the brilliance and resilience of Black women. It was a celebration of not just the honorees but of the collective strength and grace of women who lead, inspire, and transform their communities and beyond. The Michigan Chronicle’s Women of Excellence Awards continue to be a beacon of recognition for those who, through their leadership and service, illuminate the path for others to follow.

ry lending has the biggest impact on family farmers, on working poor, and on again on low-income individuals in every corner of our state.”

Moreover, in considering the structural barriers and systemic inequities that pervade these neighborhoods, one must also question the broader societal and policy frameworks that allow for such predatory practices to flourish. As this issue unfolds, it becomes evident that the debate around payday loans is not merely a financial discourse but a profound inquiry into the intersections of race, poverty, and justice within our society.

annual reports on payday loans, ensuring ongoing legislative oversight of the industry.

Cathy Nedd, the driving force behind Real Times Media as President, orchestrated the event with a masterful touch, ensuring every

2024 WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE HONOREES

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

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

Women of Excellence is more than just an award; it is a sisterhood that stands the test of time, a sisterhood that continues to uphold its very foundation. Women of Excellence are those who exemplify the stature, poise, and grace that characterizes the essence of womanhood, all while maintaining the delicate balance of filling the roles of helpmate, mother, teacher, and professional.

Despite opposition from some quarters, the legislation received bipartisan support. Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R-Lawton) voiced his concerns, stating, “Killing the payday lending industry in the state will do nothing to help the thousands of Michiganders who turn to short-term loans to make ends meet.

Following the Senate’s approval, several advocacy groups, including the Michigan League for Public Policy (MLPP), voiced their support. MLPP President and CEO Monique Stanton stated, “We commend Sen. Sarah Anthony for sponsoring this bill, which would go a long way in helping make loan repayment more manageable and limit the number of individuals and families who end up trapped in debt.” Other supporting organizations include the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM), Project GREEN, the Michigan Poverty Law Program, the Center for Responsible Lending, and the Michigan Catholic Conference, all united in their advocacy for more equitable lending practices.

If you think payday lender interest rates are high, wait until you hear what your local loan shark charges or how he goes about collecting when you’re late.” Yet, the bill passed with a 24-13 vote, showcasing a significant cross-party agreement on the issue.

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

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

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

Women of Excellence are the champions of our economic empowerment and diversity, the backbone of our religious and educational organizations, and driving forces in politics and community service. In character, in manner, and in style, we believe you embody virtues of not only excellence but self-confidence and dignity as well. We celebrate you for your personal code of ethics, exceptional courage, unwavering conviction, and extraordinary grace. It is truly an honor to induct you into our Society of Women of Excellence.

Sen. Anthony, speaking to reporters, expressed her surprise and satisfaction with the bipartisan support: “I’m really shocked by how much bipartisan support these bills we’re able to garner today,” she said. “But I think that’s a testament that it’s not a partisan issue, that poverty is in literally every corner of our state.”

Rep. Conlin’s House Bill 4343, which also passed, mandates the Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) to submit

Property Tax Equity

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about getting the keys to a house; it’s about breaking down barriers that have been built up over generations. High property taxes and the threat of losing your home can make the goal of homeownership feel like a constantly moving target. It’s more than just numbers on a bill; it’s about the right to build a secure life in the place you call home. For the community here, fighting for fair homeownership isn’t just about property—it’s about justice, stability, and reclaiming a piece of the American Dream that everyone deserves a fair shot at.

“In Detroit we now have evidence that the lowest value homes – until this day –continue to be over-assessed and we are here to put a stop to it,” said Atuahene. The urgency of the situation was underscored by U.S. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, who expressed deep concern over the persistent overassessment of Detroit’s most vulnerable homeowners. “I am deeply concerned that after years of community organizing and advocacy, testimonies from impacted residents, and legislative reforms, thousands of the most vulnerable Detroit homeowners are still being illegally over-assessed on their property taxes…Thankfully, the Property Tax Reform Ordinance was enacted to remedy this exact situation, and I hope City Council and the City of Detroit will take appropriate steps to fix these assessments and protect our residents.”

Echoing the sentiments of many, Council President Sheffield emphasized the crit-

“What I have learned is that I can never predict what’s happening in the House, and I wouldn’t be so bold as to ever try to do that,” said Anthony. “But we’re seeing a trend. We’re seeing that people are hearing directly from their constituents, and the same constituents that are over here in the Senate are over in the House. And so I hope that more people who have been really impacted by predatory lending start to contact their members in the House and share their stories. Once you hear the stories, you are compelled to vote yes. So that’s what I’m hopeful for.”

This legislative move seemingly marks a significant stride towards protecting Michigan’s most vulnerable populations from predatory lending, aligning state policy with the broader fight for economic justice in underserved communities.

ical nature of the issue, stating, “The most egregious part of the systematic over assessment of properties in Detroit has been this issue of regressivity. While we recognize that the Assessor’s job is difficult the stakes are too high to sit idly by while the lowest valued homes are consistently over assessed… Thus, I join the Coalition in calling for a moratorium on foreclosures for the homes valued under $34,700. I also join you in calling on the City’s Assessor to reduce the assessed values on all the homes valued at $34,700 and under.”

As the city awaits the implementation of these resolutions, the spotlight is on the Duggan administration and city officials to take decisive action.

With Detroit’s City Council standing united against systemic property tax injustices, a new chapter unfolds, promising a fairer horizon for homeownership. This critical stance, fueled by the relentless advocacy of community groups and backed by compelling research, challenges the status quo and paves the way for a future where every Detroit resident can truly plant roots without fear of unjust loss.

However, this turning point brings us face-to-face with essential questions about owning a home in Detroit and how fair the taxes on those homes really are. Are these changes the start of a new, more just way of doing things, or just the first step in a much longer fight? As the city watches and waits for these resolutions to take effect, the collective hope is that this moment marks not just a victory but a turning point toward lasting equity and justice in the place so many call home.

Al Nelson Jr. with Lifetime Achievement Awardee, Faye Alexander Nelson.

Woman of the Year Denise Brooks Williams with Briana DuBose, Executive Director, EcoWorks.

By Jeremy Allen EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Roots.

Wayne Memorial High School graduate and Detroit-born Rashad Williams was named to the D1 Men’s HBCU Second Team All-American Team today after posting a superb season as a member of the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions.

As a graduate student with senior eligibility, Williams started 16 games this season and appeared in 29 games. He turned in his best collegiate season, averaging 17.7 points, three assists, 1.9 rebounds, and just under one steal per game while shooting 41 percent from three. He was second on the team in assists with 87. He sat out last season after transferring from St. Louis.

In addition to Williams’ All-American honors, he was also selected to participate in the HBCU All-Star game, which will take place April 7 at Grand Canyon University

in Phoenix, Ariz., and will tip off at 12 p.m. CDT on CBS and Paramount Plus.

Williams will play on Team Ben Wallace, which consists primarily of SWAC players plus two from the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, an NCAA Division II HBCU conference.

In high school, Williams spent his first two seasons at Romulus High School before transferring to Wayne Memorial High School, where, as a senior, he averaged 23.7 points, 5.1 rebounds and 6.7 assists, shooting .503 from three-point. He also became the first player from Wayne Memorial to earn Associated Press first-team all-state honors in 20 years and was a Detroit Free Press All-West first-team selection, in addition to being a Mr. Basketball candidate.

Williams spent his freshman season at Cleveland State University before playing his sophomore and junior seasons at Oakland University. He spent one season at St. Louis University and two at Arkansas-Pine Bluff, the first of which he sat as a redshirt due to transfer rules.

The Golden Lions finished eighth in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) with an overall record of 13-18 and an 8-10 conference record.

By Amber Ogden CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Pistons and Pensole Lewis College recently hosted the MARTK’D “Art on Sneaker” Invitational, a Detroit-based student sneaker design competition. The event was lively, with many eager onlookers, including proud family members, passionate sneakerheads, and discerning judges. The competition featured 10 Detroit-area student contestants, each competing to have their design produced by Reebok and sold at a local sneaker boutique. Only three winners and an honorable mention emerged victorious.

Kristal Soto’s shoe design won first place in the competition, where she artfully showcased her Puerto Rican heritage. Her design was a beautiful portrayal of her culture, leaving a lasting impression on the judges.

“I feel like you go through ups and downs; it was really hard making the design for this shoe. I

didn’t know it would be like this, but I’m glad I made it,” Soto said.

