Authentically Detroit: Recent Episodes
Donna & Orlando
Authentically Detroit is hosted by Donna Givens and Orlando Bailey and is powered by Eastside Community Network, a 35-year-old not-for-profit community development organization that serves the Lower Eastside of the city. We are inviting you into our space of constant intergenerational discussion, male and female perspective and a critical take on the happenings in the city of Detroit. Our shows will be thematic in that each show will take a comprehensive look at things like housing in Detroit, spatial racism, economic development, neighborhood planning, self-care, community trauma and more. Not only will we tackle these topics head on, we’ll also bring in expert guests to help us out! We don’t want to have these conversations in a vacuum either so we are encouraging you to participate. Find us on Instagram and Facebook @ Authentically Detroit Podcast and be a part of the conversation!
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with the State Director of the Working Families Party to discuss the results of Michigan’s 2026 primary election.
Michigan’s 2026 primary election gained significant national attention as Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens faced off in a race that some said would determine the future of the democratic party.
The Working Families Party believes that future includes making our nation work for the many, not the few. State by state they’re building a multiracial party of working class people to transform our country.
This year, in Michigan’s election, they endorsed several candidates including several who have either appeared on Authentically Detroit plus several other candidates running for office across the state.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
BATTLE FOR THE SOUL OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY: VOTERS SOUND OFF
BLACK VOTERS SHAPED THE DISCOURSE IN MICHIGAN U.S. SENATE PRIMARY
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In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Jai Smith, an official Influencer for Detroit Public Schools Community District to discuss a youth perspective on politics ahead of the 2026 Michigan Primary Election.
If you’re looking to learn more about candidates in each race check out our forum, held in partnership with SEIU Michigan, which took place on July 18th, ahead of the 2026 Michigan U.S. House, State House, and State Senate elections.
At the forum, residents had the chance to learn where candidates stand on community priorities, local policy, and issues shaping Detroit’s Eastside.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit and watch the forum replay, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
WAYNE COUNTY VOTERS WILL SHAPE THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY'S FUTURE
WHITMER ENDORSES STEVENS IN U.S. SENATE RACE
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In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down to discuss what went down at the 2026 Eastside Candidate Forum.
The Eastside Candidate Forum, held in partnership with SEIU Michigan, took place on July 18th, ahead of the 2026 Michigan U.S. House, State House, and State Senate elections.
At the forum, residents had the chance to learn where candidates stand on community priorities, local policy, and issues shaping Detroit’s Eastside.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit and watch the replay, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
NO SHRI FOR ME: MCKINNEY BRINGS PROGRESSIVE CONGRESSIONAL HOPEFULS
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In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Organizer and Labor Policy Expert, Jasmine Kaltenbach to discuss the upcoming 2026 Eastside Candidate Forum.
The Eastside Candidate Forum , held in partnership with SEIU Michigan, takes place on July 18th, ahead of the 2026 Michigan U.S. House, State House, and State Senate elections.
At the forum, residents will have the chance to learn where candidates stand on community priorities, local policy, and issues shaping Detroit’s Eastside.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit and register for the forum, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
HOW THE OBAMAS ARE MOTIVATING BLACK VOTERS IN MICHIGAN'S U.S. SENATE RACE
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In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with the City Council Person for District 4, Latisha Johnson Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Wayne State Dr. William Shuster, and Environmental Justice Director at Eastside Community Network, Dr. Marie Garcia to discuss what’s happening with the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) and the canals in the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
ABDUL EL-SAYED LAUNCHES NEW AD TARGETING BLACK VOTERS AFTER MALLORY MCMORROW DROPS BID FOR SENATE
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In the first episode of Have You Heard?, Arlyssa Heard sits down with father, mentor, coach, author, and youth advocate Jonathan Shropshire to discuss the rise in fighting, bullying, and violence in schools.
Together, they explore how social media conflicts spill into classrooms, what's driving these behaviors, and what parents, schools, and communities can do to better support our children.
Subscribe to Have You Heard? on all platforms!
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In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Sheba Rogers, Liz Kennedy, Ali Lakhani and Valerie Kelly-Bonner to discuss a series of mental health roundtable discussions Detroit Justice, Henry Ford Health’s Trauma Recovery Center, and Strategies to Overcome Obstacles and Avoid Recidivism (SOOAR) have hosted in the city.
Trauma is often thought of as an injury resulting from a motor vehicle crash or gunshot wound. However, trauma can be any event resulting in physical, emotional, or life-threatening harm that has lasting adverse effects on an individual. The Trauma Recovery Center (TRC) is working to promote resiliency and holistic recovery for survivors following a crime. Their mission is to maximize the recovery of traumatically injured patients, families and communities through support, mental health services, education and access to resources.
Since its founding in 2005, SOOAR has been committed to enhancing the lives of those in need throughout the Metro Detroit area. They measure success not just through data, but through the stories, feedback, and visible improvements in community well-being. SOOAR uses a holistic approach—offering education, support, and engagement—to promote healthier behaviors, reduce harms, and build stronger, resilient communities.
The Detroit Justice Center (DJC) is a non-profit law firm and advocacy organization working to create just cities where every life is valued and supported with dignity and care. They are a national organization rooted in Detroit—a city emblematic of both the harms of racial capitalism and the resilience of community-led solutions. They engage in legal, policy, and narrative work to inspire the work of building just cities across the nation.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
BENSON BRINGS GOVERNOR CAMPAIGN ACROSS MICHIGAN
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In this episode, Donna and Sam ran down some of the hottest political topics across the city including some of the upcoming primary elections. They also sat down the Jessica Kwalli, the owner of Jessica Blair Beauty.
Jessica Kwalli is no stranger to identifying and servicing the needs of others which is why she is the Founder & CEO of Black Diamond Beauty Supply Co. LLC. As a native Detroiter, she was always at the epicenter of beauty and fashion. Growing up in the inner city made her realize there was a lack of representation and ownership in the hair care industry reflecting its largest consumers––African Americans. After repeated incidents of poor customer service and a lack of knowledge in Black hair at local beauty supply businesses, Kwalli made it her mission to create a hair care disruptor by the people and for the people.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
STATE SENATE CANDIDATES AIYASH, ONWENU CLASH AT DETROIT FORUM
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In this episode, Donna and Sam ran down some of the hottest political topics across the city including Mike Duggan’s exit from the governor’s race, Detroit’s census case, UAW endorsements, money out of politics, and more!
They also discuss Juneteenth and the importance of telling the story of Black people’s freedom. The word "Juneteenth" bleeds "June" and "nineteenth," and the day is the oldest known celebration of the end of slavery in the United States. It became a federal holiday in 2021.
Juneteenth marks the arrival of Union troops in Galveston, Texas. Many enslaved people already knew about the Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. What they lacked was the power to make freedom real. Union troops enforced emancipation and helped transform freedom from a proclamation into a reality.
Freedom on paper and freedom in practice were not always the same thing. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom delayed is freedom denied — and freedom enforced changes lives.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
SHEFFIELD BACKS BENSON IN MICHIGAN GOVERNOR'S RACE
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In this episode, Donna and Sam welcomed director and the founder of Plowshares Theatre Gary Anderson plus playwright Cándido Tirado to discuss the world premiere of “Roberto Clemente: A Diamond Within,” an original play written by Tirado.
“Roberto Clemente: A Diamond Within” dramatizes the life of baseball great Roberto Clemente, one of the few Latin athletes who recognized his African ancestry. From his origins in Puerto Rico to his lengthy professional career with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Clemente advocated for the civil rights of Black and Latino individuals both in and outside of baseball.
They also took some time to discuss data centers and their potential impact on the community following Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s controversial appearance at OpenAI’s data center groundbreaking in Saline and a proposed data center on Detroit’s east side.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
WOMEN ARE DYING AT MICHIGAN’S ONLY FEMALE PRISON, AND LAWMAKERS ARE DEMANDING CHANGES
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In this episode, Donna and Sam welcomed the latest member of the Authentically Detroit Podcast Network, Kamaria Gray, to discuss her newly released podcast “Roots & Wonder.”
Roots & Wonder Podcast is a storytime space where little ones are invited to slow down, listen closely, and remember.Each episode retells beloved African folktales carried across generations through voice, rhythm, and imagination.
They also took some time to break down what’s happening with the contaminated demolition dirt in the city, which some believe led to the conclusion of Mike Duggan’s Gubenatorial campaign.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
MONEY OUT OF POLITICS BALLOT INITIATIVE TURNS IN 561K SIGNATURES
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In this special live episode, Donna and Sam sat down with the producer of Authentically Detroit, Sarah Johnson and Jerjuan Howard, the owner of the newly opened Howard Family Bookstore for a powerful evening rooted in storytelling, reflection, and community.
The discussion surrounded the creation of Divining Freedom, a novel written by Donna. This multigenerational story explores the legacy of the Great Migration, the building of Black institutions, and the women who carry communities forward when systems failed them.
They also spoke with JerJuan about his writing journey, and what it means to create and share Black literature within Black-owned spaces. The conversation serves as a reminder that storytelling is not only an art form, but a way of preserving memory, challenging systems, and imagining new possibilities for our communities
To purchase copies of Divining Freedom, click here.
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In this special live episode, Donna and Orlando reunite for a book talk at the Charles H. Wright Museum in collaboration with Next Chapter Books.
This compelling book talk featured two exceptional Detroit authors: Aaron Robertson, author of The Black Utopians, and Michelle Adams, author of The Containment. Together, they explored the enduring relevance of Black Utopia, freedom, and justice in a timely conversation about history, place, and the futures we imagine.
To purchase copies of The Black Utopians and/or The Containment, click here.
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In this episode, Donna and Sam welcomed Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Empowerment Plan, Veronika Scott, plus Chief Executive Officer of COTS Detroit, Cheryl P. Johnson, to discuss their 16-year partnership - centering a shared mission of providing emergency help for people experiencing homelessness and providing pathways out of generational poverty.
The Coalition On Temporary Shelter’s (COTS) dedication to the needs of homeless men, women, and children grew out of a meeting in 1981 between a group of church leaders and human service providers in downtown Detroit. Officially formed in 1982, they have a mission to address Detroit’s homelessness crisis by providing shelter and essential services that help participants achieve self-sufficiency.
On March 17th, Empowerment Plan - a Detroit-based, workforce development organization that produces sleeping bag coats for people experiencing homelessness - distributed its milestone 100,000th coat to COTS Detroit, its longest-running partner.
Started by Veronika Scott in 2015, The Empowerment Plan creates significant economic impact by serving as a stepping stone out of poverty into a state of stability. The core of their work stems from an intensive 2-year employment model focused on providing job readiness training and support services to their workforce.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
THIS WEEK IN THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE:
SUPREME COURT GUTTING OF VOTING RIGHTS ACT STRIPS BLACK POLITICAL POWER, EXPERTS SAY
BERNIE SANDERS DRAWS HUNDREDS IN DETROIT AS PROGRESSIVES PICK BETWEEN EL-SAYED, MCMORROW
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In this episode, Donna and Sam introduce the latest segment on Authentically Detroit, What’s Happening at ECN featuring Outreach Manager for the Housing & Economic Department at Eastside Community Network, Kevin Ashwood.
Kevin leads resident engagement, community outreach, and program education efforts centered on housing stability, wealth building, and neighborhood empowerment across Detroit’s Eastside.
They also introduce the latest addition to the Authentically Detroit Podcast Network, 482Forward Education Organizer, Arlyssa Heard.
Arlyssa is taking 482Forward’s mission and turning it into a podcast! Have You Heard? Is a podcast dedicated to addressing school reform from all angles. Whether it be students, teachers, parents, or administrators - Arlyssa wants to talk to them all and get to the bottom of one question - how can we produce better outcomes for our students?
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
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In this episode, Donna and Sam recap some of the top headlines from the weekend’s Michigan Democratic Party Convention!
Many celebrated over the weekend as Michigan progressives scored key victories. Michigan Democrats say they are closer together ahead of the midterm elections, despite the existing divisions within the party over foreign wars and corporate power.
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist and Washtenaw County prosecutor Eli Savit secured nominations for Secretary of State and Attorney General at the endorsement convention.
However, U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and Jordan Acker were booed by party delegates on Sunday. The outbursts illustrated the major divide between Democrats as leaders attempt to unite ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Acker was ultimately ousted by civil rights attorney Amir Makled as nominee for the University of Michigan Board of Regents while Stevens will face Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow and former Wayne County health director Abdul El-Sayed in the Michigan Democratic U.S. Senate Primary in August.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network Presents... Amplify Outside!
Welcome to the Amplify Outside podcast, a show with a mission of amplifying nuanced approaches to Intersectional Environmentalism centered in no other than Detroit, Michigan.
For our first episode we meet host Ian John Solomon and speak with the City of Detroit’s Director of Sustainability Tepfirah Rushdan about what makes Detroit green.
Follow along on Socials @AmplifyOutside!
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In this episode, Donna and Sam welcome the Deputy Director for Prosperity for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to discuss her work guiding and building support for efforts to boost the economic security of Michigan citizens.
As Deputy Director for Prosperity for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, (LEO), Kim Trent is charged with guiding and building support for efforts to boost the economic security of Michigan citizens through policy, strategic initiatives, programs and partnerships. Her leadership duties at LEO include serving as the key staffer to the Michigan Poverty Task Force. She leads the department’s prosperity division, which includes the Michigan High-Speed Internet Office, Office of Global Michigan, Michigan Women’s Commission, Michigan Community Service Commission, MI-STEM Council, and Black Leadership Advisory Council. She also serves as LEO’s Equity and Inclusion Officer.
A native Detroiter with Michigan roots that stretch back to the 1830s, Trent holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wayne State University. She also completed graduate studies at the University of Cape Town in Cape Town, South Africa. She has completed fellowships with the American Political Science Association in Washington D.C. and the Michigan Political Leadership Program at Michigan State University and is a graduate of the Detroit Regional Chamber's Leadership Detroit program.
To stay up to date on all things Authentically Detroit, click here.
DETROIT BY THE NUMBERS WITH ALEX B. HILL:
- 2,000
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Tree plantings planned by City of Detroit this spring (GSD)
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25
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ICE arrests in the last week of March that local groups have responded to, if that is a weekly standard that is close to 100 Detroiters a month (Peoples Assembly Detroit)
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$3 billion
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Balanced budget proposal presented by Mayor Sheffield
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65%
- Detroit landlords have a Detroit address (not sure if that is just the LLC though?) 93% own 1 or 2 properties, 62% are not associated with bad actor or speculator behavior
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In this episode, Donna and Sam welcome Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur and Joe Drew-Hundley of the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities to discuss their work eradicating racism, discrimination, and systemic inequities.
Rooted in the profound legacy of his mama, Ava Jo—whose love, humor, and grit shaped him long before any degree—Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur carries her spirit in everything he does. Today, as the first Black and formerly incarcerated Executive Director of the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities, Dr. Shakur brings that lived wisdom into building Just and Beloved Communities across Michigan.
Joe Drew-Hundley is the Deputy Director of the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities (MRJC). Joe’s relationship with MRJC began as a member of the Board of Directors, where he helped guide governance and strategy. Now, stepping into the Deputy Director role, he is focused on strengthening community partnerships, advancing MRJC’s values, and supporting Dr. Shakur and the team in building just and beloved communities across Michigan.
For more information on the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities and their work, click here.
WHAT WE’RE READING FROM THE MI CHRONICLE:
DETROIT COUNCIL MEMBER: DATA CENTERS COULD GROW CITY'S GENERAL FUND
FORMER HOUSE SPEAKER JOE TATE WON'T SEEK REELECTION
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with State Senate hopeful Eboni Taylor to discuss her vision for Michigan’s 3rd District as well as Nafeesah Symonette and Rhonda Green who gave insight into the Summer Arts Employment Training (SAET) Program.
Eboni Taylor is a lifelong Detroiter and daughter of the Eastside. She believes that we deserve better, but more than that, she believes that we can dictate what "better" looks like together. Team Eboni believes we are at a pivotal moment where our communities need leaders with relentless & authentic advocacy. She wants a better Michigan for her parents, herself, and she especially wants a better Michigan for our future - her children and yours.
The Summer Arts Employment Training Program is led by Heritage Works in partnership with Detroit Excellence in Youth Arts(DEYA), Grow Detroit's Young Talent (GDYT) and 10 arts partners working across Detroit to provide creative training and paid workforce opportunities. Detroit youth will have opportunities to gain experience in dance, visual arts, technical theater, youth-led arts education, or arts activism – while also developing workplace skills including teamwork, communication, entrepreneurism, and project management.
For more information and to apply, click here.
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Charles Erza Ferrell, De’Sean Jones, and Kenny Green to discuss the upcoming Concert of Colors Neighborhood Programs event.
The Concert of Colors in Detroit is one of the nation’s longest-running, largest, free and global music festivals. It is music from around the world at its best.
The Concert of Colors was established by Ismael Ahmed – the former head of the human services organization ACCESS – and New Detroit in 1993 as a one-day event at Chene Park on Detroit's riverfront. The inaugural event drew a modest crowd to Chene Park, but by 1999, some 10,000 music lovers were coming out each year. The festival expanded to three days in 2001, when it was part of the official festivities for Detroit's 300th birthday, drawing an audience of 100,000. In 2019, the concert expanded to nine days.
In 2026, as America marks its 250th anniversary, the Concert of Colors will honor the nation’s enduring spirit of unity, creativity, and resilience through its neighborhood programs. rooted in the belief that art is a bridge between people, this landmark visionary series brings the sounds and stories of Detroit's distinctive neighborhoods to life, connecting communities through shared heritage, dialogue, and hope. This project embraces and affirms the power of the arts to unite and uplift.
To register for Concert of Colors, click here.
WHAT WE’RE READING FROM THE MI CHRONICLE:
- BENSON TALKS DATA CENTERS, RESPONDS TO RACIAL DISCRIMINATION LAWSUIT
- INKSTER MAYOR CITES TLAIB'S LACK OF SUPPORT FOR KAMALA HARRIS IN CONGRESSIONAL CHALLENGE
- 36TH DISTRICT COURT WAIVES LATE FEES, WARRANT COSTS
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with interdisciplinary artist and founder of Amplify Outside, Ian Solomon to discuss recreation as liberation and how he plans to further amplify this message as the newest addition to the Authentically Detroit Podcast Network!
Ian John Solomon is an interdisciplinary artist from Detroit, Michigan. After receiving his B.A. in broadcast journalism from Walter Cronkite School and a stint as a congressional reporter in D.C., he found his love for community activism and storytelling required a more expansive platform. Deeply motivated by environment, Ian uses land as foundation and guidance for artistic expression and questioning.
Ian has exhibited and won awards across the Midwest, including being a 2023 Summer Fellow at Ox-Bow School of Art, 2024 Playground Detroit Fellow and 2024 Cranbrook Art Museum Purchase Award Nominee. Ian has received two Emmy nominations, an Emmy Award and a First Place award from the Society of Professional Journalists as host of a PBS-Great Lakes Now series’ Ian Outside’. Beyond his artistic practice Ian founded Amplify Outside, a Detroit based organization Amplifying Black outdoor recreation.
To learn more about Ian Solomon and his work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
WORKING FAMILIES PARTY: MICHIGAN DEMOCRATS 'SQUANDERED' LEGISLATIVE TRIFECTA
BENSON: TRIPS TO SELMA'S EDMUND PETTUS BRIDGE 'CREATED MY WHOLE LIFE'
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Hitha Healing House Founder and Executive Director, Kayana Sessoms and Executive Director of Brilliant Detroit, Tarsha Gale to discuss how their partnership is helping Detroit moms and their families.
In February, Brilliant Detroit unveiled a new partnership with Hitha Healing House that will allow the nonprofit to continue its programming, including its signature maternal wellness program, Nurturing Roots via Brilliant Detroit’s Central Hub following a December fire that rendered Hitha Healing House’s programming space unusable. The Hitha Healing House provides holistic maternal wellness services grounded in cultural healing traditions and trauma informed care.
Through the partnership, Hitha Healing House’s Nurturing Roots program will offer mothers up to ten paid wellness sessions following birth, including nutrition counseling, massage therapy, lactation support, chiropractic care and emotional wellness services at Brilliant Detroit.
To learn more about the partnership between Hitha Healing House and Brilliant Detroit, click here.
Detroit By The Numbers with Alex B. Hill:
- $500 million Property assessment valuation announced by the Sheffield administration. Read more on Detroitography!
- 254,700 occurrences of eBird observations within the City of Detroit boundaries (including Belle Isle). From the eBird Observation Dataset.
- 23% - Jobs in City pay 23% more than state average (UM RSQE - research seminar in quantitative economics)
- 6,500 Respondents to the Detroit Rise Higher community survey from Mayor Mary Sheffield, if you haven’t yet check it out and provide your input.
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On this episode, Donna and Dr. Anna Malaika Tubbs sat down for a live book talk at Wayne State University for their Black History Month program.
Anna, a two-time New York Times best-selling author, whose work explores the intersection of history, sociology and gender, is best known for her book The Three Mothers, which examines the lives and influence of the mothers of Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and James Baldwin.
Together, they honor these three mothers and discuss how their ideas, labor, and love shaped American history. They also connect their work to Detroit’s legacy, the erasure of women throughout history, and how Black women can reclaim their narratives in the present day.
To learn more about Dr. Anna Malaika Tubbs and her work, click here.
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Dexter Sullivan, founder of the Black Legacy Advancement Coalition (BLAC) to discuss how they’re building Black power and continuing Detroit’s legacy as a Black city.
The roots of BLAC began to take form in the heart of its founder, Dexter Sullivan, in the early 2000s. Then, in 2020, the world stopped as black residents were impacted at a disproportionate rate. Under the conditions of lockdown, we could no longer numb ourselves with the routine obligations of life and career. Instead, we were forced to reckon with the physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual ramifications of actively witnessing black lives destroyed without the responsible parties being held accountable.
As a coalition, they are driven by passion, healing and legacy-creation. While they strive toward a bold and powerful vision, they are clear that their efforts will require a commitment that spans decades and, perhaps, generations. Still, they are committed to creating a world that builds on the legacy of our ancestors who fought and died for centuries in an effort to secure our civil liberties and equity.
To learn more about Black Legacy Advancement Coalition (BLAC) and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
TERMINATION THREAT OVER DETROIT IMMIGRATION ARREST ANGERS MICHIGAN CONSERVATIVES
INTERNAL POLLING SHOWS BENSON LEADS JAMES AND DUGGAN IN RACE FOR MICHIGAN GOVERNOR
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Co-Executive Directors of the Black Bottom Archives, Marcia Black and Lex Draper Garcia Bey, to discuss how they’re working to uncover and restore our stories as Black Detroiters.
At the heart of Black Bottom Archive’s work are the people (and their descendants) who lived, worked, and built lives in Black Bottom and Paradise Valley. Their stories, resilience, and cultural contributions served as an inspiration for their organization. From entrepreneurs and artists to families and community leaders, these individuals embody the rich Black heritage they strive to preserve and celebrate.
To learn more about Black Bottom Archives and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
BLACK MAYORS BACK BENSON FOR MICHIGAN GOVERNOR
MIKE DUGGAN SAYS 'THE PAIN WHEN ICE IS IN YOUR COMMUNITY IS VERY REAL
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On this episode, Donna and Sam spoke with Stephanie Wright Griggs and Brian Taylor Sullivan about preserving Black history, the legacy of Dr. Charles H. Wright, and The Mountaintop, written by Katori Hall and currently directed by Brian Marable at the Detroit Public Theatre.
Healthcare Administration and African American history are the paths by which Stephanie has given a lifetime of public service. Her passion for both runs deep. She organically entered the path of preserving African American history in childhood as her father founded Detroit's Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Brian Sullivan Taylor is a SAG-AFTRA actor, director, and acting coach from Southfield, Michigan. He has experience across film, television, theatre, commercial, print, and voiceover. brian is the founder of the award-winning Detroit Drama Studio, where he trains actors using the Ivana Chubbuck Technique. Brian is honored to portray Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on The Mountaintop.
To learn more about Detroit Public Theatre and purchase tickets to The Mountaintop, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HOLLIER DROPS SECRETARY OF STATE BID TO LAUNCH EASTSIDE STATE SENATE CAMPAIGN
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On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Urenia Johnson and Adelina Robinson to discuss their newly formed collaboration, Thriveworks Coalition and how they’re amplifying access to essential services for families through a unified, holistic approach.
Founded by leaders from diverse nonprofit backgrounds, Thriveworks brings together organizations Corporate Development Institute (CDI) and Purposed Hands to create a “one-stop shop” for legal, financial, educational and family support.
Founded by Attorney Urenia Ricks-Johnson, Corporate Development Institute (CDI) is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and empowering underserved communities through financial literacy, youth mentorship and legal advocacy.
Founded by Adelina Robinson, Purposed Hands is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to assisting low-income families in Westland, Detroit and surrounding areas.
To learn more about CDI, Purposed Hands, and Thriveworks Coalition, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
'NATIONAL SHUTDOWN' IN DETROIT: CASS TECH HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WALK OUT TO PROTEST ICE
DATA CENTERS, DIRTY DIRT AND DUGGAN VS. DEMOCRATS
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In this episode, Donna and Sam had a virtual sit down with Alex B. Hill for Detroit By The Numbers and Kirsten Elliott, the CEO and President of Community Housing Network. Together, they trace a clear line from protest and media narratives to the daily math of housing: water debt, fixed incomes, PSH funding, and what “affordable” actually costs.
Community Housing Network empowers people to live in affordable homes to help build thriving communities. They envision a future where everyone can achieve stability, dignity, and opportunity. They aim to create thriving communities with affordable homes, connect individuals and families to essential resources, and foster a supportive workplace for their employees.
Their work is rooted in the idea that decent, affordable, and stable housing is a necessary foundation for a healthy, successful life.
For more information on Community Housing Network and their work, click here.
FOR DETROIT BY THE NUMBERS WITH ALEX B. HILL:
- 4 District-wide school closures for snow or cold weather this month (DPSCD)
- 1,827 Households signed up for 5,000 spots in the Lifeline H2O water assistance program. (Outlier/DWSD)
- 50% Detroit Seniors spend 30%or more of income on housing costs (The Conversation)
- 6% Census estimates show Detroit’s population at ~637 k with a high citizenship rate (~96.7 %) and a relatively small foreign-born share (~5.9 %) — below the average of 13% for other large cities. (Census)
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On this episode, Donna welcomes new co-host Sam Robinson to Authentically Detroit! They’re joined by Graig Donnelly and Aaron Abney of the newly launched Community Owner’s Representative Initiative (CORI) to discuss how they’re building Detroit’s capacity for equitable real estate.
The Community Owner’s Representative Initiative (CORI) is building Detroit's capacity for equitable real estate development, poised to model a new way forward to deliver impact through technical assistance while training leaders in the field.CORI is a long-term partnership between proxy and CDAD driven by the belief that we all deserve access to beautiful, uplifting spaces — because good design is not a luxury, it is a decision.
They believe that while the current ecosystem of funding, training, and coalition-building has strengthened the capacity of organizations to expand their programming and overall footprint in their communities. We need a systems-level approach to develop and preserve the real estate projects that neighborhoods need to thrive, not just projects that the private market will support.
For more information on CORI and to apply to the Quick + Equitable Fund, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
"GENERATIONAL CHANGE HAPPENING": MICHIGAN LAWMAKERS CROSS PATHS AT SHEFFIELD INAUGURATION
GILCHRIST ENDS GUBERNATORIAL CAMPAIGN, LAUNCHES SECRETARY OF STATE BID
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On this episode, Donna and Orlando reflect on their evolution since starting the podcast in 2019 as Orlando bids farewell to Authentically Detroit. Together they look at how time sharpens politics and encourage Detroiters to keep showing up and building power where it matters.
They also sat down with the Co-Founder and Executive Director of 482Forward to discuss how their work helps Detroiters to become fully engaged participants in efforts to change Detroit for the better. 482Forward grew out of trial by fire. Many of the founding organizations had previous relationships and shared work in Detroit, but came together for a special purpose– to create the 482Forward network.
Molly Sweeney and Jamila Martin, founding co-directors, convened a roundtable of community-based partners at Excellent Schools Detroit who were interested in engaging in education organizing in their neighborhoods.
Together, they are creating a Detroit where every student graduates ready to become a fully engaged participant in the world, equipped with the character and the capacity to negotiate her environment and change it for the better.
Sign up to gather signatures and join Love Beats Greed actions here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
JAMES TATE SELECTED AS DETROIT COUNCIL PRESIDENT
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On this episode Orlando sat down with legendary public relations executive, Georgella Muirhead and Vice President of 98Forward, Antonice Strickland to discuss how Georgella’s career shaped Detroit's communications landscape and paved the way for the next generation of leadership at 98Forward.
After nearly five decades of shaping Detroit’s civic, corporate, and community narratives, Georgella Muirhead, a trailblazer in public relations and communications, will retire at the end of 2025. Her retirement marks the culmination of an extraordinary career defined by leadership, integrity, and impact — and ushers in a bold chapter for 98Forward, one of Michigan’s most experienced and respected strategic PR and communications firms.
As 98Forward enters this next chapter, the firm remains anchored in the principles that have defined it for nearly 30 years: authenticity, strategy, and impact. With a Detroit soul and a national reach, the agency continues to lead with purpose — telling the stories that move communities, conversations, and the industry forward.
To learn more about 98Forward and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
THE MOTOR CITY CONTRACTOR FUND INVITES DETROIT CONTRACTORS TO PURSUE THE "ULTIMATE GIFT" THIS HOLIDAY SEASON: BIGGER, BETTER BUSINESS
MICHIGAN QUICKLY DELETES GOVERNMENT CHATS, RAISING TRANSPARENCY QUESTIONS
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this final episode of the year, they confront ICE targeting of Detroit students and families, press local leaders on silence and accountability, and weigh how Michigan’s political shifts will shape real safety, housing, and power.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with Sidewalk Detroit Program Director, Augusta Morrison and Earth Futures Fellow, Billy Mark to discuss the Echoes Soundmaps project and how they’re advancing public life through the lens of arts, culture, collaborative design and deep engagement with residents.