Mekhia Knighten’s presentation stood out during the competition. She shared a captivating story about Misty Copeland, the first Black ballerina, who inspired her to design a unique pair of shoes. She also shared that she is a ballerina and has danced with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Mekhia also delved into the history of the Atlantic Slave Trade and how it influenced her shoe design. As a result of her powerful storytelling, she secured second place in the competition.

“Oh my god, it’s mind-blowing because I did not think right after seeing all the other designs. I wasn’t sure what the judges were looking for. But I truly feel like I put my heart out there, and the judges saw them, “Knighten said.

Kiarra Washington’s shoe design, which placed third, was

By Donald James SENIOR WRITER

There’s an old saying, “Behind every great man is a great woman.”

If true, in the case of Berry Gordy, founder and chief architect of Motown Records and the Motown Sound, four phenomenal women stood behind him – his sisters Esther, Anna, Loucye, and Gwen. The Gordy sisters not only stood behind their brother but also next to him and sometimes in front of the man to help put Motown Records on the world’s music map in 1959.

Throughout the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s, and beyond, the Gordy Sisters were a force to be reckoned with as they blazed many trails that were previously uncharted for women, especially

Left to Right, Esther, Anna, Mother Gordy, Gwen, and Loucye (Photo Courtesy of Berry Gordy’s 1994 autobiography)

(middle) Dion Walcott, President and Founder of MARTK’D, with Judges and 11 Student Designers

Art on Sneakers Gordy Sisters

an impressive combination of functionality and art. It featured multiple record players spinning, creating a visually striking effect. Kiarra intended to create an aesthetically pleasing design that reflects art’s expressive nature, and she did just that.

“My inspiration was based on things I do, like some jobs. I like combining these colors and putting them on the shelf to see how it works,” Washington said.

On March 9, 40 student participants started the competition to create a shoe design to present to a panel of judges. After a thorough evaluation, the competition was narrowed down to the top 10 contestants.

Aydin Santiago, the winner of the 2023 ‘Art on Sneaker’ competition, draws some of her inspiration from musical legends like Queen Latifah and Public Enemy. She is determined to follow her passion for merchandising and art directing and has planned a trip to Paris in the upcoming summer.

“I never thought I was going to do shoes. You don’t think of shoes as the first thing in art; you always think about big paintings, but this experience also opened my eyes to what I want to do as a career and a job as an artist and to make people think of artistry as more profitable. Having business and artistry come together rather than be separate is my goal,” Santiago said.

With a theme of ‘Music, Motion, and Design,’ a virtual boot camp was organized for the final contestants. They received guidance from Pensole Lewis College, the Pistons, and Stackwell to prepare for their final design submission. Each contestant was handed a pair of blank Reebok shoes to work on for the following week. The culmination of their work was presented in person on Saturday.

Dion Walcott, president and founder of MARTK’D, stressed that all the young participants were winners regardless of the final results by congratulating them all and leaving them inspired to keep striving and continue to take risks.

“I want to thank the young people for teaching us adults and reminding us it’s important for us to continue to take risks and learn as we finish. As we get older, we often get set in our ways, so for these young people to come out today with no training and take risks by using sneakers as an expression is really something. We have to be reminded as we continue to do more things, at whatever age we are, to continue to try and take risks,” Walcott said.

Nehemiah Hurst, a 12th grader attending Bowling Green State University on a full scholarship in the fall, received an honorable mention for his shoe design. He shared his profound experience after his second shoe design and said he took a leap of faith.

“Today’s shoe design represents me growing up in Detroit and how it plays into the theme of music, motion, and design. So, with that shoe over there (1st shoe he designed), I wanted to capture who I am. I want to accept change and go with life as it goes. So, I wanted to capture that feeling of motion but moving forward and the freedom of being,” Hurst said.

The competition winners’ designs will be showcased and sold in Two18, owned by Pontiac native and Detroit-based rapper Roland “Ro Spit” Coit. Two18 is located in the Eastern Market of Detroit, and the winners’ designs will be available for purchase in March 2025.

the business and financial ends of the company and music industry.

When Motown Records officially moved to Los Angeles in the early 1970s, taking the heart and soul of the company with it, Esther stayed in Detroit, becoming the face of the label in the Motor City. While she sat on numerous civic, arts, and civil rights boards locally and nationally, Esther devoted thousands of hours to meticulously combing through 10s of thousands of discarded documents, photos, awards, and other artifacts and memorabilia left behind by the company’s westward move. In 1985, under Esther’s vision, The Motown Museum opened. “She collected Motown’s history long before we knew we were making it,” Berry Gordy said in previous interviews about the Museum’s genesis. Her husband, the late Michigan State Representative George Edwards, preceded Esther in death. Esther Gordy (Edwards) died on August 24, 2011. She was 91.

Anna Gordy (Gaye), the second oldest of the Gordy sisters, was born in Georgia on January 28, 1922, before migrating to Detroit with her family. Anna matriculated through the city’s school system before becoming a music pioneer in her own right. Before her brother Berry started Motown Records in 1959, Anna was already a record distributor and entrepreneur; she owned Anna Records with her sister, Gwen Gordy. Motown absorbed the record company in the early ‘60s. Anna Records recorded dozens of artists, including The Falcons, David Ruffin, Joe Tex, and Johnny Bristol. The record label’s biggest hit was “Money (That’s What I Want),” recorded by singer/songwriter Barrett Strong.

Anna wrote – with Marvin GayeBaby I’m for Real and The Bells, recorded by The Originals. Anna and Marvin also co-wrote Flyin High (In the Friendly Sky), and God is Love for Marvin Gaye’s momentous album What’s Going On, released on Motown Records in 1971. Anna reportedly met Gaye when he moved to Detroit as a singer/session drummer, first for her label and later for Motown. Gaye was in his early 20s, and Anna was in her mid-to-late 30s. The two were married from 1964 to 1977. In 1978, Marvin released Here My Dear, a double album on the Tamla label (a subsidiary of Motown). The recordings painted the personal and raw recollections of his marriage to Anna, which ended in divorce. Nevertheless, the two reportedly reconciled as friends years later. Anna Gordy (Gaye) died on January 31, 2014. She was 92.

Loucye Gordy (Wakefield), the third oldest of the Gordy sisters, was born

in 1924 in Detroit. She served as vice president of Jobete Music Publishing Company. Aside from her executive acumen, Loucye co-wrote songs in the early 1960s. In conjunction with her brother Berry and Motown’s Smokey Robinson, she penned Don’t Let Him Shop Around. The song, released by singer Debbie Dean, Motown’s first white artist, was a clever answer to Smokey and The Miracles’ 1960 hit, Shop Around.

In the late 1950s, Loucye married tenor saxophonist Ron Wakefield, who played on many Motown recordings, including The Miracles’ Shop Around. Loucye Gordy Wakefield passed suddenly on July 24, 1965, at a Detroit hospital. She was 40. Several years after her death, the Loucye Wakefield Scholarship Fund was established to provide funds to selected Detroit high school graduates headed to college.

Gwen Gordy (Fuqua)

Gwen Gordy (Fuqua), the youngest of the Gordy sisters, was born Nov. 26, 1927, in Detroit. She went on to become a savvy businesswoman and a talented songwriter/composer. Her first entrepreneurial venture was operating a photo concession at Detroit’s Flame Show Bar, a legendary venue where top local and national singers and recording artists performed. She made many contacts at the venue that would pay dividends in the late 1950s into the ‘60s to benefit Anna Records, which she

co-founded with her sister Anna Gordy. Her connections also aided Berry in the upstart of Motown Records. Gwen later founded and successfully operated three other music companies: Gwen Glenn Productions, Der-Gleen Publishing, and Old Brompton Road Publishing.

As a songwriter, Gwen co-wrote several hits, such as Lonely Teardrops (Jackie Wilson), All I Could Do Was Cry (Etta James), Distant Lover (Marvin Gaye), That’s What Boys Are Made for (Tammi Terrell), and more. In 1961, Gwen married Harvey Fuqua, lead singer of the doo-wop group the Moonglows. Following a divorce, she married G.C. Cameron, formerly of the Spinners. Gwen Gordy Fuqua died in November 1999 in San Diego. She was 71.

Without the pioneering vision and forward thinking of the four Gordy sisters - Esther, Anna, Loucye, and Gwen – it’s unclear if Motown would have reached its pinnacle of greatness. However, in his 1994 autobiography, To Be Loved, The Music, The Magic, The Memories of Motown, Berry Gordy alluded to his sisters’ impact on him, his vision, and Motown Records.