Sidewalk Detroit exists to advance public life and strong social infrastructure through the lens of arts, culture, collaborative design and deep engagement with residents. They practice an inclusive approach to creative city and neighborhood building that combines vision of residents, strategy, and artistic ideation to create engaging spaces, programs and experiences that improve communities across metro-detroit.
Echoes Soundmaps are created by placing audio files (voices, rhythms, poems, field recordings) onto specific zones on a digital map, like putting a pin on a google map, and then attaching/ uploading an audio file. Each zone can have its own shape, size, and behavior. These zones become invisible layers of sound over real places. When someone walks through the space with the echoes app, their phone’s gps triggers the audio in the zones they enter as they do the sound plays.
To learn more about Sidewalk Detroit, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN OFFICIALS INSIST 2019 AUTO NO-FAULT LAW LOWERED CAR INSURANCE RATES. IT DIDN'T
PARAMOUNT LAUNCHES HOSTILE BID FOR WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY DESPITE NETFLIX DEAL
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they trace Detroit’s housing failures from the Leland House scare to a subsidy-first market that missed real demand, then turn to solutions that center seniors, families, and accountability. Then, Maxwell Murray shows how DCFC and the Urban Football League use street soccer, food, and learning to reclaim space and teach civic power.
Maxwell is a Detroit native and founder of The Urban Football League. He joined Detroit City FC in March 2024 to support youth programming and expand access to the game across Detroit. A proud Detroiter, he first connected with the club as a summer intern in 2017. He studied African and Black Diasporic Studies at DePaul University, where he founded The Urban Football League to use soccer as a tool for cultural expression and community building. At DCFC, he leads efforts to break down barriers to participation and chairs the Youth Travel Program’s Community Resource Group.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with the newly appointed and first CEO and Executive Director of Detroit Promise, Onjila Odeneal, to discuss how they’re opening the doors of higher education to Detroit’s youth. Onjila’s hiring marks a historic moment as Detroit Promise enters a new chapter.
Detroit Promise provides every eligible Detroit high school graduate with a tuition-free path to college or trade school. Since its launch in 2013, the program has supported more than 6,000 students, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent Detroit's students from pursuing higher education.
As Detroit Promise’s CEO, Onjila will focus on advancing the organization’s strategic priorities, which include increasing awareness of the program among middle-school and high-school students, strengthening partnerships with colleges and employers, and expanding student supports to improve persistence and completion rates.
To learn more about Detroit Promise and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
WITH CLOCK TICKING ON 2025, MICHIGAN OFFICIALS EYE BIZ INCENTIVES DEAL
IMMIGRATION AGENTS ARREST TWO DETROIT TEENS, NOW HELD IN TEXAS
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On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with Aaron Marsh and Noah Stricker of LifeBUILDERS Detroit to discuss how they’re pouring into a community on the city’s east side.
Established in 2005 with the mission to bring life and hope to the east side of Detroit, LifeBUILDERS seeks to restore a community that had suffered the devastating effects of disinvestment for nearly 20 years.
They seek to help form new connections in the neighborhood by providing a place for neighbors to come together and have times of fellowship and help form a neighborhood that’s based on mutual support.
After 18 years of effort, millions of dollars, and tens of thousands of hours of volunteer help, the Regent Park community is now in the spotlight of future development and investment plans by the City of Detroit. People have hope, and want to live in the community.
For more information on LifeBUILDERS Detroit, click here.
DETROIT BY THE NUMBERS WITH ALEX B. HILL:
- 588 PAGES OF DETROIT REPARATIONS TASKFORCE REPORT.
- 36.6% DETROIT HOUSEHOLDS RELY ON SNAP (25.9% OF HOUSEHOLDS WITH CHILDREN) (U.S. CENSUS, ACS 1-YEAR ESTIMATES)
- $63M SPENT ON HOME REPAIRS IN 2024, MOSTLY FUNDED BY ARPA (43.5% OF FUNDING), 3058 HOME REPAIR INTERVENTIONS, 2,628 ADDRESSES
- 11,021 RESEARCH-GRADE OBSERVATIONS WITHIN THE CITY OF DETROIT ON INATURALIST (DETROITDATA)
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they trace how a demolition contractor without proper bonding left subcontractors unpaid, raised environmental risks through contaminated backfill, and exposed failures in selection, oversight, and ethics. They also discuss the WNBA’s Detroit return and the debate over what to name the team. Finally, they break down a high-stakes fight over DTE rate hikes plus their proposed AI data center whose impact on the environment and customer rates remain unknown. Together they take a look at how statewide politics are shaping oversight and the future of environmental justice.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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On this episode Donna sat down with the newly elected Denzel McCampbell plus Jasahn Larosa and Iris Taylor of the Southeast Michigan Perinatal Quality Improvement Collaborative (SEMPQIC).
Together, they explore a father-centered approach to maternal and infant health and the policy changes that make it possible, as well as Detroit’s new council voice on housing, transit, environmental justice, and participatory budgeting.
SEMPQIC is leading a groundbreaking initiative to fully embrace fatherhood, especially in the lives of Black children. Their Black Fatherhood Initiative directly addresses the stark disparities in maternal health outcomes faced by Black mothers by elevating the often-overlooked role of fathers.
For more information on SEMPQIC’s Black Fatherhood Initiative, click here.
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On this episode Donna and Orlando discuss Detroit’s historic election where the city elected Mary Sheffield as its 76th mayor along with a progressive bloc which aims to reshape Detroit’s future.
After months of forums and one-on-ones with candidates, they share why this landslide felt inevitable and why it has to translate into results at the neighborhood level. Early voting helped lift turnout to 22% this year, now they hope to keep people engaged with creating progress.
They believe a Detroit for everyone requires concrete action on affordable housing, home repair grants, inclusionary development, better transit, and jobs that actually employ Detroiters.
For more episodes of Authentically Detroit, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
SENATE ADVANCES PLAN TO END HISTORIC SHUTDOWN IN BIPARTISAN BREAKTHROUGH
AS DTE SEEKS SPEEDY APPROVAL TO POWER MASSIVE DATA CENTER, SOME OFFICIALS PUSH BACK
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On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with community organizer, Branden Snyder, to discuss the Working Families Party and how people can stay involved in the political process beyond election day.
They also unpack the media narratives swirling around the mayoral race, why they matter for young Black leadership in Detroit, and the government shutdown’s impact on EBT and food security across Michigan.
The Working Families Party is regular people coming together across their differences to make a better future for all. They are a multiracial party that fights for workers over bosses and people over the powerful. They want an America which realizes the promise – unrealized in our history – of freedom and equality for all.
Together, they break down the Working Families Party’s “inside-outside” strategy in Michigan: start small, build infrastructure, recruit multiracial working-class candidates, and create a values-based bloc that can negotiate policy, not just win headlines.
To learn more about the Working Families Party and how to get involved, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
ETHICS RULES DIDN'T REQUIRE SHEFFIELD TO DISCLOSE PAST RELATIONSHIP WITH DEMOLITION CONTRACTOR
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO ISSUE PARTIAL SNAP PAYMENTS AS SHUTDOWN DRAGS ON
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they weigh Detroit’s debate flashpoint over federal collaboration, trace how crime narratives collide with community violence intervention, and unpack why history makes National Guard talk a red line.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, in collaboration with the Eastern Market, Donna and Orlando hosted a live podcast edition of Happy Hour in the Market. This special event brings together food business owners, farmers, and producers for fresh bites, and dj vibes. For the month of October they chose to highlight Faust Haus Roasting Company and In The Mix Detroit.
Founded in 2021, Faust Haus Roasting Company started as a family venture aiming to educate the public on coffee’s African roots, specifically from Ethiopia. Based in Detroit’s historic Eastern Market Faust Haus Roasting Co., is a coffee roasting company that specializes in high-quality coffees from across the African diaspora. They offer wholesale options for partners, allowing for both coffee service in cafes and individual retail sale of their 12oz bags. This black-owned company, founded by Derek English, is known for its artisanal approach and commitment to robust flavors and responsible growth. Alongside their product offerings, Faust Haus is dedicated to making a positive impact on communities and providing relief to those in need.
Imani Foster is Chief Operating Officer of In The Mix Detroit, a collective of Black farmers and gardeners making a huge sustainability impact in Detroit. Essentially, In the Mix helps farmers bring their fresh food to market; providing resources like gardening supplies, educational workshops and an inviting community that welcomes newcomers.
To stay up to date with Happy Hour in the Market and learn more, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
THOUSANDS MARCH IN DETROIT NO KINGS PROTEST REBUKING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they dig into the contrast between rhetoric and results, what power should look like and who it should serve. The conversation gives a preview into this week’s mayoral debate between Council President Mary Sheffield and Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. Immigration reform, environmental justice, and fair housing all take center stage in this deep dive on how to build a credible record through community impact and structural results.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they honor Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, expose deceptive voter ID petition tactics, and map a local plan to protect democracy through civic education, youth leadership, and independent media. From federal overreach to neighborhood organizing, they connect history, narrative, and action in Detroit.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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On this special Hot Takes only episode, Donna and Orlando sit down for a much needed discussion about some of the hottest headlines in the city.
A routine post‑show photo shouldn’t become a campaign endorsement—and since it did, they had to talk about the cost. Together, they take a candid look at how a political mailer misused their image, why consent and context matter, and what journalistic neutrality protects for the whole community.
Next, they dig into attendance and accountability in Lansing after a Detroit lawmaker missed the vast majority of session days. And finally, they walk listeners through a “protect the vote” petition circulating at store entrances. Although it comes with a friendly pitch, its confusing details and requirements function as voter suppression.
Tune in for a conversation on ethics in media, community safety, voter rights, and what it takes to build trust one honest act at a time.
For more episodes of Authentically Detroit, click here!
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On this episode, Detroit City Council candidates Denzel McCampbell, Tyrone Carter, and Gabriela Santiago-Romero sat down with Donna and Orlando to discuss what they can offer their respective districts if elected to Detroit’s City Council.
These three council contenders lay out clear plans for housing, transit, youth opportunity, immigrant safety, and how to check mayoral power while delivering real neighborhood wins.
If you care where your tax dollars land, how trucks move past your home, or whether your teenager will find a fair shot here, this conversation is for you. Listen, share with a neighbor, and let us know your top neighborhood needs. And if these deep dives help you vote smarter, please follow the show, rate us, and leave a quick review—your feedback helps more Detroiters find the conversation.
To learn more about who’s running for office in Michigan, click here.
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This week, Orlando sat down with Ederique Goudia of In The Business of Food and Imani Foster of In The Mix Detroit to discuss Detroit’s food system and their organizing efforts throughout the city!
Ederique “E” Goudia is a native of Louisiana who brings a bit of Creole flavor and southern hospitality to Detroit, Michigan! With over twenty years of experience in the restaurant industry, she founded In the Business of Food, a foodservice-based consulting agency for women and POC-owned food businesses. She also co-created Taste the Diaspora Detroit, a food agency focused on celebrating foods of the African diaspora while helping to strengthen the Black food system in Detroit.
Imani Foster is Chief Operating Officer of In The Mix Detroit, a collective of Black farmers and gardeners making a huge sustainability impact in Detroit. Essentially, In the Mix helps farmers bring their fresh food to market; providing resources like gardening supplies, educational workshops and an inviting community that welcomes newcomers.
Happy Hour in the Market brings it all together: buyers and chefs step onto farms, tour beds, see price lists, and build relationships over music and mocktails. With roughly 3,000 farms and gardens and 1,900 licensed food businesses in Detroit, the opportunity is massive.
Join us for Happy Hour in the Market on October 20th at the Stoudemire inside Eastside Community Network for music, community, and a live Authentically Detroit show. Plus, make sure to stop by Shed 5 on Saturday and mention the show for $2 off a two-pound mirepoix.
For more information on Happy Hour in the Market, click here!
Detroit By The Numbers With Alex B. Hill:
- 100% Pay gap between Detroit jobs (commuters) and Detroiters with jobs.
- 48,823 DPSCD student enrollment is up! This same time in 2024: 48,386 and 2023: 47,401.
- 44 Units of unsubsidized market-rate housing built in 2025.
- 20 Detroit is bordered by 20 other municipalities including two fully surrounded by the city, and one international city.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they discuss President Trump’s threat to deploy the national guard in the city. Together they unpack how this rhetoric stems from dehumanization rather than genuine concern for Detroit residents and how these same dynamics show up in local politics. Including ballot initiatives that hide voter suppression under the guise of protecting democracy and campaign mailers falsely implying the endorsement of candidates.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, Adam Hollier joins Donna and Sam to discuss his decision to end his congressional race and instead join the race for Michigan Secretary of State. During the conversation Adam positions himself as uniquely qualified to protect Michigan’s electoral system against potential threats, highlighting his commitment to ensuring that votes will be counted fairly.
Together they dive into Detroit’s evolving political landscape through multiple lenses, including the possibility of Detroiters electing a woman as mayor for the first time. Adam also reveals his stance on the money out of politics movement and why he’s accepting donations from organizations like AIPAC during an ongoing genocide.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with David Daley, investigative journalist and author of Anti-Democratic: Inside the Far Right's 50-Year Plot to Control American Elections.
In 1981, a young lawyer, fresh out of Harvard law school, joined the Reagan administration’s Department of Justice, taking up a cause that had been fomenting in Republican circles for over a decade by that point. From his perch inside the Reagan DOJ, this lawyer would attempt to bring down one of the defining pieces of 20th century legislation—the Voting Rights Act. His name was John Roberts.
Now lauded investigative reporter David Daley reveals the urgent story of this fifty-year Republican plot to end the Voting Rights Act and encourage minority rule in their party’s favor. From the bowels of Reagan’s DOJ to the walls of the conservative Federalist Society to the moneyed Republican resources bankrolling restrictive voting laws today, Daley reveals a hidden history as sweeping as it is troubling.
To learn more about Anti-Democratic: Inside the Far Right’s 50-Year Plot to Control American Elections, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT GETS $19.8M FROM KNIGHT FOUNDATION TO BOOST ART, TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS
CITY OF DETROIT SLAMS ROGERS FOR CALLING ON TRUMP TO SEND TROOPS
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
In this episode, they discuss how corporate money is strangling Detroit's democracy, and politicians who claim to represent citizens are increasingly serving other interests. Following Karen Whitsett's troubling vote, where she sided with Republicans on issues vital to Detroit residents, they examined how financial influence corrupts our political system and what citizens can do to fight back.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna sat down with the Founder and Executive Director of What About Us Inc., Tammara Howard, and two of the leaders behind Detroit's Inaugural CDO Expo, Chandra McMillion and Quincy Jones.
Tammara Howard, founder of What About Us Inc., has had a 55-year journey on Belvidere Street, where she's created a grassroots organization serving Detroit's Gratiot Woods neighborhood. From a youth block club started in 1999 to today's five community spaces including a resilience hub, Howard demonstrates how resident leadership creates lasting change.
Quincy Jones and Chandra McMillion are two of the leaders behind Detroit's CDO Expo, which brought together 37 community development organizations to showcase their collective impact. Held at New Lab in Michigan Central Station, the event highlighted the professional, data-driven work these organizations are doing across Detroit.
The conversation reveals how these grassroots leaders are reclaiming Detroit's narrative by proving neighborhoods can be revitalized without displacing residents. Their work represents a powerful counterpoint to the notion that people must leave Detroit to find a better quality of life.
If you want to support What About Us Inc., contact 313-918-9604 or send donations to the cash app $1234WhatAboutUsInc.
Detroit By The Numbers With Alex B. Hill:
- 90% OF DETROIT POLLING PLACES HAVE ACCESSIBILITY CHALLENGES
- $144 MILLION INVESTED IN BELLE ISLE SINCE 2014
- 96 EVENTS FOR DETROIT MONTH OF DESIGN IN SEPTEMBER
- $2 MILLION SPENT BY MAYORAL CANDIDATES IN THE PRIMARY
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, Imani Foster of 482Forward joined them to discuss the Invest in Michigan’s Kids campaign.
482Forward is creating a Detroit where every student graduates ready to become a fully engaged participant in the world, equipped with the character and the capacity to negotiate her environment and change it for the better.They believe all children have the right to an excellent education, regardless of their race or socioeconomic status.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains sensitive, potentially triggering themes and language related to sexual assault. Listener discretion advised.
This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Kalimah Johnson, Founder and CEO of the SASHA Center, to discuss how they are supporting and empowering Black people who have experienced sexual assault.
At the SASHA Center, Kalimah’s mission is to increase awareness, provide resources and educate the public about sexual assault, provide culturally specific peer support groups to self identified experiencers of rape and to increase justice and visibility for survivors in Southeast Michigan.
Kalimah is a highly esteemed expert therapist who has made a significant impact in the field of mental health and relationship counseling. She has been an advocate and counselor to survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence for 24 years and is an industry expert on topics related to culturally specific programming for sexual assault survivors.
To learn more about Kalimah, the SASHA Center and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT ANNOUNCES NEW ‘EMERALD ALERT’ FOR SERIOUS MISSING PERSONS CASES
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This week, Orlando sat down with Mary Lewis, CEO of the Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic (GBCHC), to discuss how Michigan's largest volunteer-led free clinic is filling the healthcare gap in Michigan.
The mission of the Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic is to provide free, high-quality medical, dental, and pharmaceutical care for low-income and uninsured patients. In addition, their goal is to ensure that treatment is provided in a caring, compassionate and dignified atmosphere.
With the recent Medicaid changes putting over 700,000 Michigan residents at risk of losing coverage, the role of free clinics has never been more critical. At GBCHC, they provide medical, dental, pharmacy, vision, and specialty care at no cost to patients. The clinic is on the front lines of health equity, offering an innovative, community-driven solution to a statewide healthcare access crisis.
If you're uninsured, underinsured, or interested in learning more about the GBCHC, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MARY SHEFFIELD, SOLOMON KINLOCH WIN DETROIT'S MAYORAL PRIMARY
MICHIGAN PAUSES CONTROVERSIAL I-375 CHANGES IN DETROIT, CITING COST AND PUSHBACK
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode they discuss the shocking results of the 2025 primary election where Mary Sheffield received over 50% of the vote and Solomon Kinloch and Saunteel Jenkins battled for second and third place respectively. These results reveal a shift in Detroit politics with surprising outcomes in several city council races, setting up dramatic contests for the November general election.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Maurice Weeks of Detroit City Appointments Project (DCAP) to discuss their collaborative effort to scout, vet, and recommend effective and diverse candidates for service in Detroit's city government.
The Detroit City Appointments Project is working to find candidates who are committed to the public good. The project works with organizations from around the city, state and country, to cultivate a robust list of candidates for over 100 mayor appointed or mayor nominated positions. Additionally, DCAP works to inform agendas for key agencies, leveraging the power of organized people throughout the city.
To learn more about the Detroit City Appointments Project, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN BALLOT INITIATIVE AIMS TO REVEAL 'DARK MONEY' DONORS BEHIND POLITICAL ADS
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode they discuss the final stretch of Detroit’s mayoral primary race and candidates' last appeals to voters across neighborhoods. Campaign finance records reveal who’s funding the race while candidates face scrutiny over past actions, outside money influences, and policy positions on issues affecting Detroit's future.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando spoke about everything from fresh collard greens, vital city statistics, to innovative educational partnerships all of which celebrate Detroit's cultural legacy and future potential.
They began with a brand-new segment, "Detroit by the Numbers" featuring Alex B Hill of Detroitography who breaks down surprising statistics shaping our city. These numbers tell a powerful story about civic participation, energy infrastructure, and housing vulnerability that affects every resident.
Next, they welcomed Chef Keisha, crowned champion at Detroit is Different’s 2025 Collard Green Cook-Off. Her Alabama-inspired greens earned a perfect score from the judges. More than just a culinary triumph, her story celebrates the cultural preservation work happening through food traditions that bring Detroiters together.
Finally, they explored a groundbreaking educational partnership as Robin Kinnie of Audio Engineers of Detroit discussed their recent collaboration with Ferris State University. This alliance creates a clear pathway for Detroiters to transform technical training into university credits toward a bachelor's degree.
From voter statistics to soul food traditions to educational innovation, this episode showcases the people working to preserve Detroit's cultural legacy while creating new opportunities for its future.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode Kenneth Russell, a rising junior at Southeastern High School, joins them to provide a youth perspective on politics in Detroit, the mayoral race, and how politicians can do a better job of reaching young voters.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with the President and CEO of the Hudson Webber Foundation, Donald Rencher to discuss the election, Detroit’s housing market, public safety beyond policing, and expanding access to capital for small businesses and entrepreneurs from historically marginalized communities.
Donald Rencher assumed the role of President and CEO at the Hudson Webber Foundation in February 2024. Prior to his tenure at the foundation, Rencher served as the Group Executive for Housing, Planning & Development for the City of Detroit, a role he held since January 2021.
Rencher's impact on Detroit's landscape is undeniable, having held progressive leadership positions within the city for nine years. Rencher's leadership and commitment to equitable urban development make him a driving force in shaping the future of Detroit's built environment and ensuring opportunities for all its residents.
To learn more about Donald Rencher and his work with the Hudson Webber Foundation, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
VOTER TURNOUT WAS UP DURING MICHIGAN'S 2024 ELECTION. FIGURING OUT EXACTLY WHY MAY BE TOUGH.
IN THE PAST 50 YEARS, WE'VE LOST MORE THAN 150 MAJORITY-BLACK NEIGHBORHOODS
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode they discuss the significant issues around gender bias in candidate coverage and how a troubling generational gap in voter participation skews elections toward older residents' interests.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode Bryce Huffman, Bridge Detroit’s Engagement Editor, joined Donna and Sam to discuss how Detroit's mayoral and council races are unfolding as candidates learn from each other and adapt their platforms to community feedback, creating a dynamic competition of ideas that could reshape the city's political landscape.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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Last week, Abdul El-Sayed sat down with Donna to discuss his candidacy for the U.S. Senate!
Abdul is running for the U.S. Senate because he believes life in Michigan shouldn’t be this hard — or this expensive. After a successful career of making government work for Michiganders, he wants to take his vision to Washington and make the United States Senate work for you.
He was born and raised in southeast Michigan and proudly attended public schools where he captained his high school football, wrestling, and lacrosse teams. Abdul was raised by his father, Mohamed, an Egyptian immigrant, and his stepmom, Jackie, whose family has lived in Gratiot County, Michigan, since the 1800s. he graduated from the university of michigan with the highest distinction and played on the wolverines men’s lacrosse team. Abdul earned his medical degree from Columbia University on an NIH-funded fellowship and a second doctorate at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar.
Abdul currently lives in Ann Arbor with his wife, Sarah, and their two brilliant young daughters, Emmalee and Serene.
To learn more about Adbul El-Sayed and his vision for Michigan, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode they discuss the importance of participating in Detroit’s August 5th primary election. They go over how political endorsements are creating interesting divisions, District 5’s diversity of interesting city council candidates, low projected voter turnout (13%-18%), and whether or not Zohran Mamdani’s victory for democratic socialists in NYC could have an impact on Detroit’s politics.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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On this episode, Donna and Orlando sat down with Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II to discuss his vision for Michigan’s future. This episode is part of a series of interviews with candidates in various political races throughout the state of Michigan.
Garlin is running for Governor to build on the progress of the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration by bringing bold new ideas to help Michiganders thrive. Growing up in Detroit, Garlin knows what it feels like to be part of communities across Michigan, the Midwest, and country that have been forgotten.
Prior to serving as Lieutenant Governor, Garlin worked at Microsoft as a software engineer that helped build SharePoint into the fastest growing product in the company’s history. As the City of Detroit’s Director of Innovation, he created the Improve Detroit smartphone app that allows residents to report issues for the city to address like running water, potholes, damaged street signs, and other issues.
Garlin is the highest ranking Black elected official in Michigan history.
To learn more about Garlin Gilchrist and his vision for Michigan, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Joel Haashiim to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the ninth in a series of interviews with candidates in the race to become Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Joel Haashiim believes that for radical change we must refocus our energy from fighting the old, to building the new. At 20 years old, he opened up his first store called brothers party store on 7mile and Hartwell. Afterwards, he opened two more stores. Later, he sold those stores and became a wholesaler and distributor. Throughout his career, he sold to chain stores like Kmart, Spartan, and Wynn Dixie.
He has experienced and witnessed the many ups and downs Detroit has gone through. That's why he stepped up to the plate. He believes he understands what is needed for our city to come out of the mud and regain the crown we once had. For Joel, this is about us and making sure we Detroiters will have a say in the revitalization of our great city.
To learn more about Joel Haashiim and his vision for Detroit, click here.
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Last weekend Authentically Detroit teamed up with Daily Detroit, Outlier Media, and Eastside Community Network to bring together some of the top polling candidates in the running to become Detroit’s 76th Mayor!
Candidates in Attendance:
- Fred Durhal III
- Saunteel Jenkins
- Todd Perkins
- Mary Sheffield
The debate included questions and topics specifically highlighted by the audience members. If you’re interested in watching the full debate, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode they discussed Detroit’s first televised mayoral debate which revealed deep division amongst the candidates. The debate which featured four out of nine candidates exposed some of the strengths and weaknesses of those seeking Detroit’s top office.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode Black Democracy Project interns - Antwan Hart and Sedrick Huff Jr. - from the MSU Innovate Program joined the conversation around Detroit’s alleged comeback. Both Antwan and Sedrick are political science majors on the pre-law track at Michigan State with an interest in reforming the criminal justice system. These impressive rising leaders will be assisting with the Black Democracy Project over the summer.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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Last week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Jer Staes and Norris Howard of Daily Detroit teamed up to discuss the upcoming debate featuring some of the top polling candidates in the running to become Detroit’s next mayor!
Together, they discuss the upcoming mayoral debate partnership and the surprising withdrawal of candidate Solomon Kinloch Jr. from this community forum. They explore how campaign finances and strategic choices provide windows into how these candidates might govern, with Mary Sheffield recently crossing the million-dollar fundraising threshold.
This collaborative episode between Authentically Detroit and Daily Detroit demonstrates our commitment to putting community needs above competition. Join us at the Eastside Community Network on June 21st as we bring the remaining mayoral candidates face-to-face with the community's most pressing questions.
For more information about the upcoming debate, click here.
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On this episode, Donna and Orlando sat down with the Former Police Chief of Detroit James Craig to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the eighth and final interview in a series of interviews with candidates in the race to become Detroit’s 76th mayor.
James Craig began his career as a Detroit police officer in 1977. After gaining experience in Detroit, he continued his law enforcement career in Los Angeles, where he spent nearly three decades with the LAPD.
In 2013, James Craig returned home to Detroit to take on one of the toughest law enforcement jobs in the country—leading the Detroit police department
He is running for mayor because he believes Detroit needs bold, decisive leadership that puts the people first. he understands that crime, economic growth, education, and government transparency are top concerns for Detroiters, and he has a plan to address them head-on.
To learn more about James Craig and his vision for Detroit, click here.
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On this episode, Donna sat down with write-in candidate Rogelio Landin to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the seventh in a series of interviews with candidates in the race to become Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Rogelio Landin is a longtime community activist. He has a long history of being involved in Latino civil rights groups in Southwest Detroit. He is currently president of the state chapter of United Latin American citizens (LULAC). He's a contributing political columnist for El Central newspaper in Detroit and in recent years has been involved in five neighborhood advisory committees.
He believes in part that by annexing 28 “distressed” communities in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, Detroit will once again have the clout to solve many of the city's woes.
To learn more about Rogelio Landin and his vision for Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode A. Nzere Kwabena, Executive Director of LGBT Detroit joined Donna and Sam to discuss homophobia in the local Democratic party following homophobic comments made and supported by prominent members of the party. Together they explore how religious views impact political representation, mental and physical challenges affecting LGBTQ+ Detroiters, and the importance of politicians showing up for the community rather than merely claiming support.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Jonathan Barlow to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the sixth in a series of interviews with candidates in the race to become Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Jonathan Barlow is a Detroit Public Schools graduate, attendee of Wayne State University, CEO, and lifelong advocate for youth, families, and entrepreneurs. He has spent over 20 years fighting for Detroit’s future, helping homeowners during the foreclosure crisis, building businesses that create jobs, and working with city leaders to drive economic growth.
Jonathan is running for mayor because he believes Detroit deserves leadership that works for all of us - not just the few. His vision is to bring good-paying jobs, affordable housing, modernized city services, and innovative technology solutions that will propel Detroit forward.
To learn more about Jonathan Barlow and his vision for Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode they discuss the upcoming 2025 election and how it's bound to change the landscape of Detroit. They take a look at the mayoral, Congressional District 13, and city council races and how identity politics intersects with substantive policy positions. Overall, the question remains which candidates will represent neighborhood interests, serve as effective checks on executive power, and govern with integrity.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Todd Perkins to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the fifth in a series of interviews with candidates in the race for Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Todd Perkins grew up in the North End, raised by parents who instilled in them the values of hard work, education, faith, and integrity. The home he lives in today was purchased by his great-grandparents nearly a century ago. As a proud graduate of The University of Detroit Jesuit High School, he credits them with instilling the mission of being “A man for others.”
As the founder and owner of one of Detroit’s largest Black-Owned law firms, The Perkins Law Group, he’s dedicated his career - spanning three decades - to serving the city. In addition to his law firm, he founded and has continued to operate a sports management company representing athletes from their high school to and through their professional careers.
Todd also leads a nonprofit organization, The People’s Voice, dedicated to giving back to Detroiters. He believes that together - with bold, experienced, and compassionate leadership that puts people first - we can make Detroit a better place.
To learn more about Todd Perkins and his vision for Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode Arlyssa Heard, Parent Leader and Education Organizer with 482Forward, joins Donna and Sam to discuss how real change requires both political and grassroots activism in order to create the strongest resistance against injustice.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, Reverend Larry Simmons rejoins Donna and Sam to discuss how we can restore Detroiters’ faith in democracy and community during these times of crisis. They explore what’s possible for Detroiters as local elected officials focus on military investments and insist that providing necessities, such as affordable housing, is not the role of government.