“The Gordy women were always in charge,” he wrote as a caption to a photo of the four sisters and his mother, Bertha Ida Fuller Gordy. Berry also dedicated his best-selling autobiography to two of his sisters, writing, “To my sisters, Gwen and Anna, who think they own me – and they do!”

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Hidden Barriers: The Invisible Hand of Discrimination in Black Homeownership

In the pursuit of homeownership, Black Americans face systemic barriers that impede their progress at every stage of the process. From mortgage application rejections to appraisal discrimination, the road to owning a home remains disproportionately challenging for Black prospective buyers. Despite legislative efforts to address discrimination, the disparities persist, hindering Black Americans’ ability to build generational wealth.

According to the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), Black loan applicants in the United States are more than twice as likely to be denied a home mortgage compared to their white counterparts. While both Black and white applicants experienced a slowdown in loan denials since the 2008 financial crisis, the gap between denial rates has widened significantly. Currently, 15% of Black applicants are denied mortgages, compared to 6% of white applicants.

The homeownership gap between Black and white Americans has also widened over the years. While nearly 45 percent of Black households own their homes, more than 74% of white households are homeowners. In 1970, the gap in homeownership between Black and white households was 24%, but today, it stands at 30%. This vast disparity in homeownership rates exacerbates the massive income gap between Black and white households. Home equity, the largest source of wealth for both groups, is significantly affected by discrimination in the housing market. In 2022, the average white family held 13 times the wealth of the average Black family. Despite presentative efforts like the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which outlawed racial discrimination in housing, discrimination and systemic racism persist across the country.

The state of Black housing, based on data from sources like the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act and census data, highlights some positive trends alongside persistent challenges. Black millennials, for instance, represented the largest segment of Black homebuyers in recent years, driven by factors such as low interest rates and remote work opportunities. However, mortgage application rates for both Black and white millennials dipped in 2021, with white millennials experiencing a steeper decline.

Interestingly, Black female prospective homebuyers are applying for and being approved for home loans at higher rates compared to previous years. In 2022, the number of applications from Black women surged by 14%, while applications from Black men declined. Despite this, Black applicants, particularly women, still trail behind their white counterparts in securing mortgages. The reasons for mortgage denials reveal further disparities. Debt-to-income ratio and credit history are cited as common reasons for denial, with Black applicants facing higher rates of rejection due to these factors compared to white applicants. Moreover, Black borrowers are more likely to rely on high-cost loans, further exacerbating the financial burden.

This underscores the enduring impact

Are New Housing Developments in Detroit Aligned with the Needs and Budgets of Detroiters?

By Amber Ogden

Residential developments have been popping up all over downtown Detroit, including on the Riverfront and Woodward Avenue, as seen with the new Hudson construction site. With so many Detroit residents in dire need of affordable housing options, the city’s approach, at times, has seemed to focus on incentivizing developments that attract outsiders rather than serving locals.

With housing developments such as The Residences Water Square that recently opened on the Detroit Riverfront, the $4000 (a month) question is: Do new housing developments like these fit the actual needs of current Detroiters?

During Detroit’s bankruptcy proceedings in 2013-2014, Sterling Group acquired the former Joe Louis Arena site. This acquisition was made through a $14.1 million deal with the city involving bond insurer Financial Guaranty Insurance Co. After the Red Wings moved to Little Caesars Arena, Joe Louis Arena was closed in 2017 and demolished in 2020.

“I want people to understand this was not an arm’s length transaction. Sterling Group purchased this land from the city at market value. They didn’t need any subsidy to build the project because, in essence, this property came out of bankruptcy,” Chase L. Cantrell, Executive Director of Building Community Value, said. “But because of how they got the land, it’s dangerous for us to forget what happened and then look forward to seeing that there is no affordable housing or pathway for the average Detroiter to live in these units.”

Cities like New York, Chicago, and even Los Angeles offer tax incentives to real estate developers to build luxury apartments priced too high for the average resident. But this is Detroit, a historical-

ly known blue-collar, working-class city. Compared to New York and Chicago, Detroit needs more sustainable public infrastructure, such as public transportation, making it less affordable overall. Costs quickly add up for the average family in Detroit. For example, Detroit has some of the highest insurance rates and city taxes in the nation, and oftentimes, the quality of service doesn’t align with the price residents pay.

“Places like New York and Chicago have public infrastructure and public transportation, which makes it easier for people to get around. They have 15-minute neighborhoods with accessible stores, pharmacies, and doctor’s offices. And that is a factor in thinking about price points, too, even if we want to attract people outside of the city to come back to it, given the overall prices of housing and how unaffordable it is nationwide, right? That’s the problem,” Tristan Taylor, a Detroit resident and Detroit Will Breathe Organizer, said.

According to Detroit Future City, the city’s median household income of $36,140 in 2021 was slightly more than half that of the region’s $67,153 — a difference of over $31,000. The cost of housing in Detroit is determined by the regional median income, which is significantly higher than the median income of Detroit. As a result, most Detroit residents are priced out of the more desired housing market simply because they can’t afford it. “These are price points for a median income, which is half of what is calculated off the market rate based on AMI, the area median income. The problem with that is Detroiter’s median income is half of what the area is basing that on by itself. That leaves Detroiters out of the equation regarding the price point for these apartments,” Taylor said. “Even considering some of the amenities that come

Detroit Schools on the Brink of Educational Transformation with $94.4 Million Literacy Settlement Plan

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

Detroit’s school district is in the final stages of planning how to allocate the $94.4 million received from a literacy lawsuit settlement. Superintendent Nikolai Vitti shared the details of the proposed plan with the school board’s finance committee last Friday. The plan, which is in line with recommendations from a task force that sought community input, will be discussed further at a school board retreat on April 15.

The roots of this financial windfall trace back to a lawsuit settled in 2020, originally filed in 2016, which highlighted a critical failure on the state’s part to provide adequate education to Detroit’s students over an extended period of nearly two decades of state control. In the wake of this settlement, Vitti and his team have been hard at work, charting out a path that aims to not just meet but exceed educational standards at various levels. “Our goal is to accelerate … and to outperform city charter, county average, state average,” Vitti emphatically stated, signaling a bold vision for Detroit’s educational future.

Central to the district’s plan is a significant boost in academic interventionists, particularly for students in grades K-4. These specialists, who offer tailored oneon-one or small group support, are seen as

critical in addressing early-grade literacy challenges. An unexpected financial boost from the Ballmer Group, covering summer school program costs, has provided the district with greater flexibility to channel more funds toward this initiative. The district, which currently employs federal and grant dollars for a similar purpose at some schools, aims to extend this support across all elementary schools, nearly 80 in total, that cater to grades K-4.

However, the sustainability of these positions after the three-year mandate of the settlement expenditure stands as a significant concern. Vitti, acknowledging this re-

ality, remains optimistic about leveraging other funding sources and the potential of “natural attrition” to mitigate the impact. He reassures, “I don’t think we will be in a chaotic situation,” despite the looming challenge of a dwindling pool of available academic interventionists.

The comprehensive plan also includes online tutoring, expansion of the City Year program, and stipends for the Let’s Read tutors, adding layers to the student support system. Teachers, the backbone of the educational framework, are not left behind, with proposals for enhanced literacy training, ESL certification incentives, additional

coaching, and a merit-based pay system, among the top items poised to create a more conducive learning environment.

Family engagement is another critical aspect, with the district planning to distribute culturally responsive books, host literacy events, and provide stipends for parental participation in literacy-focused sessions. Yet, the shadow of chronic absenteeism, with a staggering 66% of students missing significant classroom time during the 202223 school year, poses a significant threat to the efficacy of these initiatives. Vitti points out the limitation in using the settlement funds directly to combat absenteeism but hopes that initiatives aimed at lowering class sizes and incentivizing engagement might indirectly address this pervasive issue.

As Detroit stands on the threshold of this ambitious educational reform, the question that echoes through the community is whether these initiatives will be sufficient to overturn decades of educational challenges. Is pouring funds into literacy and student involvement going to be the breakthrough Detroit’s kids need? There’s a palpable sense of hope mixed with a touch of caution among residents as they watch the school district take on this critical mission. Everyone’s rooting for a win, not just for the sake of the schools but for the future of every child in Detroit.