For more episodes of the Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, click here.
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Last week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Mary Sheffield to discuss her vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the fourth in a series of interviews with candidates in the race for Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Mary Sheffield is a native Detroiter with a demonstrated track record of service, empowerment and leadership in the community. Currently serving as the City Council President, Mary has earned widespread admiration for her unwavering commitment to uplifting her constituents and fostering positive change. Mary's deep-rooted passion for her hometown fuels her tireless efforts to make a difference.
In November of 2013, Mary embarked on her journey of service and made history by becoming the youngest person ever elected to the Detroit City Council at the age of 26. Mary's visionary leadership and collaborative spirit have helped shape policies that promote inclusivity, equity, and opportunity for all Detroiters.
With a keen focus on revitalizing neighborhoods, creating economic opportunities, and ensuring access to essential services, Mary has become a beacon of hope for residents across the city.
To learn more about Mary Sheffield and her vision for Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, they are joined by the Director of Community Engagement and Organizing at MACC Development, City of Detroit Reparations Task Force member, and East Side Queen - Edythe Ford to discuss passing the political torch to the next generation of Detroiters.
To learn more about Edythe and her legacy, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Fred Durhal III to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the third in a series of interviews with candidates in the race for Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Fred Durhal III is a Detroit City Councilmember, representing District 7 since 2021. He also serves as the Chair of the Budget, Finance, and Audit Standing Committee and Vice-chair of the Planning and Development Standing Committee.
Durhal’s legislative career began in 2014 when he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives for the 5th House District. He quickly rose to leadership roles, including Assistant House Democratic Leader and Minority Vice-Chair of the House Appropriations Committee.
Durhal’s passion for improving Detroit extends beyond his official duties, having volunteered with organizations like AmeriCorps, Habitat for Humanity, and UAW Local 60006. His focus remains on stabilizing neighborhoods, increasing public safety, and fostering economic development throughout Detroit.
To learn more about Fred Durhal III and his vision for Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, they are joined by author, community builder, and founder of Umoja Debate League - Jerjuan Howard - to discuss how he went from law school hopeful to shaping the minds of Detroit’s youth with the art of debate.
To learn more about Jerjuan and Umoja Debate League, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Saunteel Jenkins to discuss her vision for Detroit’s future. This episode is the second in a series of interviews with candidates in the race for Detroit’s 76th mayor.
Saunteel Jenkins is a lifelong Detroiter, former Detroit City Council President, gun violence prevention advocate, and former CEO of The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW), where she kept families healthy, safe, and warm.
Saunteel worked as a social worker, director of the residential treatment center at the Mariners Inn homeless shelter for men in Detroit, national business development director for a private education company that provides services to low-income children in at-risk school districts, and at one time ran her own dessert catering company, Petite Sweets.
She is a proud graduate of Cass Technical High School and Wayne State University, where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work.
To learn more about Saunteel Jenkins and her six priorities for Detroit, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, they are joined by community advocate and candidate for city council in District 7, Denzel McCampbell to discuss the role of city council in a strong mayor city, why he’s running, and what voters should expect.
To learn more about Denzel and his campaign, click here.
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This week Donna and Orlando hosted a live episode at the Stoudamire Wellness Hub with Yodit Mesfin Johnson, the President and CEO of Nonprofit Enterprise at Work (NEW) to discuss navigating the new normal.
Utilizing facts published by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, they define the new normal as the dismantling of our government’s systems and institutions. Together, they come up with practical solutions and also invite the audience to offer wisdom and share strategies of resistance.
As President & CEO of NEW, Yodit stewards their bold vision, strategic direction and overall operations. A mother, poet, strategist, and champion for human rights and social change, she first joined NEW as a consultant in 2008, and became CEO in 2020.
Yodit thrives in building community around the questions that matter most; how can we unlock the potential and possibility needed to radically transform our communities, see the ecosystem and the whole, and design and act in ways that bend the long arc of history towards balance and harmony?
For more information on Yodit’s work with NEW, click here.
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this episode, they are joined by Kamau Clark, the Southeast Michigan Lead Organizer for We The People Michigan, to discuss how he got into organizing, his role in this year’s elections, and how to engage young people in local politics.
Topics of Discussion include:
- The opening of the Hudson’s building
- The validity of research methodology of Black and Hispanic wealth increases
- Community Violence Intervention (CVI) as an alternative to policing
- The male loneliness epidemic and right wing messaging
- Defining the working class
- Journalism's role in highlighting the working class
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Cartographer and founder of Detroitography, Alex B. Hill to discuss how data-driven neighborhood classification aids in the discrimination of Detroiters.
Detroitography is a project started by Alex to bring together Detroit cartographers and their work. In 2021, he wrote that although over the past decade, redlining has received increased attention in popular press and across academic disciplines, there’s a larger story of spatial racism before and after redlining.
Alex argues that spatial racism is not limited to a single set of maps, but is embedded within institutions. Now, he wants the long history of spatial racism teased out and examined as new data-driven practices have resulted in “orange lining” that generates inequitable opportunities for Detroiters.
To read Alex’s full write up of how spacial racism is impacting Detroit, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT CHAMPION, FATHER, HUSBAND, DIES AFTER CORONAVIRUS DIAGNOSIS
DETROIT 67 EXHIBIT BECOMES PERMANENT, DEDICATED TO MARLOWE STOUDAMIRE
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The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit one million present: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson!
The purpose of this podcast is to encourage Detroit's citizens to stay vigilant in the fight for justice and equality, with a special call to action for Black Detroit. We seek to build awareness of our history as a gateway to freedom, a beacon for justice, and a laboratory of liberation. Together, Donna and Sam will illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a resource for navigating civic engagement and election season.
On this inaugural episode, they are joined by the one and only Reverend Larry Simmons, the Executive Director of Brightmoor Alliance who has been a fixture in the city of Detroit for decades. Topics of Discussion include:
- Emergency Management vs. DOGE
- Financialization of Detroit
- Race war vs. Class war
- Environmental Justice
- Immigrant labor exploitation and historical oppression of Black people
- The upcoming 2025 Detroit mayoral and city council elections
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This episode marks the first in a series of interviews with candidates in the race for Detroit’s 76th mayor. First up, Donna and Orlando sit down with Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. to discuss his vision for Detroit’s future.
Rev. Solomon Kinloch, Jr., was born to the late Solomon, Sr. and Janie Kinloch on July 28, 1973.He has been a minister since the age of 14, beginning under the tutelage of rev. Robert Smith, Jr. at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan.
In 1998, pastor Kinloch accepted the call to pastor at triumph church, in detroit, michigan. At the beginning of his tenure, Triumph's membership was less than 50 people. Under Kinloch's visionary leadership, Triumph church has since blossomed into a multi-site phenomenon, utilizing eight campuses and hosting fourteen weekly services for more than 35,000 members.
Extraordinary growth and dynamic leadership has helped drive Triumph's community outreach and ministry initiatives. Pastor Kinloch currently serves on the board of directors for various civic and community organizations. He is married to his best friend, and partner for life, Robin, and together they have one son, Kadin Elijah.
To learn more about pastor Kinloch, click here.
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Ebony Walls and Anne Marie Veneroni of Big Brothers Big Sisters to discuss their upcoming annual event and Imani Elie, the founder of The Detroit Travel Company (DTC) to discuss how she’s revolutionizing the way people think about travel.
The Detroit Travel Company was created in December 2016 by Detroit native and Navy veteran, Imani Elie. Created as a boutique travel business, DTC has evolved into a multifaceted company known for its luxury travel experiences, adventure practices, and retail success.
Today, DTC is a full-service hospitality company offering a one-of-a-kind mix of travel, concierge, event planning, and retail services.
Under Imani’s leadership, DTC is more than just a business—it's a platform to empower others, bring people together, and put Detroit on the map as a global destination for travelers and event-goers alike.
To learn more about Detroit Travel Co., click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
BARRIER-BREAKING DETROIT JOURNALIST AND MUSICIAN LUTHER KEITH DIES AT 74
BID TO BUILD BRIGHTER FUTURES AT THE GREAT BIG AUCTION
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Vaulted Youth Voices participant, Kenneth Russell and the curator for Umoja Fine Arts to discuss the Youth Artist Workshop, an initiative dedicated to celebrating African American creativity.
Kenneth Russell is a young artist and sophomore at Southeastern High School who has been learning to combine his artistic background with civic engagement through the Vaulted Youth Voices podcasting program.
Umoja Fine Arts (UFA) is a family-owned art publishing and distribution company committed to helping the Detroit Metropolitan area celebrate the great artistic achievements of local and internationally acclaimed artist.
Founded by Ian Grant, they recently organized the Black History Month Youth Artist Workshop, an initiative dedicated to celebrating African American creativity and fostering the next generation of artists while encouraging the preservation of Black history and Culture through art.
To learn more about Umoja Fine Arts and Ian’s work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN SCHOOLS, FAMILIES GRAPPLE WITH NEW TRUMP IMMIGRATION POLICIES
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Sam Robinson, independent journalist and founder of Detroit one million, to discuss Michigan’s Democratic Convention plus the Mayoral and City Council races!
The trio discussed Sam’s insights about the convention and the implications for Detroit’s residents and leadership. Together, they explore the future of Detroit’s governance and how it will impact the community moving forward.
Detroit one million is a journalism project centering a generation of Michiganders growing up in a state without a city with 1 million people, and the competing forces working to bring people back.
Sam is currently the only independent reporter covering the 2025 Detroit mayoral race through the lens of young people, who the city’s current mayor calls “Michigan’s greatest export.”
To learn more about Detroit one million and Sam’s work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN LAWMAKERS OVERHAUL PAID LEAVE, WAGE LAWS IN LAST-MINUTE DEAL
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with journalist Aaron Mondry and the President and CEO of The Operations School or “OSchool,” Racheal Allen.
Launched in 2019 by serial entrepreneur and nonprofit executive Racheal Allen, OSchool serves more than 1,200 students per year free of charge, helping them get their businesses legal, branded, operational, noticed, profitable, and ready to scale.
Allen founded OSchool to help Black business owners beat the odds by drawing on lessons from her own experiences as an entrepreneur and modeling it into her flagship curriculum, “Get Your Business Legit.”
Housed in Centric Place, a first-of-its-kind incubation space for Black arts, culture and entrepreneurship in Farmington Hills, OSchool is expanding its reach through partnerships with the Apple Developer Academy, the Lansing Economic Development Corporation, and the Michigan Black Business Alliance.
It also now has the financial backing of a 3-year, $2.8 million Small Business Support Hubs Grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Allen was the only African American to receive the funding out of 27 recipients across Michigan.
For more information on Racheal and the OSchool, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
THE REAL ESTATE SCHEME GOBBLING UP DETROIT, ONE DIGITAL TOKEN AT A TIME
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This week, Donna and Orlando took an opportunity to catch up with each other on current events local and nationwide!
Detroit's current political landscape is buzzing with anticipation as the mayoral race heats up, with key candidates vying for the position amid pressing social issues and community needs.
This discussion highlights the desire for compassionate leadership and deeper engagement with residents. They also tackle critical topics like immigration policies and how they affect us locally as well as public health concerns around the closure of Lafayette Coney Island.
If you have topics you want discussed on Authentically Detroit, click here!
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Authentically Detroit presents a special interview with Detroit-born director and writer, Lawrence Lamont!
Lawrence Lamont got his start shooting music videos for Grammy-Nominated Artist, Big Sean. Previously Lawrence directed multiple episodes of HBOMax's Rap Sh!t Season 1 and 2, produced by HOORAE Productions. He also completed a pilot for HBOMax and shot the Detroit Pistons branding campaign for the 2022-2023 season.
“One Of Them Days,” starring Keke Palmer and SZA, serves as his feature directorial debut. The film follows best friends and roommates Druex (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA) after they discover Alyssa’s boyfriend has blown their rent money, the duo finds themselves going to extremes in a comical race against the clock to avoid eviction and keep their friendship intact.
To watch the trailer for “One Of Them Days,” click here.
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This week, Donna was joined by guest host Dwan Dandridge and Marc Alexander, the founder of Lite Tuition. Together, they discuss the transformative potential of economic solidarity and the strategic navigation of social circles to overcome systemic obstacles.
Marc’s story is a testament to the collaborative spirit that can drive significant social change. In 2009, Marc Alexander was a senior at Kettering University struggling to finance his next semester of school. When word of his struggles to secure a student loan reached his local paper, he was blessed to receive an anonymous check in the mail to cover the rest of his education. The check came with one message, "Pay it forward," and Marc set out to do exactly that.
In his mission to support other students struggling to finance their education, Marc created the company Lite Tuition, a social tech company that empowers students to increase their fundraising potential through a custom built crowdfunding platform. Light Tuition is a beacon of hope for those burdened by financial struggles due to student loans debt.
For more information on Marc Alexander and Lite Tuition, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
WAYNE COUNTY PARKS DIRECTOR, HUSBAND FACE GUN CHARGES AFTER DISPUTE OVER 10-CENT CAN DEPOSIT
HOW DETROIT WANTS TO SPEND $346 MILLION IN FEDERAL DISASTER RECOVERY AID
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Sarah Alvarez, the founder and editor-at-large of Outlier Media, to discuss their groundbreaking SMS System.
Sarah Alvarez, the visionary force behind Outlier Media, believes the best local reporting is a service that responds directly to community needs and reduces harm. In 2016, Outlier Media began as a “Txt Outlier” a texting service delivering critical information to Detroiters and allowing people to connect directly with a reporter.
As of today, this enhanced service allows their newsroom to better serve Detroiters, connecting them to information and resources they need in areas including housing, utilities, income support, employment, food and transportation.
Detroiters can text in at any time to get immediate, automated info, look up property details or get individual help. By texting “reporter” they can connect with an Outlier journalist, who may follow up with a phone conversation. The new system is more intuitive for users and improves internal workflows and communication.
For more information on Outlier Media and TXT Outlier, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT LIONS CLINCH NUMBER ONE SEED AND WIN NFC NORTH AFTER BEATING MINNESOTA VIKINGS
INTERNAL DIVISIONS DOOM MICHIGAN DEMOCRATS IN THEIR FINAL DAYS OF LEGISLATIVE CONTROL
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This week, Donna and guest host Chase Cantrell sat down with the founders of Detroit Mulch, Brooke & Casey Oberg plus multi-talented artist, Megan Kashat.
Brooke and Casey started Detroit Mulch with the mission of recycling trees as sustainably and efficiently as possible, while creating local jobs in the process! Together, they’re transforming Detroit’s landscape in an innovative and eco-friendly way. To learn more about Detroit Mulch, click here!
Megan Kashat is a multifaceted Arab American artist based in Detroit. Her artistic journey fuses music, dance, and painting to express her Detroit roots on the global stage. Megan's artistic journey has been marked by significant achievements, including features in renowned publications like Billboard Magazine and Rolling Stone. To learn more about Megan and her artistic journey, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN LAME-DUCK LEGISLATURE: HOUSE DEMOCRATS REVOLT AGAINST SPEAKER TATE
DETROIT MAYORAL CANDIDATE WOULD PUSH ENTERTAINMENT TAX TO OFFSET PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
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This week, Donna and Orlando held the final book club meeting of 2024 with celebrated poet, author, and cultural arts curator, jessica Care moore to discuss her impactful work, “We Want Our Bodies Back.”