Anthony O. Kellum

Housing Development

From page A-5

with the studios and one two-bedroom apartment, there’s nothing for families. How do you build a viable city if you don’t have those options for the people in the city?”

When considering a viable city, does the city offer affordable and safe environments for residents?

For $4000 a month, renters get a high-rise, one-bedroom apartment less than two miles from Southwest Detroit, a part of the city continuously blanketed by ongoing environmental pollutants. The City of Detroit has completed retrofits of Southwest Detroit homes to protect them from the impact of the Gordie Howe Bridge construction, which is set to be completed by fall 2025. The juxtaposition of these two realities, located less than a five-minute drive from community to community, is stark.

The University of Michigan reports that Southwest Detroit has the highest levels of air pollution in Michigan and ranks among the top five percent in the country. It is crucial to prioritize using public funds for initiatives, including transportation, affordable housing, and education, that have a long-lasting and positive impact on the community. Addressing immediate problems with a temporary fix is not enough; an effort must be made to create sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.

“It isn’t an environment where affordable housing is a priority. There have certainly been some preservation efforts. However,

that have historically failed to sustain long-term occupancy in Detroit. There are concerns they will be vacant again in the future. There is a housing crisis, and much of the reasoning behind specific actions is to address this issue. The demand for housing is high, and efforts are being made to encourage people to return to the city. But at what cost?

“I am concerned about how the city and developers are trying to help grow the city’s population and econ omy this way. This is the same policy 20 other cities have when they compete for the same crop of people.

But what happens when we (Detroiters) have all these empty apartments because the people who could afford them already settled else where outside the city?”

Taylor said.

Cantrell says it isn’t a surprise that these luxury developers are testing the boundaries of the housing market this way; it’s an experiment. “They believe they have the client base for these kinds of apart ments and understand that they far exceed the median income of Detroiters. The average Detroiter is not the target audience.”

NAACP National President Urges Black Athletes to Boycott States that Eliminate DEI

By Donald James SENIOR WRITER

Most of the nation is fixated on the NCAA’s Basketball March Madness Tournament to see which team will win the National Championship.

But Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, has taken to the media urging Black high school athletes to turn down offers to play at colleges and universities in states that have already or are considering future possibilities of eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs.

“I fervently hope that high school student-athletes looking to apply to colleges and universities not consider schools that are reversing DEI programs, and they should let the recruiters, coaches, and admissions officers know why they’ve opted not to join their programs,” said Johnson. “I would hope that students currently enrolled at schools that have dismantled DEI consider, in consultation with their parents and guardians, whether their academic needs might be better served elsewhere.”

According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, since early 2023, legislators in dozens of states have introduced at least 65 anti-DEI bills aimed at prohibiting colleges from hiring a more diverse faculty, removing cultural competency training, and undermining comprehensive curriculums.

In January, the Florida Board of Governors banned public colleges from spending state funding on all DEI programs. This followed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signing a law defunding DEI programs in the Sunshine State. The University of Florida was quick to make changes, announcing that it had closed the office of its Chief Diversity Officer to be in step with the Board of Governors’ directive.

Former NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, who played college ball at the University of Florida, expressed disdain for his alma mater’s decision to close down the school’s DEI office.

“We need diverse thinking and backgrounds to enhance our University, and the DEI department is necessary to accomplish those goals,” Smith said in a statement posted on X, “Instead of showing courage and leadership, we continue to fail based on systemic issues, and with this decision, UF has conformed to the political pressures of today’s time. To the many minority athletes

at UF, please be aware and vocal about this decision by the University, now closing the doors on other minorities without any oversight.”

In a letter dispatched to Charlie Baker, the president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the NAACP’s top executive intimated its position that “current and prospective student-athletes reconsider any decision to attend and compete at a predominantly White institution in Florida.”

Others agree with Smith’s and Johnson’s positions.

“For me, in a lot of ways, it’s hypocritical for an institution to benefit from Black talent and Black excellence in athletes and not have a similar investment in their success as students and as human beings,” said Frank Harris, a professor who teaches diversity and equity in higher education at San Diego State University.

According to ESPN, in 2022-23, the NCAA generated nearly $1.3 billion in revenue, more than half of which was distributed to Division I schools. This revenue increased from $1.14 billion reported for the previous fiscal year. NCAA football, in particular, is a huge money maker, with Black athletes’ massive contributions paving the way for lucrative gains for a multiplicity of colleges and universities.

“The same states that seek to undermine educational opportunity and holistic learning environments are profiting to the tune of millions of dollars a year off the backs of Black talent, their families, and fans,” John-

Committing to the Cross

By Dr. Kristen Barnes-Holiday, Ph.D., Contributing Columnist

A few weeks ago, my pastor spoke about our purposes in Christ. And as she recounted Jesus’ purpose and journey to the cross, she said, “Jesus could look beyond the cross because He knew what awaited him on the other side.” As these words were uttered, a series of thoughts drifted through my memory bank, foremost highlighting the omnipotence and omnipresence of God, but also the significance of Jesus’ journey to and through the cross.

Considering that we’ve just celebrated one of the most sacred times in Christianity—Holy Week culminating with Resurrection Sunday—it is vital to consider the impact of the Resurrec tion through both a his torical and contemporary lens. However, it is important to begin this reflection by looking beyond the cross and the aftermath that immediately followed Jesus’ Resur rection to the impact of the cross within a contemporary context.

John 12 recounts Jesus’ pilgrimage through Jerusa lem approximately a week before His agonizing death on the cross. This passage is legendary because it illu minates Jesus’ passion for the people and his quest to grant humanity salvation, and, lest we forget—John si multaneously captures Jesus’ humanness leading up to this pivotal passage. It is important to remember that God came to the earth as a human being to intimately understand humanness and pay the debt of sin, granting humankind eternal life. So, as we see in John 12, Jesus is on his last tour, so to speak, as a human being. While the people have gathered to witness Jesus Christ—as He made his way through the crowd on the back of a donkey—shouting “Hosanna,” meaning, save me now (from the Roman oppressors), Jesus was actually there to celebrate being the King, the Messiah and the Prince of Peace. Jesus was on a quest to rescue the souls of the people. And though Jesus was a marked man because not everyone liked nor celebrated him, and while his om nipotence allowed him to be cognizant of his upcoming crucifixion, He was well aware of what awaited him on the other side of the cross—saving His people and a re birth amongst humanity.

Jesus endured the cross for a price that cannot be dis puted.

Jesus’ sacrifice reminds me of a looming thought as we descend from a week of holiness and celebration. Though Jesus physically bore the cross—and praise God that Christians do not have to experience this form of suffering—Christians are called to bear our own crosses or submit to Christ in our own unique ways. In which ways will you remain submitted to Christ beyond the Lenten season and the Celebration of the Resurrection?

Let’s not deduce the cross to be a mere form of sym bolism or a once-a-year celebration; instead, we should recognize that we carry Christ and our own crosses with us daily. Choose your crosses wisely and know that God is with you, embracing you and shaping you as you make decisions daily.

next time…

son said. “While these leaders may not listen to our rallying cries, they most definitely stand to feel the impact of our absence.”

and other Black activists, political leaders, and supporters of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are urging Black student-athletes to boycott colleges and universities in states that have promoted or passed anti-DEI policies.

“For Black college athletes, this is the ‘bus boycott’ of our era,” said Johnson. Boycott was a word and action that resonated with Black people seeking significant racial change during the Jim Crow Era of segregation. It was a coordinated and robust level of protest to challenge particular forms of discrimination by societal establishments. To boycott meant withholding a group of people’s business, support, and participation until desired changes were manifested.

While Johnson didn’t mention the historic Montgomery Bus Boycott, he inferred a super movement of change was needed in the form of a boycott of enormous proportions. The Montgomery Bus Boycott was a political and social protest where Black men, women, and children in the southern city stopped using the bus system for any purpose. The boycott lasted from December 5, 1955, to December 20, 1956, bringing Montgomery to its financial knees. It ended with the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that segregation on public buses was unconstitutional.

“In order to prevent our nation from the negative, long-term consequences of dismantling DEI, we must use every tool at our disposal to fight back against these coordinated attacks,” said Johnson, a Detroit native. “And while the politicians spearheading this anti-Black campaign may not respect our community or our nation’s history, the profits that their respective states reap from Black talent is undeniable.”