An award-winning poet, recording artist, book publisher, activist, cultural arts curator, and filmmaker, jessica is executive producer and founder of Black WOMEN Rock! - Daughters of Betty, a 20-year-old rock & roll institution, concert and empowerment weekend, and she is the founder of the literacy driven 501c3, The Moore Art House. Her nonprofit organization in Detroit dedicated to elevating literacy through the arts in neighborhoods and schools.
Jessica's publishing house, Moore Black Press, has published poets including Saul Williams, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, asha bandele, and Danny Simmons, and in 2024 is preparing to publish their first poetry and spoken word audiobooks through an imprint deal with HarperCollins.
To learn more about jessica Care moore, click here!
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with the Founder of Be Well Beautiful People Demarra West to talk about her story of overcoming trauma and building a supportive community for those who need it most!
Be Well Beautiful People is a 501c3 organization with a deep-seated commitment to bridging significant gaps in accessible healing and liberation support while disrupting systems that cause harm. The organization was founded by Demarra West, a seasoned entrepreneur, therapist, and wellness professional with more than two decades of experience.
Be Well Beautiful People envisions a world where all of us are well, no matter where we came from, or where we started in life.
They believe the only way to make that vision a reality is by ensuring those most affected by trauma including BIPOC, LGBTQI+, the low income, and those impacted by incarceration and foster care, have access to wellness solutions that are actually proven to help them rise in every area of their lives.
To learn more about Be Well Beautiful People, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT REPARATIONS TASKFORCE DISAVOWS LEADER'S ROGUE POLICY REPORT
DUGGAN WON'T SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2025, SETTING UP A MAYORAL FREE-FOR-ALL
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This week, Orlando sat down with the Executive Director of SHARE Detroit, Janette Phillips and the Executive Director of Black Artists Archive, Dr. Kelli Morgan to discuss innovative strategies for nonprofit fundraising and fostering a nurturing environment where Black artists can thrive.
The mission at Black Artists Archive is to dismantle conventional art history by highlighting the experiences and contributions of Black artists, with a dedicated focus on Detroit artists. They aim to connect communities to these narratives, creating a space where history, culture, and creativity intersect.
Curator, educator, and activist in the cultural sector, Dr. Kelli Morgan is widely known as a leader in progressive museum practice whose work develops and advances anti-racist approaches to art curation, fundraising, and community engagement.
To learn more about Black Artists Archive and their work, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
MORALE IS HORRIBLE: STELLANTIS FACTORY LAYOFFS THIS FALL NEAR 4,000
WHAT IS GIVING TUESDAY? THE ANNUAL DAY OF CHARITABLE GIVING IS COMING UP
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with the Founder and Executive Director of What About Us Inc., Tammara Howard and, a rising star in Detroit’s music scene, Niko Noir
Together, they unpacked the emotional aftermath of the 2024 Election while navigating how love and hope can sustain us in uncertain times. Community organizing takes center stage as they dissect varying political narratives and the quest for power among minority communities.
What About Us, Inc. (WAU) is a resident-led, grass-roots organization founded in 2015 and is dedicated to building neighborhood connectedness and capacity to lift up the voices of residents who feel marginalized. Founder and executive director, Tammara Howard, is committed to strengthening the physical, mental, and emotional health of Detroit youth and their parents through the services of WAU. Tammara shared her remarkable journey of transforming neglected spaces into beacons of hope, emphasizing inclusivity for disabled individuals and the LGBTQ community.
Niko Noir is an artist, performer, songwriter, vocal producer and producer hailing from Detroit’s east side. Niko offered insights into the challenges faced by independent artists in a competitive music scene. Her tales of community love and appreciation emphasize the enduring power of family and collaboration.
Click here to learn more about What About Us, Inc., and keep up with Niko Noir’s musical journey here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
DEMOCRATS OVERESTIMATED DETROIT TURNOUT. WHAT HAPPENED?
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On the eve of the 2024 Election Day, Donna and Orlando sat down with the Executive Director of Building Community Value (BCV), Chase Cantrell.
BCV is a Detroit-based non-profit organization dedicated to equipping residents with tools to shape their neighborhoods.
They recently announced the launch of their first-ever online course, “Real Estate Development: Building Value in Your Community.” Hosted on Coursera, the course aims to teach aspiring real estate developers the fundamentals of real estate development, including development stages, team building, project feasibility, social impact, and financial modeling.
This innovative online course, developed in close collaboration with the University of Michigan Center for Academic Innovation (CAI), marks a significant shift for BCV. Traditionally focused on in-person training for residents of Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park, the online course is now accessible to learners worldwide, fostering real estate and community development skills on a scale far beyond SE Michigan.
To learn more about Building Community Values’ online course, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT STRENGTHENS SECURITY AT SITES WHERE BALLOTS ARE COUNTED
LATE RESULTS, VOTING MACHINES, AND MORE: DEBUNKING MICHIGAN'S ELECTION MISINFORMATION
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This week Guest Host Chase Cantrell joined Orlando to discuss politics in Detroit, Michigan, and at a National level.
Together, the duo shined a light on critical issues impacting women's health, particularly breast cancer patients. Jenna Wright, co-president of the Shades of Pink Foundation shared insights about the patient journey and the foundation's mission to ease the financial burden for those affected and its goal to raise a million dollars by 2025.
Finally, they turned the focus to Detroit's vibrant political landscape. Navigating the buzz around early voting and potential candidates for the upcoming mayoral race. Analyzing the shifting political scene, they cover everything from the dynamics within city council, to the speculation on Mayor Duggan's re-election plans.
To learn more about Chase Cantrell and his work, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
HOW A 'PINK TAX' ON WOMEN CAN HURT THEIR HEALTH, ESPECIALLY FOR BREAST CANCER PATIENTS
SHADES OF PINK FOUNDATION IS DIVING HEADFIRST INTO BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH THIS OCTOBER
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with the Executive Director of Umoja Debate League, Jerjuan Howard to discuss his trip to Ghana with 15 Detroit students!
Umoja Debate League is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses debate as the vehicle to teach Detroit youth ages 11-18 transferable life skills, such as critical thinking, confidence, conflict resolution, increased literacy, and self-expression.
In August, they proudly announced the successful conclusion of their 2024 trip to Ghana. Fifteen students from Henry Ford High School, Cass Tech High School, and Bates Academy, winners of our 2024 Championship Debate Tournament and Zip Code Improvement Speech Competition, engaged in an enriching eight-day cultural immersion experience.
This journey was an opportunity for students to connect with their lost heritage, broaden their global perspective, and build lasting memories. The experience enriched their understanding of African history and culture and strengthened their commitment to community leadership and Pan-African principles.
To learn more about Umoja Debate League, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
BRIAN AND ALEXA COLE LAUNCH NEW BOOK, THE WILLINGNESS TO CHANGE, FEATURING FOREWORD BY NYT BEST-SELLING AUTHORS KEVONSTAGE AND MRSKEVONSTAGE
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This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with Aisha J. Morrell Ferguson, Chief Development Officer at COTS Detroit and the founders of Black Tech Saturdays Alexa and Johnnie Turnage
Alexa and Johnnie Turnage are visionary leaders dedicated to reshaping the landscape of technology and fostering inclusivity. As the co-founders of Black Tech Saturdays, they have pioneered a groundbreaking movement aimed at empowering underrepresented communities within the tech industry.
Alexa's passion for technology and equality, combined with Johnnie's grassroots activism and entrepreneurial spirit, culminate in a powerful force for change. Together, they spearhead initiatives that offer educational workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events, creating pathways for aspiring Black professionals.
Their collaborative efforts exemplify a commitment to breaking down barriers and creating a more diverse and equitable tech ecosystem.
To learn more about Black Tech Saturdays, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN HUMANE'S ANIMAL CARDS ARE ABOUT MORE THAN ADOPTION
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This week Donna and Orlando sat down with Bernadette Atuahene of the Coalition for Property Tax Justice, to discuss their recent win, getting homes worth under $40,000 removed from the foreclosure list!
Founded in 2017, the Coalition for Property Tax Justice is a collective of several long-standing Detroit grassroots organizations formed to accomplish three goals:
- Stop unconstitutional property tax assessments
- Compensate Detroit residents who overpaid or have already lost their homes because of illegally inflated property taxes
- Suspend pending property tax foreclosures until it is confirmed that the delinquent taxpayers were not unconstitutionally assessed
Bernadette Atuahene is a property law scholar focusing on land stolen from people in the African Diaspora. She is the daughter of Ghanaian immigrants who grew up in Los Angeles and attended UCLA for college. She then earned her JD from Yale and her MPA from Harvard.
To learn more about Bernadette and her work, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
FACT-CHECK: TLAIB DID NOT SAY NESSEL CHARGED PRO-PALESTINIAN PROTESTORS BECAUSE SHE'S JEWISH
DETROITER MAY LOSE HER HOME OVER SUCCESSION DISPUTE, SHE'S NOT ALONE
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In July, Donna and Orlando became the first podcast to ever grace the African World Festival!
Bryce Detroit joined the duo on stage to discuss his ‘Hood Closed to Gentrifiers’ campaign in light of events and news stories coming out of the city.
They also spoke with Kevin Davidson, Director of Design and Fabrication for the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History to learn more about the history of the museum and the festival
To learn more about the African World Festival, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
WRIGHT MUSEUM ART EXHIBITION 'DOUBLE ID' HIGHLIGHTS STRUGGLES OF BLACK MEN
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This week Donna and Orlando sat down with Researcher and Policy Advocate, Amber Hendley to discuss her fight to reclaim her grandfather’s church!
Amber is an accomplished researcher and policy advocate, known for her work in fair lending, wealth creation, and financial systems reform, particularly focusing on Black outcomes.
During her childhood, Amber and her mother resided in Detroit alongside her grandfather, Gary M. Douglas, Jr., the inaugural and only Black pastor in the history of the Abyssinia Interdenominational Church, where they actively participated in the life of the church.
For the past four years, she’s been actively engaged in Detroit with the intention to reconnect with former church members and have meetings with local developers, leaders, lenders, and city officials to gain insight into the needs of the area from the perspective of its native residents.
To learn more about Abyssinia Interdenominational Church, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT JUDGE WHO HAD TEEN HANDCUFFED FOR SLEEPING TEMPORARILY REMOVED FROM DOCKET
DETROIT RELEASES 5-YEAR PLAN TO IMPROVE HOMELESSNESS
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This week Donna and Orlando sat down with Interdisciplinary Artist, Halima Cassells and Founder of Sidewalk Detroit, Ryan Meyers-Johnson!
Together, they discussed a collaborative art installation at Eliza Howell Park that teaches people about the impact of microplastics on the environment and the importance of sustainable practices for keeping our earth clean.
Sidewalk Detroit is an organization working at the intersection of spatial equity, environmental justice, public art, community building and place-keeping. This spring, they announced Detroit-based artist Halima Cassells as the 2024 Eco-Artist-in-Residence at Eliza Howell Park, part of Earth Futures, a public art initiative and artist-in-residence program in Detroit covering issues of climate crisis such as air quality and water pollution through the lens of spatial equity and public art.
The residency kicked off on April 20 with a river clean-up event at Eliza Howell Park, where participants joined forces to rescue materials from the Rouge River, embarking on the start of turning trash into treasure for the newest upcycled art installation at the park.
For more information on Halima Cassells and Sidewalk Detroit, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT'S COLLARD GREEN COOK-OFF IS BACK
AUGUST 2024 PRIMARY: HOW DETROIT VOTED
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This week Donna and Orlando sat down with the Author of the Natural Hair Dictionary, Mo Williams.
Mo Williams, founder of Such a Natural, a Black-owned hair salon in Metro Detroit, authored and published the world’s first ever Natural Hair Dictionary®, a new book that defines exactly what natural hair and hairstyles are.
As a sequential reference guide, The Natural Hair Dictionary’s: Natural Hair Style List includes titles, descriptions and more than 60 original photographs defining natural hairstyles. It is a culmination of over a decade of experience in the natural hair industry, encompassed within a tool, resourceful to many.
If you’re looking to learn more about the Natural Hair Dictionary, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
SABRINA NELSON HONORS JAMES BALDWIN'S LEGACY WITH 'FRONTLINE PROPHET: JAMES BALDWIN' EXHIBITION AT THE CHARLES H. WRIGHT MUSEUM
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This week, the organizers of the Afro Nation Festival plus a group of Detroiters who worked together to create an equitable development framework joined Authentically Detroit!
Donna and Orlando sat down with Smade - Co-founder of Afro Nation Festival, Josh Koram - Festival organizer/Lead Talent Booker, and Essosa - Festival organizer/ Communications and Social Manager. Together they discussed this year’s festival lineup, how they continue to unite the African diaspora, why Detroit is the only U.S. stop, plus all the other festivities taking place over the weekend.
Graig Donnelly, India Solomon, and Bucky Willis also joined the dynamic duo to talk about an equitable development framework they created together that analyzes current conditions and makes recommendations for how the city can move forward.
If you’re looking to learn more about Afro Nation and get tickets, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
AFRO NATION IS HEADED TO DETROIT FOR THE SECOND YEAR
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Last week Authentically Detroit pulled up to Next Chapter Books for a book club discussion!
Donna and Orlando were joined by a live audience inside of the family-owned bookstore on Detroit’s east side. Tananarive Due is an award-winning author who teaches Black Horror and Afrofuturism at UCLA.
A leading voice in Black speculative fiction for more than 20 years, Due has won an American Book Award, an NAACP Image Award, and a British Fantasy Award, and her writing has been included in best-of-the-year anthologies.
Due’s latest novel, “The Reformatory,” is a gripping, page-turning novel set in Jim Crow Florida. Twelve-year-old Robbie Stephens, Jr., is sentenced to six months at the Gracetown School for Boys, a reformatory, for kicking the son of the largest landowner in town in defense of his older sister, Gloria. So begins Robbie’s journey further into the terrors of the Jim Crow South and the very real horror of the school they call The Reformatory.
If you’re interested in learning more about Tananarive Due and The Reformatory, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT POLICE ANNOUNCE BLOCK PARTY CRACKDOWN AFTER SHOOTING THAT KILLS 2 AND INJURES 19
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The Business of Food in Detroit with Marcus Reliford Jr. and W.E. Da’Cruz
This week Donna and Orlando traveled to the Eastern Market for a live podcast featuring Business Strategist, Marcus Reliford Jr. and CEO of The Mushroom Angel Company, W.E. Da’Cruz.
The conversation titled, ‘From Incubation to Acceleration: Stories of Scaling a Food Business,’ is part of a larger series where industry veterans explore pivotal challenges impacting the food industry and provide valuable insights to food business owners and entrepreneurs.
These gatherings also serve as a forum for networking and building community. If you’re interested in growing your foodservice business, ‘Accelerating your Food Business.’ is a six-week cohort tailored for growth-stage foodservice entrepreneurs looking to scale up!
Powered by Eastern Market and In the Business of Food, During these six weeks, you'll learn all about management, customer service, menu optimization, systems, technology, HR, and so much more.
Limited spots are available and applications close on July 18th so, apply now!
FOR HOT TAKES:
FRAMEBAR IN HAZEL PARK CLOSES CLOSES AFTER POP-UPS OBJECT TO BUSINESS PRACTICES
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This week Donna and Orlando returned to the studio after a brief hiatus to catch up on everything that’s happened in the city and their lives! The dynamic duo covers everything from the Ford Fireworks debacle, the Riverfront Conservatory Scandal, to the growing housing crisis in the city.
They also introduce the Detroit Playlist Live, a monthly music series co-produced by Authentically Detroit and Detroit is Different. This unique platform gives music enthusiasts the opportunity to delve into various musical landscapes with other music enthusiasts.
This interactive event fosters community engagement and celebrates the rich diversity of musical genres. Structured akin to a book club, The Detroit Playlist Live features curated albums and standout tracks chosen by the hosts - Orlando Bailey, Khary Frazier, and Donna Givens Davidson.
For more information and to join us tomorrow at Brix Wine (1588 Franklin St, Detroit, Mi 48207), click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
WHY IS THE DETROIT POLICE DEPARTMENT USING LASSO LIKE RESTRAINTS
MICHIGAN STUDENTS FELL BEHIND DURING COVID, THEIR RECOVERY LAGS OTHER STATES
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This week Donna and Orlando spoke with the youth of the Vaulted Youth Voices Podcast Program - Alex, Charles, Corey, and Faith - about current events in the city and how they feel about the new Detroit.
Vaulted Youth Voices is a podcasting program for high school students interested in the intersection of community organizing and media. Youth participants meet for biweekly sessions where they learn how to develop, produce, and host a podcast. Youth also develop the ability to translate their voice to direct action within their respective communities. The Vault Youth have a real passion and drive for making a difference in the world.
If you know a high school student interested in participating in the Vaulted Youth Voices Podcast Program this fall, click here.
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This week Donna and Orlando spoke with Darell “Red” Campbell Jr. about The Yunion’s Keys 2 Life (K2L) performing arts summer camp, offering youth the opportunity to learn with some of Detroit’s most experienced musicians, mentors, instructors, and industry professionals.
The program's director, Darell "Red" Campbell Jr., is a platinum, stellar--award winning producer, musician, songwriter and teacher with a heart for creating opportunities for other children like he had at a young age, and empowering them to find hidden talent and potential within themselves.
K2L is a dynamic, immersive 6-week performing arts summer day camp at the held on Wayne State University's campus in collaboration with the Maggie Allesee Department of Theater and Dance beginning July 1.
Now in its 11th year and serving more than 1,125 students, the program's mission is to inspire and empower the next generation of performers through a diverse range of performing arts experiences such as beat making, dance and song writing, all designed to expand participants' skills, broaden their horizons and set them on a path to success.
For more information on Keys 2 Life and how to get involved, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
LEGISLATION COULD BRING $1BILLION IN TRANSIT FUNDING TO METRO DETROIT OVER NEXT DECADE
DETROIT ICONS LAUNCH SERIES OF MICHIGAN CENTRAL FESTIVITIES
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This week Cindy Eggleton, co-founder and CEO of Brilliant Detroit sat down with Donna and Guest Host Chase Cantrell to discuss how they’re improving literacy rates while tackling blight!
Since 2016, Eggleton has guided Brilliant Detroit’s growth through its community-led approach. Her leadership has propelled the organization to 18 neighborhoods by transforming a house in need of repair into a creative community hub. It partners with 170 national and local organizations to deliver early childhood education, health and family support programs. More than 20,000 children have benefited from the programming.
According to Eggleton, the model works because it’s with, for and by neighbors. Brilliant Detroit gets a house and repurposes it only after they have been invited into the neighborhood. Parents are central to the success of Brilliant Detroit. The organization aligns the programs and activities so kids and families can get what they need to measure their own success. They also form advisory groups in the neighborhood so there’s continuous input.
For more information on Brilliant Detroit and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
ALLEGED THEFT FROM DETROIT RIVERFRONT CONSERVANCY COULD REACH $40 MILLION
WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY POLICE DISMANTLE ENCAMPMENT; 13 ARRESTED
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This week Drake Phifer of Urban Organic joined Orlando and Guest Host Kat Stafford to discuss the 6th Annual Detroit Diaspora Day Party.
Urban Organic Arts and Culture company was founded in 2001. They curate events and promote visual, cinematic and performing artists.
This Sunday, May 26th, they will host their 6th Annual Diaspora Day Party. This vibrant event will showcase an exceptional lineup of music connoisseurs hailing from Detroit and beyond, offering an immersive journey into electronic beats that epitomize the city’s pulsating holiday vibe and beyond.
For more information on Urban Organic and the Detroit Diaspora Day Party, click here.
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This week Donna and Orlando sat down with Michelle Renaud, the founder of Urban Solace to discuss the importance of mental and physical health!
As a Detroit native, Michelle sought to improve access to quality health education and wellness programming within her community - through Urban Wellness Group, which was founded in 2001 and has offered mobile corporate programming and community fitness initiatives to countless clients and students since its inception.
As an experienced registered teacher with Yoga Alliance (E-RYT 500), Michelle has over 25 years of practice on her mat. She became an avid practitioner after sustaining a severe knee injury in 1997 that sidelined her passion for running. Incorporating yoga into her rehabilitation plan helped her discover its functional fitness benefits.
Urban Solace is the proud producer of the longest-running, FREE outdoor yoga programs in downtown Detroit. They’ve been providing fun & fitness on the riverfront to thousands of residents and visitors since 2007.
For more information on Michelle and Urban Solace, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT CITY COUNCIL TO ASSEMBLE COMMISSION TO REPRESENT RENTERS
DETROIT ANIMAL KEEPING ORDINANCE HEADED TO COUNCIL FOR A VOTE
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This week, DiAnna Solomon of the Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA) joined Donna at The Stoudamire to share news of their Health Care Taskforce!
The DAAA is a nonprofit agency that serves older persons, adults with disabilities, and caregivers residing in Detroit, Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park & the 5 Grosse Pointes. They are one of 16 Area Agencies on Aging in the state of Michigan and 622 in the nation.
DAAA assists older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers by removing social, economic, physical, and psychological barriers and creating aging-friendly neighborhoods through nutrition, health and wellness, and senior independence.
For more information on DAAA, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
BRIDGE DETROIT ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR ORLANDO BAILEY TO HEAD UP OUTLIER MEDIA
DETROIT CITY COUNCIL ASKS MAYOR TO FUND PRIORITIES MISSING FROM BUDGET
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There’s no NFL Draft in the city without Authentically Detroit!
In honor of the NFL Draft in Detroit we welcomed Charity Dean of the Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) plus NFL power couple, Channing and Aja Crowder!
Charity walked our hosts through how the NFL partnered with the MBBA to make sure Black Businesses in Detroit weren’t left out of the economic boom brought by the draft and also shared some tips for those looking to enjoy the festivities.
Donna and Orlando also had the pleasure of sitting down with former NFL player and host of The Pivot podcast, Channing Crowder, along with his wife - realtor, media personality, and entrepreneur - Aja Crowder for a very rare interview of them together!
For more information on the NFL Draft and the complete fan guide, click here.
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This week, Stefen Welch joined Donna and Orlando in the studio to discuss his journey as a leader, role with the Detroit Pistons, and the war on DEI.
Stefen Welch serves as vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for the NBA’s Detroit Pistons. A Detroit native, Welch focuses on the team’s strategy to attract and acquire diverse talent, professional development opportunities for employees, and identifying strategic business initiatives.
For more information on Stefen and his work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
GILBERT'S HUDSON BUILDING UNLIKELY TO MEET PROMISED JOB, TAX REVENUE WHEN GM WORKERS MOVE IN
MICHIGAN'S HEALTH CARE DISPARITIES STARK FOR BLACK RESIDENTS, STUDY FINDS
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This week, Rick Sperling and Nafeesah Symonette joined Donna and Orlando in the studio to discuss the Detroit Excellence in Youth Arts (DEYA) Launch Awards.
The Launch Awards are a transformative opportunity for creative youth in Detroit, created by DEYA in collaboration with the Detroit Youth Arts Provider Network. The microgrants are specifically tailored to fill gaps in artistic development, making arts education more equitable and accessible for all of Detroit’s young creatives.
The Launch Awards consist of $40,000 distributed evenly over March, June, September, and December of 2024. Eligible youths, aged 11-19, have the chance to apply quarterly for awards up to $250 to help foster their artistic journeys.
For more information on the DEYA Launch Awards and to apply, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
FAKE SOCIAL MEDIA RENDERING OF DETROIT SIGN SET EXPECTATIONS TOO HIGH, DUGGAN SAYS
TREAT OUR RESIDENTS WITH RESPECT: DETROIT ORDINANCE LOOKS TO TACKLE FUGITIVE DUST
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This week Chase Cantrell joined Authentically Detroit as guest host and Akil Talley, Lanay Gilbert-Williams, and Malik Yakini of the Detroit People’s Food Co-Op gave a sneak peek into how they’re changing Detroit’s food ecosystem.
Opening on May 1st, the Detroit People’s Food Co-Op is a Black-led and community-owned grocery cooperative. Following a model developed throughout the world as a way to increase access to healthy, sustainably grown food, the Detroit People’s Food Co-Op is located in the historic North End neighborhood.
The Detroit People’s Food Co-Op will offer a full-line of groceries, be open to the general public, and cooperatively owned. Their unique model differs from many food co-ops in the United States as it serves an urban, predominantly African American, low and moderate-income community.
For more information on the Detroit People’s Food Co-Op and to get involved, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT CREDIT RATING UPGRADED 2 NOTCHES, REACHES INVESTMENT GRADE FOR 1ST TIME SINCE 2009
AS HOMELESS CRISIS GROWS, STATES AND CITIES ARE TURNING TO VOTERS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with nurse and life coach, Patrice Wilson-Graham!
Charity Dean joined Orlando as guest host for our final celebration of the women making history in the city of Detroit. Born and raised on Detroit’s east side, from a young age, Patrice faced challenges that would break even the strongest of spirits.
However, armed with a desire to prove her doubters wrong, she achieved her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Her accomplishments extend beyond the realm of healthcare as she is also a licensed minister, dedicated mentor, non-profit CEO, and powerful motivational speaker. Patrice’s mission is simple yet profound - to inspire, uplift, and empower others to unleash their full potential and achieve their dreams.
For more information on Patrice and her work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT URBAN AGRICULTURE LEADER TO HEAD SUSTAINABILITY OFFICE, SOLAR EFFORTS
MOBILE HOME RESIDENTS FIGHT RENT HIKES AND DEPLORABLE CONDITIONS
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Last November Khary Frazier, Co-Host and Founder of the Detroit Is Different podcast, joined us on Authentically Detroit. So, it’s only right that Donna and Orlando joined him on his show!
Detroit is Different is known for exploring guests, Detroit story, or how they and/or their family came to be in Detroit. On this episode, Donna shared her family’s Detroit story, dating back to the early 1900s. From her revolutionary grandmother, to Donna's work in the present day, this conversation highlights Detroit’s legacy as the Blackest city in America.
For more information on Detroit is different, click here.
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with the leadership team of 98Forward and Charity Dean joined as guest host!
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we sat down with three remarkable women reshaping the PR landscape as leaders of 98Forward, Michigan’s largest Black-owned, Women-led PR and communications firm. Our conversation touched upon 98’s legacy and its future trajectory after 25 years in business. We delved into the unique experiences of not just being women but being Black women in various spaces.
If you’re interested in learning more about 98Forward and their work over the years, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT REPARATIONS TASK FORCE HOSTS TOWN HALLS WITH BLACK AUDIT PROJECT
MICHIGAN LAWMAKERS REVIVE TOLL ROAD DEBATE
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with the host of #AskJenn, Jennifer Onwenu!
Donna and Orlando sat down with Jenn to discuss her show, #AskJenn's rise to prominence. Started in 2022, #AskJenn has become a successful web platform that highlights the cultural cornerstones of being a Black Woman, Detroiter, autism parent, and millennial. Jenn uses a humorous and witty style to capture the attention of her audience. Garnering support online and in her community, Jenn hopes to combine the influence of Oprah and the humor of Monique to be the next talk show giant.
If you’re interested in learning more about #AskJenn, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
CITY PLANS AB FORD PARK WALK-THROUGH AMID SOIL, TREE REMOVAL CONCERNS
DETROIT POLICE OVERSIGHT BOARD MEMBERS ABUSED THEIR POSITIONS
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This week Authentically Detroit pulled up to Next Chapter Books for a book club discussion!
Donna and Orlando were joined by a live audience inside of the family-owned bookstore on Detroit’s east side. For our first book club podcast, we read and discussed “Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America” by Michael Harriot.
If you’re interested in learning more about Michael Harriot and Black AF History, click here.
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed two special guests!
First, during Hot Takes, Donna and Orlando spoke with Anthony Eid of the Michigan Redistricting Commission about how redistricting maps will impact Detroit’s voters in the upcoming elections.
Then, we had the opportunity to sit down with lawyer, union organizer, actor, father, and business owner Hill Harper! Hill discussed his candidacy for the U.S. Senate and his stance on key policy issues that will determine our quality of life in the near future.
If you’re interested in learning more about Hill Harper and his candidacy, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
REDISTRICTING MAPS GIVE GOP A FIGHTING CHANCE AND BOOST DETROIT'S CLOUT
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with the one and only Shamiyam “Mama Shu” Harris of Avalon Village!
Donna and Orlando spoke with Mama Shu about the importance of building community and utilizing collective action to self-determine our futures. She also gave a sneak peak into the expansion of the Goddess Marketplace and Whine and Tea Shop and Avalon Village’s journey to becoming more sustainable.
Mama Shu is CEO of Avalon Village in Highland Park, MI. She is a mother, a community activist, and a former school administrator, who served Detroit schools for 27+ years. Her dream of building this urban oasis was manifested after the tragic loss of her sons. In 2023, she became a CNN Hero Top 10 finalist.
If you’re interested in learning more about Mama Shu and Avalon Village, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
AN ASSESSMENT OF DETROIT'S ECONOMIC CONDITION AND A CRITIQUE OF ITS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS
DETROIT PEOPLE’S FOOD CO-OP OPENS MAY 1ST
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This week Authentically Detroit discusses the state of the city in 2024!
In honor of Donna’s invitation to the State of the State this week, Donna and Orlando sat down together to discuss what’s currently happening in the city of Detroit. The two of them discussed population growth, public safety, the social wellbeing of people and more. As President and CEO of the Eastside Community Network (ECN), Donna works to find solutions to many of the obstacles that Detroiters face on a daily basis.
If you’re interested in learning more about ECN and their work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
BUCS RB TRIED TO PAY HOMAGE TO DETROIT WITH TOUCHDOWN CELEBRATION
MICHIGAN INDEPENDENT CITIZENS REDISTRICTING COMMISSION SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT IN DETROIT
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with Kamau Jawara, the Southeast Michigan Lead Organizer for We the People Michigan.