Johnson has a direct message to legislators, other elected officials, college and university presidents, and board members who have made it their mission to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

“Embracing the ideas of diversity, equity, and inclusion is the best way to combat systemic racism and ensure that America is a country of opportunity for all of us,” Johnson said. “We must not allow dark forces to revert our progress on embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion. The value that Black and other college athletes bring to large universities is unmatched. If these institutions are unable to completely invest in those athletes, it’s time they take their talents elsewhere.”

March Madness: The Stars of Women’s NCAA Basketball Face High Expectations as the Sport Grows

By Nwakerendu Waboso, Brock University, and Taylor McKee, Brock University

Women’s basketball superstars are standing at a crossroads for collegiate basketball, professional women’s sports, and the relationship between race and gender more broadly.

Last year’s NCAA women’s basketball championship between Louisiana State University and the University of Iowa saw controversy arise when LSU’s Angel Reese made a hand gesture that many perceived as rude toward Iowa player Caitlin Clark.

Reese, a Black woman, received immediate misogynistic backlash online for the gesture, despite Clark having made a similar gesture earlier in the game.

The situation placed undue, uninvited stress and attention on both Reese and Clark and evoked the long history of racially coded conflicts across sports. It prompted fans and critics to consider the social roles traditionally given to white and Black athletes and how these persisting expectations continue to inform broader perceptions of individual athletes.

As this year’s NCAA tournament unfolds, it might yet again represent a new high watermark for women’s sport as new standards are set for ratings and even more pressure falls on the game’s superstars.

LSU forward Angel Reese dribbles during a basketball game in the first round of the NCAA tournament on March 22, 2024, in Baton Rouge, La. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)

The rise of women’s NCAA basketball

The increasing interest in collegiate women’s basketball has become impossible to ignore, buoyed in large part by the emergence of stars like Clark, Reese, University of Southern California freshman guard JuJu Watkins, and University of Utah senior forward Alissa Pili.

The 2023 NCAA women’s basketball tournament averaged 6.5 million viewers for the two final four games and 9.9 million for the championship game. By comparison, the 2023 NHL Stanley Cup averaged 2.6 million viewers in the United States, 4.6 million in 2022, and 2.5 million in 2021.

NCAA men’s basketball, in comparison, has experienced a decline over the years because of its relationship to the NBA draft. Beginning in 2006, the NBA mandated players must be at least one-year removed from high school graduation and 19 years old to be eligible for the draft. Prior to 2006, players were eligible to enter the draft directly out of high school.

The ability to enter the NBA at 18 was a privilege only granted after a 1967 Supreme Court decision allowed University of Detroit forward Spencer Haywood to sign an NBA contract despite the league’s requirement that players not be drafted until four years after high school graduation.

As author Chuck Klosterman mentioned in an interview, players used to stay in school for three or four years, allowing audiences to become fans by watching players evolve. Now, the NBA sees players drafted after spending only

Black Women Are Fighting to Forge A Path in the

Cannabis Industry

By Sean Copeland

The legal recreational cannabis industry in Michigan turns five years old this year, and it has evolved quite a bit from where it started. Dispensaries are popping up everywhere. The topic of cannabis is now on the covers of magazines and newspapers and leading the 5 o’clock news. Last year, Metro Times published the “Weed Book,” an all-encompassing herb guide in the Detroit area and where to get it.

Her work to promote inclusivity has drawn the attention of many politicians, most notably Vice President Kamala Harris. Locally in the Detroit area, there are Black female professionals who have been expanding diversity in the cannabis industry through dispensary ownership as well as in public relations that help to promote its benefits and break age-old stigmas.

Making Cannabis Marketable to Women

Needless to say, we’ve come a long way with this concept. Years ago, cannabis enthusiasts could only dream of the progress that society has made in legalizing the drug. Recreational use has skyrocketed as consumers are able to simply purchase products with an I.D. or driver’s license without needing a medical card.

Years ago, medical options were the only ones available at local dispensaries. Sales in Michigan have been so good that the industry reportedly raked in $3 billion in sales in 2023, creating the second-largest U.S. cannabis market after California. Over time, it’s been fascinating to see the growth and change around the plant. What was once often frowned upon because of its illegal status and stigmas surrounding it have now appeared to become a celebrated lifestyle for many? Still, diversity has unsurprisingly been a problem in the industry.

According to Leafly, a leading cannabis journalism website, only 2% of cannabis business owners identify as Black. Black women make up an even smaller percentage. While this has been an issue, there are minority-owned businesses that have pioneered efforts to make the industry more inclusive to its consumers, and Black women are slowly but surely opening doors in the cannabis space.

Wanda James was the first Black woman to own a cannabis dispensary in the U.S. when she opened Apothecary of Colorado in 2009. Today, she continues to focus on social justice and equity within the cannabis industry.

Calyxeum is a Black woman-owned cannabis wholesale and cultivation brand with over ten years of experience. In an industry that is largely dominated by men, the brand is unique in that it markets to the female consumer. It also promotes female growth in the sector by providing that perspective in its products, such as its merch that has messages like “Buy Weed from Black Women” and “Support Women Growers.”

According to their website, the company “seeks to redefine the myths of the cannabis consumer.” The company also rebuilds homes, grows community gardens, supports workforce development programs, and tutors STEM after-school programs. As a brand with a certain story and purpose, Calyxeum knows that it operates in a special yet often undiscovered place within the cannabis industry. They’re also aware that they are driven by the everyday support of those who choose to back their vision.

“What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to community engagement and education. At the heart of our success lies our core values, which emphasize the integral role of community-building and empowerment. We’re not backed by millions of dollars, nor do we fit the stereotypical mold of rappers or athletes. Our supporters are hardworking professionals, and individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities. They

Catch Me If You Can: The World’s Most Traveled Woman is Detroiter Jessica Nabongo

By Sean Copeland CONTRIBUTING WRITER

When we think of female pioneers of color, many names come to mind: Shirley Chisolm, Ida B. Wells, Sojourner Truth, Madame CJ Walker, and Rosa Parks, amongst others. As a community, we are forever indebted to the bravery, strength, and courageous acts of these women as they have changed the way we experience life on an everyday basis.

While there are classic examples of women making their mark in innovations or being the first to obtain certain accomplishments, there are women who are still making history today in the modern era. There are women today who are making history in their respective fields: Beyoncé in music, Ketanji Brown Jackson and Kamala Harris in politics and government, Simone Biles

in sports, and there are many more examples.

Additionally, social media has completely revolutionized the way we view, experience, and appreciate life. It has taught us that careers, lifestyles, hobbies, and interests can be valuable and memorable in so many ways. In fact, social media has given birth to so many careers, often being the catalyst for success for many. In the travel sphere, there are many citizens who scroll countless hours on Instagram and TikTok with hopes of traveling to the countries they see in their timelines. One Black woman decided to take on the daunting task of traveling to every country in the world, and she accomplished it.

Catch Me If You Can

In 2019, Jessica Nabongo became the first Black woman to visit every United Nations-recognized country

in the world: an accomplishment that saw her make a journey to a total of 195 countries. Nabongo is a travel blogger, speaker, writer, author, and social media influencer.

Upon visiting her Instagram account at @jessicanabongo, within a few minutes, you will develop a serious case of wanderlust by looking at her beautifully curated feed. And, if she has it her way, that’s exactly what she wants you to feel. Nabongo, who has been traveling for all her life, has a fearless spirit that transcends to others in conversation when she speaks. As an author, Nabongo discusses her own experiences as well as advises others on how to find joy in travel with her book

Catch Me If You Can.

In 2022, she embarked on an extensive tour to sup-

See JESSICA NABONGO Page B-2

Cannabis Industry

From page B-1

seek solace, relaxation, and often relief from pain in our products,” says Rebecca Collett, CEO of Calyxeum.

She elaborates that the company wasn’t started from a source of inherited wealth. It was born out of a genuine love and passion for cannabis and the desire to make a difference. As many people can attest, cannabis has healing properties. It has been useful for pain management, neurological disorders, insomnia, and more. Certain studies have also shown that the drug can treat rheumatic conditions, mental and behavioral health issues, and even cancer.

Black female ownership is growing slowly but surely in the industry, and Calyxeum is a contributing factor. While the company has made strides in diversity, it has seen its share of issues from its inception. When opening, Colett says she faced issues with investment capital and funding.

“The landscape of black female ownership spans various industries, yet the cannabis sector remains a challenging frontier.”

According to JP Morgan Chase, Black women represent the fastest-growing demographic of entrepreneurs in the U.S. However, they encounter significant financial hurdles, often resorting to self-funding due to limited access to capital. Addressing this disparity requires a concerted effort from the finance community to acknowledge and rectify existing biases in investment evaluation, Colett noted. Many institutions have been hesitant to engage with cannabis users and operators and often withhold crucial support for those who need it.

Stigma has been and continues to be one of the prevalent reasons why many people have yet to embrace cannabis. Fear, lack of awareness and information, and its criminalized past have made many people shy away from using the drug for its benefits. It

also may be a reason that complicates funding and startup capital.

“The importance of self-education cannot be overstated; an abundance of information is readily available at our fingertips through the internet. While we refrain from making medical claims, it’s undeniable that this plant has brought relief and enhanced the quality of life for many facing health challenges, including our loved ones.

“Contrary to misconceptions, cannabis isn’t a gateway to harmful substances; rather, it opens doors to increased appetite, pain relief, relaxation, and enhanced creativity. Within a licensed and regulated cannabis industry, consumers have access to rigorously tested and safe products, minimizing risks and ensuring quality,” Collett shares.

She also adds that it’s important to debunk the stigma of what a cannabis user looks like as there is a wide spectrum of users and their lifestyles, especially in today’s times.

Representing Cannabis in Public Relations

Brittni “Bee” Brown is the founder and CEO of The Bee Agency in Royal Oak. As one of the top PR professionals in the Detroit area, she specializes in personal branding, lifestyle, fashion, and beauty PR. In the past, Brown has represented cannabis brands Pleasantries and Quality Roots and has expertise in this ever-growing field. When working with cannabis brands, she explained her approach to getting brands noticed by the public and helping to drive business and sales.

“The approach to promoting a cannabis brand involves a combination of traditional public relations strategies, education, and understanding all compliance with specific regulations. Our goal was humanizing those brands we worked with in the form of storytelling and internal team highlighting. We also aimed at the community angle to focus on impact. Our agency did not hold a

March Madness

From page B-1

months on college campuses, which has led to an erosion of interest in men’s collegiate basketball.

It is possible this sense of disconnection has drawn larger audiences to the women’s collegiate game, where fans are able to develop more long-lasting relationships with players and witness intense rivalries between teams due to greater continuity of talent.

The Changing faces of Women’s basketball

Described as a “transformational talent,” “the supernova driving women’s basketball to new heights,” and inspiring what is known as the “Caitlin Clark Effect,” Clark is now a household name across North America.

Her influence is a strong, positive experience that disrupts traditional gender marginalization and stereotypes within collegiate sports. Clark’s accomplishments directly challenge the stereotype that female athletes are less athletic than male athletes.

This is a harmful and historical trope for a host of reasons, one of which is that it subjugates women as inferior athletes and undermines efforts to break down the patriarchal barriers that have traditionally disenfranchised female athletics as a whole.

Within her role as a student-athlete ambassador, Clark is also able to disrupt traditional views around femininity in sports. Her identity as a white woman and her wealth also matter tremendously.

Because whiteness is still privileged and treated as the normative identity in collegiate athletics across America, Clark is well-positioned to disrupt traditional ideas around femininity in a way that a non-White athlete cannot.

Wealth in women’s sports

The lucrative landscape surrounding NIL (name, image, likeness) regulations means the stars of NCAA women’s basketball stand to earn far more than previous generations of women’s players. NIL rules allow players to monetize their name, image, and likeness through sponsorships and other activities.

Clark has declared for the WNBA’s 2024 season, where she is highly touted to be the number one overall draft pick. It is reported that Clark’s 11 NIL contracts are worth a combined US$3 million — a number that stands in stark contrast to the usual $100,000 rookie salary of top WNBA first round picks.

But this opportunity has the potential to create a great deal more pressure for those carrying the banner for women’s basketball. It’s new and uncharted territory for female collegiate athletes and foreshadows possible tensions for athletes who eventually transition to professional basketball.

The younger generation of stars may well enter into the WNBA with more wealth amassed over their collegiate careers than some long-standing WNBA players have ever made.

Clark, Reese and a new generation of collegiate superstars are now not only tasked with navigating their place in an inequitable sporting marketplace, but are also pioneers of a new age of wealth in women’s sport.

Heavy is the head that wears the crown, so the saying goes, and Clark appears to bear that weight deftly. However, as a new generation of players transitions into the professional game from a collegiate game they’ve helped supercharge, it’s important to consider how much weight is reasonable for any athlete to bear, no matter how battle-tested and celebrated the player.

Nwakerendu Waboso, PhD Candidate, Child and Youth Studies, Brock University, and Taylor McKee, Assistant Professor, Sport Management, Brock University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

deliverable to equal sales, but more so brand awareness,” Brown explained.

Given the stigmas of cannabis, it can often be a challenge to get many people to understand the benefits, as many minds have been shaped by the illegalization of the drug for many years. Fear, ignorance, and misinformation often inform many citizens’ lack of use. To combat these narratives, Brown found herself tackling the challenge.

“Representing a cannabis brand can indeed be challenging due to historical stigmas associated with the drug. Overcoming these stigmas may involve strategies such as educating the public about the medicinal benefits, even media/press outlets, emphasizing responsible use, and highlighting the legal and regulatory compliance of the brand and the storytelling factor,” she explains. While diversity has been and continues to remain a challenge in cannabis, there is projected growth. Brown foresees minorities finding success in the cannabis industry.

“The success of minority cannabis brands in Michigan, as in any industry, depends on various factors such as market trends, regulatory environment, and the business strategies employed. If there are supportive policies and initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion in the cannabis industry, it could contribute to the success of minority-owned businesses.

“Local community engagement and partnerships may also play a crucial role in building brand awareness and customer loyalty. Keep in mind that the cannabis industry is dynamic and subject to changes in regulations, public perception, and market dynamics. It’s essential for businesses to adapt to these changes and stay informed to navigate the evolving landscape successfully,” Brown explains.

Finding a Solution

Finding a solution to the diversity problem in the cannabis industry and encouraging Black female ownership isn’t going to

Jessica Nabongo

From page B-1

port the book, inspiring others to live a life filled with memorable excursions. As a youth, she started traveling with her parents – visiting various countries, making memories, and planting an indelible desire for world travel.

By the time she was a student at Renaissance High School in Detroit, she had already been to seven countries and one territory. Over time, Nabongo has developed a love for the many countries that she has visited and can’t necessarily pick a favorite country or destination. Making connections with the people she encounters is what makes her feel at home.

“I’ve lived in five countries, four outside of the U.S. I’ve been to 53 countries more than once. I’m someone who can go somewhere and fall into place very quickly,” she said.

“For me, it’s the people and how they’ve received me. I do a good job of making friends. I travel solo a lot; you really get time to spend with local people in a way that you don’t when you travel with other people.”

After making her historical accomplishment of traveling to every world country, Nabongo has since come back to Detroit. She first bought a place in Detroit in 2017. Nowadays, she isn’t as much of a nomad and has been back in the city full-time since December 2023. While Nabongo has had much success in travel, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. She has dual citizenship between the U.S. and Uganda and has faced some questions about the validity of her identity.

“I would say for the most part, the things that I dealt with were at border control. Typically, I wear my head shaved and look very African, if I use my U.S. passport, they’ll think it’s fake. If I use my Ugandan passport, they’ll think I’m overstaying my visa,” she said. “For the most part, I’ve never really experienced things that would

be overnight, but there are ways to foster growth and change over time. For Colett, the key is collaboration.

“Collaboration is key to uncovering new opportunities; it’s time to dismantle the gatekeeper mentality. Together, we’re stronger. The Detroit Cannabis Project – our social equity business incubator – serves as a vital platform for discovering these very opportunities. In an industry as multifaceted as cannabis, there’s a demand for a diverse array of professionals—many of whom may not directly interact with the plant or require licensing,” she shares.

In an article shared earlier this month for International Women’s Day on March 8, Forbes suggests certain steps to take to foster diversity and inclusion in the industry. Some of the tips include building inclusion into company culture, introducing basic DEI practices, investing in human resources, and supporting inclusive businesses. While the brands that Brown worked with weren’t minority-owned, she still shared some insight on how minority ownership can increase in cannabis.

“The success of minority cannabis brands in Michigan, as in any industry, depends on various factors such as market trends, regulatory environment, and the business strategies employed. If there are supportive policies and initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion in the cannabis industry, it could contribute to the success of minority-owned businesses. Local community engagement and partnerships may also play a crucial role in building brand awareness and customer loyalty,” Brown foresees.

While diversity will no doubt be an ongoing issue in cannabis, it takes professionals like the owners of Calyxeum and The Bee Agency to shift the paradigm of what is considered normal. We salute these Black women professionals on the progress they are making to represent diversity and inclusion in an ever-evolving space and for doing it well.

hinder my travel. I hope that people of color can realize that it’s our world to travel and explore the world the way everyone else does without fear.”

A Complicated History

Nabongo’s accomplishments are especially notable considering the historic travel limitations African Americans have had because of systemic racism and segregation. Due to these practices, some in the Black community haven’t traveled as well as other groups.

Today, lingering concerns such as unemployment, lack of information and resources, and more contribute to many not being able to travel as freely.

The Negro Motorist Green Book, a travel guidebook for Black travelers, was published to help guide motorists to safe spaces during the Jim Crow era. It was published annually from 1936 to 1966 by Victor Green and inspired the film Green Book, which starred Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortenson. Additionally, Green went on to open a travel agency.

While times have certainly changed, and Black travelers can go pretty much anywhere, there are still concerns that permeate throughout the Black community even today. Perhaps one of the lingering concerns, even in modern times, is a dangerous one: fear. Nabongo advises that it’s time to evolve when considering international travel.

“With Black people, we have to get out of our own way. Being Black in America, this country thrives off of our fear. Our fear of racism, we have to let that go. The rest of the world isn’t America and you won’t be treated the same way as here. We have to focus on getting out of our own way. Go do the thing you want to do. Stop asking for permission”, she says.

Fear continues to hinder many from finding and discovering new terrain, often limiting one to their usual surroundings. There are many benefits to travel and studies have shown that it can improve mental health, social empathy, and can even provide access

to career advancement. There’s a certain benefit that comes with exploring new areas in that you can often discover and strengthen inward qualities like resilience and problem solving.

Travel boosts creativity, often allowing one to be inspired and moved by different surroundings that can translate into everyday life. Fear is an emotion that seems to strike a chord with Nabongo. It is one that she encourages people to get outside of their comfort zone. Her safety tips include the importance of embracing a positive attitude. “It may sound crazy but one of the biggest things is positive energy. When you go and you have this negative attitude, you’re magnetizing this energy toward you,” she advises.

For those who may be interested in finding out more information on how to travel, there are many resources for minority travelers. There are travel groups and websites like Green Book Global, born in a similar concept to the The Negro Motorist Green Book. There are even websites like Black Travel Alliance that work to support Black travel professionals with knowledge, training, and vast resources. As for Nabongo, she recommends reading and taking advantage of social media.

“Read my book, Catch Me If You Can. Follow your favorite travel blogger. There are so many resources all around you. Social media will probably make people feel the most comfortable as you can see someone who looks like you and is doing what you want to do.”

As for what’s next for Nabongo, she doesn’t really have an answer. While she is asked the question often, she says that she is simply working to live a life that brings her happiness and joy. However, she has plans to work on her next book and finish traveling to every U.S. state. Most importantly, spending time with friends and family is on her bucket list. “I want to feel good and enjoy my life. I want people to focus on what matters and not accolades.”

TO: ALL ELIGIBLE DISABLED VOTERS

Federal Public Law 98-435 requires that polling places be accessible to disabled voters.

If a polling location is not disabled accessible, this law allows the assignment of an alternate polling place. However, several polling places which were previously inaccessible are now accessible to disabled voters.

Disabled voters are entitled to vote at the polls within the precinct where possible. Pollworkers are obligated to provide whatever assistance is needed to facilitate the voting process.

Disabled voters with an inaccessible polling place are eligible to vote without notice at the:

Department of Elections 2978 W. Grand Blvd. Detroit, MI 48202

until the close of voting at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

If additional information is needed, or to confirm disabled accessibility, please contact the Department of Elections office at (313) 876-0190.

Janice M. Winfrey City Clerk & Chairperson Detroit Election Commission

4 cols x 6 inches

Tigers on the Prowl: Celebrating Opening Day in Detroit

By Miss AJ Williams

Baseball is back in the Motor City, and with it comes the electrifying energy of Detroit Tigers Opening Day! This isn’t just a game; it’s a deeply ingrained tradition, a vibrant community celebration, and the official kickoff to spring. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, here’s how Detroit ushers in a new season at Comerica Park: Tailgating Takes Center Stage: The festivities begin long before the first pitch. Head to Grand Circus Park for a free pre-game party. Think cornhole tournaments, live music, and appearances by the Tigers’ mascots. Restaurants and bars around the stadium set up their own tailgate scenes, offering food trucks, drinks, and a chance to mingle with fellow fans.

Wearing Your Colors Proudly: Forget black-tie; Opening Day is a fashion show of orange and navy. Gear up in your favorite Tigers jersey, hat, or face paint. Don’t be surprised to see families decked out in matching attire, creating a sea of Tigers pride. Comerica Park Comes Alive: Arriving early is key to soaking up the electric atmosphere. Gates open early, with special giveaways, live music, and concession stand deals. As players are announced, the crowd erupts in cheers, a wave of orange towels creating a breathtaking display of unity. Carrying on Time-Honored Traditions: Opening Day is a day to honor Tigers’ history. Look out for alumni appearances, special tributes to legendary players, and maybe even a glimpse of the iconic Tiger Head rising from center field. One heartwarming tradition involves fans holding up signs showcasing their Opening Day attendance streaks, a testament to the team’s enduring legacy.

Beyond the Ballpark: The celebration spills out from Comerica Park. Restaurants and bars offer Opening Day specials, with many featuring Tigers-themed dishes and drinks. Local businesses often decorate their storefronts in orange and navy, further amplifying the festive spirit. One of the not-so-secret celebration will be a pop-up by Elevated Ventures Detroit with Opening Day PARK AVE. BAR HOP! District Seventy8 will be starting at 10AM! And right down the street, they will have a POP-UP PARTY at the Old Centaur starting at 9AM!!!

A City United by Baseball: Opening Day transcends the game itself. It’s a chance for Detroiters to come together, celebrate their city, and share their love for the Tigers. It’s a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the shared hope for a winning season.

So, whether you’re a lifelong Tigers fan or simply looking to experience a slice of Detroit culture, Opening Day is an event not to be missed. Grab your glove, dust off your jersey, and get ready to roar with the Motor City!

Navigating Mercury Retrograde in Aries

By Miss AJ Williams

Brace yourselves, astrology enthusiasts! The first Mercury retrograde of 2024 is upon us, landing with a fiery bang in the bold sign of Aries from April 1st to 25th (with some lingering effects possible until mid-May). While every Mercury retrograde can bring miscommunication and tech troubles, this fiery combination packs an extra punch. Here’s how to navigate this cosmic detour with minimal mayhem: Communication Chaos: Expect a breakdown in communication, Aries’ fiery nature amplifying misunderstandings. Salty emails, impulsive

texts, and misinterpreted phone calls are all on the table. Think before you speak (or type!), and take a beat to double-check your messages before hitting send.

Techie Tantrums: Get ready for some serious tech trouble. Important documents might vanish from your computer, your phone might decide to take a nap just as you need it most, and online orders could go astray. Back up your data religiously, be patient with electronics, and maybe hold off on any major online purchases. Choose Your Words Wisely: Aries’ directness can turn blunt during a ret-

rograde. While honesty is usually a virtue, it’s crucial to filter your words now. Think twice before launching into an Aries-style tirade, and focus on diplomacy over bluntness.

Revisit, Reflect, Relaunch: Don’t

Embrace the Retrograde Reset: While it can be disruptive, a Mercury retrograde can also be a time for positive change. Use this period to declutter your physical and digital space, clear out stagnant energy, and revisit those long-forgotten goals.

Remember, Mercury retrograde is temporary. By staying calm, communicating clearly, and embracing the opportunity for reflection, you can emerge from this fiery phase unscathed, ready to chase your goals with renewed focus.

By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER

The Michigan Senate committee recently took a pivotal step towards modernizing the state’s approach to surrogacy by approving the Fertility Health Care Act, a comprehensive package of nine bills aimed at revamping Michigan’s surrogacy legislation. The Act, receiving backing from notable figures including Governor Gretchen Whitmer, was deliberated by the Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee, which had previously heard testimonies on the matter. This legislative effort seeks to dismantle existing barriers to surrogacy within the state, thereby providing Michigan families with new avenues to parenthood while also instituting robust protections for surrogates, intended parents, and children born through surrogacy arrangements.

Central to the legislative package is HB 5207, spearheaded by State Representative Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills), which proposes the establishment of the Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act. This Act aims to lay down a comprehensive framework for surrogacy contracts, mandating explicit consent from both surrogates and intending parents, thereby setting a precedent for ethical and legally sound surrogacy practices. Notably, Michigan is currently the only state that criminalizes surrogacy contracts, a stance that this legislation seeks to overturn.

To ensure a responsible and ethical surrogacy process, the proposed bill outlines specific criteria for surrogate eligibility. These include being at least 21 years old, having previously given birth, undergoing thorough medical and psychological assessments, and securing independent legal representation funded by the intended parents. This legal counsel is crucial throughout the drafting and execution of the surrogacy contract, safeguarding the surrogate’s interests and rights.

One must ponder why politics frequently intervenes in matters as intimate as a woman’s reproductive choices, ranging from landmark decisions like Roe v. Wade to the complexities surrounding infertility treatments and personal decisions like tubal ligation. The intersection of legislative action and women’s reproductive health often raises significant questions about autonomy and the role of governmental regulation in deeply personal health decisions.

The journey to motherhood through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is a deeply personal one, yet for Black women, it’s entangled with systemic hurdles that go beyond the medical. The phrase ‘reproducing while Black’ encapsulates more than a process—it’s a battle against a legacy of obstetric racism, where the pursuit of fertility treatments is shadowed by the specter of anti-Black racism. This dimension of their struggle is often invisible in the broader narrative, which tends to focus on access and affordability, leaving the racial prejudice encountered in fertility clinics and the emotional toll it takes on Black

Detroit

women largely unspoken.

Amidst this landscape, there’s a beacon of progress and hope. Shady Grove Fertility, a leading fertility center, has reported a significant uptick in Black women seeking fertility treatments, with their numbers growing 50% faster than the overall treatment rates this year. Particularly in the realm of in-vitro fertilization (IVF)—a procedure brought into the spotlight by Michelle Obama in her memoir “Becoming”—there’s been an 18% increase in Black women undergoing IVF at Shady Grove, compared to a 12% increase among all women. This data, shared by Dr. Desiree McCarthy-Keith of Shady Grove’s Atlanta region, not only signifies a shift in awareness and utilization of ART by Black women but also sheds light on a growing determination to overcome barriers and fulfill dreams of motherhood.

Yet, this positive shift doesn’t erase the broader challenges that persist. Discussions around Black women and ART often miss the mark, focusing narrowly on financial and logistical barriers and neglecting the deeper, more insidious racial biases that permeate reproductive healthcare. The reality is more complex, woven with threads of systemic racism that affect everything from patient care to treatment success rates. The lack of comprehensive exploration and understanding in academic and medical circles only serves to perpetuate these challenges, leaving many Black women to navigate this daunting path with limited support and recognition of their unique struggles.

It’s time for a change. The rising numbers of Black women engaging with fertility services, as seen at Shady Grove Fertility, should be more than a statistic— it should be a wake-up call. It’s a call for healthcare providers, policymakers, and society to listen, learn, and act to dismantle the barriers of racial bias in reproductive healthcare. It’s about creat-

ing a world where the journey to motherhood for Black women is met with empathy, support, and justice, ensuring that their dreams of family aren’t just possible but embraced and nurtured.

The reality of infertility affects countless women, and legislative reforms addressing these issues are more pertinent than ever. Surrogacy, for instance, offers a glimmer of hope for many who wish to start families but are hindered by medical conditions that make pregnancy unfeasible, including those recovering from cancer treatments. Such reforms not only provide legal clarity and support for these women but also highlight the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights and the need for compassionate, informed legislation that respects and protects women’s health and choices.

“Decisions about if, when, and how to have a child are deeply personal. Politicians should not be dictating the terms of these private decisions that should be left to a family, their doctor, and those they love and trust,” said Governor Whitmer in a statement. “The Michigan Family Protection

Act makes several commonsense, long overdue changes to remove criminal prohibitions on surrogacy, protect families formed by IVF, and ensure LGBTQ+ parents are treated equally. These changes will support parents in Michigan and guarantee that every child is treated equally and protected by the law, no matter how their parent chose to start a family.”

Polly Crozier, the director of family advocacy with the GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), commended the legislative efforts, highlighting the meticulous consideration behind them. She noted, “The Uniform Parent Act was thoughtfully drafted by a non-partisan commission with observers and stakeholders including an expert on medical ethics. The UPA has guided parentage law in the United States for over 50 years,” underscoring the Act’s long-standing influence and foundational principles in shaping family law. Crozier further elaborated on the Act’s core objectives, stating, “It is child-centered and guided by two basic principles. One, to eliminate discrimination against children based on the circumstances of their birth, includ-

ing through assisted reproduction and surrogacy. And two, to protect children’s relationships with the people who they know and love and have been acting as their parents.”

Furthermore, the legislative package aims to amend various aspects of Michigan law to better accommodate the complexities of surrogacy. This includes ensuring that children born through surrogacy have clear rights regarding inheritance and access to their birth certificates. The need for such legislation is underscored by the reality that many individuals opt for surrogacy due to medical impediments, such as infertility issues stemming from cancer treatments, which prevent them from carrying a pregnancy to term.

The bills, having already passed the Michigan House along strict party lines, with unanimous opposition from Republican members, highlight the contentious nature of surrogacy legislation. This partisan divide reflects broader national debates on reproductive rights and technologies, further intensified by a recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that recognized embryos as legal persons, thereby halting IVF procedures in the state and igniting fears of legislative repercussions across the United States.

“While other states make it harder for you to start a family, we are making it easier in Michigan by expanding options for pregnancy, improving maternal and reproductive health care, and investing in the kitchen-table issues that lower the cost of raising a child, such as free pre-K and free school breakfast and lunch,” said Whitmer. “I look forward to reviewing and then signing the Michigan Family Protection Act when it reaches my desk. I will continue working closely with my partners in the Michigan Legislature to make our state the best place to start, raise, and grow your family.”

The Prayer Mausoleum boasts 294 exterior crypts, 282 interior crypts, and 48 niches, creating a tranquil haven for reflection

NOTICE OF ELECTION – SPECIAL GENERAL ELECTION

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024 POLLS WILL BE OPEN FROM 7:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M. TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF DETROIT, COUNTY OF WAYNE, STATE OF MICHIGAN

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL GENERAL ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN DETROIT, MICHIGAN ON TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024. THE POLLS WILL BE OPEN FROM 7:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M. AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

For the purposes of voting for the following offices:

For the purposes of voting for the following offices:

If you have any questions regarding your polling location on Election Day, please contact the Detroit Department of Elections at (313) 876-0190.

• Representative in State Legislature District 13

If you have any questions regarding your polling location on Election Day, please contact the Detroit Department of Elections at (313) 876-0190.

MICHIGAN LAW MANDATES ALL VOTERS TO PRESENT VALID PHOTO ID AT THE POLLS OR COMPLETE AN AFFIDAVIT OF VOTER NOT IN POSSESSION OF PICTURE IDENTIFICATION. Acceptable forms of photo IDs: Michigan Driver’s License or a Michigan Personal ID; Driver’s License or Personal ID by another state; Federal or State Government photo ID; U.S. Passport; Military ID with photo; current Student ID with photo or Tribal ID with photo.

Absentee ballots are available for all elections. Registered voters may obtain a ballot at the office of the Detroit Department of Elections or the office of the Detroit City Clerk. Dropboxes are available at both locations. Department of Elections City Clerk’s Office (Coleman A. Young Municipal Ctr.) 2978 W. Grand Blvd. 2 Woodward Ave., Ste. 200 Detroit, MI 48202 Detroit, MI 48226

HOURS OF OPERATION:

• Regular business hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Department of Elections) Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (City Clerk’s Office)

• Saturday, April 13th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 14th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Department of Elections)

• Saturday, April 13th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 14th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (City Clerk’s Office)

• Monday, April 15th - voting ceases at all locations at 4:00 p.m.

• Election Day, Tuesday, April 16th from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Voters may also submit their ballots by dropping it into any of our dropboxes (24 hours, 7 days a week) listed below.

All Locations Are Dropbox Only