Donna and Orlando sat down with Kamau to discuss a thread he created on X, formerly known as Twitter. In the thread, Kamau detailed public safety narratives in the city, their history, and how we should utilize them moving forward into the election season.
Kamau is a politocultural organizer and storyteller from Detroit’s east side who uses political education and cultural strategy to support concentrations of Energy Justice, Leadership Development, and Co-Governance. If you’re interested in the full thread on X and keeping up with Kamau and his work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MURAL DOLLARS DENIED
COMMUNITY CONCERNS, CONFUSION OVER BRIGHTMOOR STORMWATER PLAN
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Right before the holiday break, Orlando sat down with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Gov Garlin Gilchrist to discuss the state’s population growth plan following the Growing Michigan Together Council’s 85-page report designed to spur growth and attraction to the state.
Check out the full write up, on Bridge Detroit!
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This week Charity Dean joined Authentically Detroit once again as a guest host!
Founder of KwanzaaMe and Woodworker, Lawrielle West, joined Orlando and Charity to discuss the importance of celebrating the principles of Kwanzaa year-round.
KwanzaaMe is a lifestyle brand that cultivates community and culture through their products and programming. A manifestation of the love of Black people, Black culture, and honoring Black traditions - KwanzaaMe represents the commitment to planning what Black freedom looks like.
Combining woodworking with years of community organizing experience, and a passion for community and shared values, KwanzaaMe embraces a Kwanzaa everyday lifestyle with open arms.
For more information on Lawrielle and KwanzaaMe, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HOW DETROIT FITS INTO MICHIGAN'S POPULATION GROWTH PLAN
OFFICIALS TOUT DETROIT'S FALLING HOMICIDE RATE
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This week Charity Dean joined Authentically Detroit as co-host!
President and CEO of TechTown Detroit, Ned Staebler joined Orlando and Charity to discuss TechTown Detroit’s designation as a Small Business Support Hub.
The Small Business Support Hubs (SBSH) program aims to establish and strengthen inclusive, accessible and effective regional ecosystems for entrepreneurs. The SBSH program aims to create a statewide network of entrepreneurial hubs equipped to serve the needs of small businesses through direct support and network referral relationships.
Among its objectives, the SBSH program intends to strengthen and establish locally relevant, regionally based ecosystems to cultivate a more inclusive, accessible and effective entrepreneurial ecosystem; and position small business support hubs to increase the number of businesses served through new and scaled programming, technical assistance and other support services.
For more information on TechTown Detroit and their programs, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
WHITMER: $550 TAX REFUND CHECKS COMING FOR 700,000 MICHIGAN HOUSEHOLDS
DEAL WITH HENRY FORD, PISTONS, MSU DRAWS MIXED VIEW ON IMPACTS OF BENEFITS
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This week Authentically Detroit previewed the 2023 Eastside Summit - Pathways to Justice
With Donna as keynote, the 2023 Eastside Summit will highlight various pathways residents can take in order to secure justice and equity for our community. Through a series of panels and interactive workshops, attendees will learn about strategies being used to fight injustice across the city, and build their capacity to use these strategies in their own neighborhoods.
The event takes place this Saturday, December 16th at The Stoudamire from 10:00 am - 2:30 pm, residents have the option to attend both in person and virtually. This year’s keynote speaker is none other than my co-host, Donna Givens Davidson!
For more information on the 2023 Eastside Summit click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
‘NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS’: FOOD PANTRIES SEE SPIKE IN NEED
TWO MEMBERS OF REPARATIONS TASK FORCE RESIGN WITHIN FIRST YEAR
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed Founder and Executive Director of Umoja Debate League, Jerjuan Howard!
Orlando spoke with Jerjuan about how the loss of his grandmother’s home led to the birth of Umoja Village. Born and raised on the Westside, Jerjuan’s close knit community and family roots created the foundation for his deep passion for community engagement and youth development.
Created in 2021, and using debate as a vehicle, the Umoja Debate League provides students with the opportunity to hone their self expression, critical thinking, and conflict resolution skills.
For more information on the Umoja Debate League, click here.
Support Umoja Debate League for Giving Tuesday!
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT HOMEOWNERS CAN GET HELP APPLYING FOR 2023 PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
OVERSIGHT LAW DIDN'T STOP SURVEILLANCE BOOM. ADVOCATES CALL FOR REFORMS
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed Founder and Co-Host of Detroit Is Different, Khary Frazier!
Donna and Orlando spoke with Khary about his journey as a creative and what exactly makes Detroit different. The Detroit is Different podcast aims to expose people to all of the things that make Detroit a cultural mecca. Khary and his co-host, Sterling Toles, use their experiences in art and culture to open up discussions, showcasing the true stories from people shaping the culture of our city.
For more information on Detroit is different, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
WHO WINS WITH NEW INCENTIVES FOR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS?
TAX ASSESSMENT TRANSPARENCY
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This week Authentically Detroit hosted a special live podcast, featuring the team behind CSforDetroit!
Kalisha Davis, Tawana Petty, and Dr. Chanel Beebe joined Donna and Orlando to discuss a newly launched program, committed to ensuring that historically marginalized students have sustainable access to high quality Computer Science learning that is culturally responsive and student-centered. Powered by Kapor Foundation, Google.org, Song Foundation, and CSforALL’s Accelerator Program, this initiative aims to champion lasting transformation in Detroit through deep investment in K-12 computer science (CS) education in partnership with Detroit Public Schools Community District.
For more information on CSforDetroit, https://csfordetroit.org/.
FOR HOT TAKES:
IS IT TIME FOR DETROIT CITY COUNCIL REDISTRICTING?
STUDENT USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SOFTWARE STIRS DISCUSSION IN MICHIGAN SCHOOL DISTRICTS
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed CEO’s Cheryl P. Johnson and Kim Janey of COTS Detroit and EMPath!
Donna and Orlando spoke with Cheryl and Kim about their new practice, Mobility Mentoring! This research-backed, trauma-informed approach seeks to help families achieve economic mobility. This new certification marks the next step in a years-long partnership between the two organizations, which are both dedicated to supporting families as they climb the economic ladder.
For more information on Mobility Mentoring, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
ARTIST SAYS SHE WAS ASSAULTED THIS SATURDAY AT PARAMITA SOUND
MICHIGAN DEMOCRATS BASH CONGRESSWOMAN RASHIDA TLAIB FOR PALESTINIAN COMMENTS
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed Peter Blackmer, Lloyd Simpson, and Antonio Cosme of Voices from the Grassroot!
Donna and Orlando spoke with the trio about the upcoming project, which highlights longtime Black Detroiters and grassroots organizers perspectives on revitalizing the city. The project, started in 2018, seeks to reckon with the lack of representation that leads to a distorted narrative of Detroit’s history along with the voices and vision of its people. Their launch event, commemorating the 10 year anniversary of emergency management’s imposition of democracy in Detroit, takes place Thursday, October 26th from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at Wayne State University.
If you’re interested in attending “Reckoning with Racism, Resistance, and Emergency Management,” click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN DEMOCRATS SPLIT ON ISRAEL, PALESTINIAN SUPPORT
SLAIN DETROIT AREA SYNAGOGUE LEADER 'FOUGHT FOR EVERYONE'
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed Malachi Barrett and Nushrat Rahman of Bridge Detroit and Photographer Sarahbeth Maney.
Orlando, Malachi, Nushrat, and Sarahbeth discussed stories highlighting the housing crisis Detroiters face. One story that stood out is that of Tonya Hogan, a Detroiter who ended up losing her home following the unexpected death of her husband. Tonya represents an increasing portion of the population that finds themselves without a home or at risk of losing their homes. Many people sleeping in abandoned homes, cars, ‘couch surfing,’ etc. go unaccounted for in the official statistics.
For Tonya’s full story and more information on housing in Detroit, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT COUNCIL MEMBER BACKS PLAN TO ELIMINATE PROPERTY TAXES
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed Dr. Kamaria Washington, a physical therapist dedicated to healing Black people through a holistic, full-body approach.
Donna and Orlando first met Dr. K during the inaugural cohort of the Authentically Detroit podcasting class. Her work providing pelvic floor therapy to Black mothers offers a little-known relief to the pain and discomfort associated with pregnancy. Dr. K blends her professional training with a passion for improving the peri-partum experience, mindfulness, community responsibility, and more. Her work is an integral part of the health and wellness wave that’s sweeping our community!
For more information about Dr. K and Pelvic Noire, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
'ANTI-GENTRIFICATION PROJECT' BRINGS HOUSING, GROCERY, AND RETAIL TO ART COMPLEX
FROM SHELTER TO HOME - HOW ONE WOMAN CLIMBED OUT OF HOMELESSNESS
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed former auto-worker, longtime community and labor activist, and board member at the Boggs Center, Richard Feldman.
Together they discussed the historic “Stand Up Strike,” started by the United Auto Workers (UAW). This strike is the culmination of a workers movement that has taken over the United States. As a former auto-worker at one of the striking UAW plants and labor activist, Rich has a wealth of knowledge on the conditions that led to this groundbreaking strike. In the end, the trio expands upon what it will take to achieve true freedom for the working class.
For more information on the Boggs Center, click here!
FOR HOT TAKES:
MEET THE DEMOCRAT BLOCKING MICHIGAN ABORTION BILLS. SHE SAYS SHE'S NOT ALONE
TAX REFORM, TENANTS RIGHTS, BUS DISCOUNTS: WHAT'S NEXT FOR SHEFFIELD'S "PEOPLE'S BILL”
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed Camille Johnson, Director of Development and Communications at the Eastside Community Network (ECN) and Armond Harris, Owner of Jabs Gym.
Donna and Orlando discuss the UAW strike and its implications for Michigan’s financial future. Later on, Camille joins the duo to discuss the 35th annual Eastside Extravaganza taking place this Friday, September 22nd from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at ECN.
Finally, Armond gives a first-hand account of the building collapse that took place over the weekend at the Eastern Market. While no one was injured in the incident, multiple businesses, including Jabs Gym have been devastated by what may have been a preventable tragedy.
For more information on the businesses impacted and how to help, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
UAW -AUTOMAKER STANDOFF PROMPTS WORRIES OVER MICHIGAN'S PLACE IN NEW ECONOMY
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This week Authentically Detroit finally returned from hiatus! Donna and Orlando joined each other inside of the DEEP Network’s podcast studio to catch up on what’s been happening in both of their lives lately.
The two of them discuss the attack on the Stoudamire Wellness Hub and how the Eastside Community Network plans to rebuild and strengthen the community as a result. They also open up about some personal tragedies they’ve dealt with over the past few months and how self-care and community are the key to moving forward.
For those who don’t know, this week is National Suicide Prevention Week. If you or a loved one are in a crisis please call 988 or text TALK to 741741. For more information please, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
EASTSIDE COMMUNITY CENTER SHAKEN AFTER TRUCK RAMMING CLOSE CALL
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This week on Authentically Detroit, Donna and Orlando sat down with Glenn Wilson and Renee Kent of Communities First, Inc. to discuss their work to build a more sustainable Flint!
Founded by Glenn and Essence Wilson, Communities First, Inc. has grown extensively since its inception in 2010. As Flint natives, who are passionate about their hometown, their mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming.
For more information on Communities First, Inc., click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
FALSE ARREST OF DETROIT MOTHER REIGNITES CRITICISM OF FACIAL RECOGNITION TECH
WHY THE MONTGOMERY RIVERFRONT BRAWL IS MAKING BLACK PEOPLE SO DAMN HAPPY
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This week, Authentically Detroit introduces Something Relevant, the inaugural podcast on the Detroit Eastside Engaged Podcast (DEEP) Network!
Donna and Orlando sit down with Daivon Reeder, co-host and creator of the Something Relevant Podcast to discuss the vision behind the show. Vaulted Youth Voices participants Faith and Alex also join the conversation, discussing some of the latest headlines impacting teens in Detroit.
As a special treat, we’ve included Something Relevant’s second episode, “Control,” at the end!
FOR HOT TAKES:
POOR STUDENTS AND BLACK STUDENTS ARE DISAPPEARING FROM MICHIGAN COLLEGES
DETROIT DISTRICT'S DISCIPLINE PROPOSAL WOULD GIVE SCHOOLS MORE POWER TO SUSPEND STUDENTS
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This week, Authentically Detroit sat down with David Alade, Co-Founder and CEO of Century Partners.
Donna, Orlando, and David talk about the housing affordability crisis in Detroit and how we can address it. As CEO of Century Partners, David is committed to community, legacy, and purpose with a dedication to building a culture of sustainable excellence.
Last week, his article in Crain’s Detroit, “Opinion: Now is the time to equitably address Detroit's housing deficiencies,” ruffled a few feathers throughout the city. With affordability in the housing market decreasing and the amount of funding available to address this increasing, David believes these funds should be put to good use.
For more information about David and Century Partners, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT AMONG MOST IMPACTED CITIES IN THE COUNTRY FOR THE URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT
STATE REGULATORS APPROVE SETTLEMENT IN DTE'S ENERGY PLAN. WHAT IT MEANS
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This week, Authentically Detroit sat down with Dr. Christal Lawson, the Founder and Owner of CLE Strategic Solutions, LLC.
Following the unexpected passing of both Reverend JoAnn Watson and Brenda Hill, we thought it would be a good idea to talk about self-care and protecting your spirit during times of grief. Dr. Lawson has been helping individuals, families, and youth heal from their grief and find their life’s purpose for over 27 years. Dr. Watson has learned through her studies and personal experiences how to move from surviving to thriving.
For more information about Dr. Christal and her work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
SEX WORKER SCANDAL ADDS TO FRUSTRATION WITH DETROIT POLICE OVERSIGHT BODY
DETROIT SET TO RECEIVE $210 MILLION FROM LARGEST-EVER MICHIGAN BUDGET
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This week, Authentically Detroit sat down with Kevin Davidson, the Director of Design and Fabrication at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Donna and Orlando spoke with Kevin about the 40th annual African World Festival, taking place in Downtown Detroit at Hart Plaza, July 14-16th. As a 40-year employee, Kevin has had the opportunity to experience every festival since its inception. While recording, Donna and Orlando also learned of Rev. JoAnn Watson’s passing and took the time to honor the life and legacy of the lifelong community activist.
For more information about the African World Festival, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
FEDS CHARGE DETROIT MAN IN APPARENT STRANGULATION DEATH OF WYNTER COLE-SMITH
HILL HARPER DECLARES SENATE RUN IN MICHIGAN, CHALLENGING SLOTKIN
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This week, Authentically Detroit sat down with the Attorney General of Minnesota, Keith Ellison.
Donna and Orlando spoke with Keith about the recent Supreme Court decisions and his new book, Break the Wheel: Ending the Cycle of Police Violence. As Minnesota’s Attorney General, Keith led the decision to bring charges against George Floyd’s murderer, Derek Chauvin. Keith also explains some of the barriers to holding police officers accountable and how we can shift police culture.
For more information about Keith and his work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
COALITION ASKS FEDS TO INVESTIGATE CLAIM THAT THAT DETROIT POLICE HAVE A PATTERN OF MISCONDUCT
U.S. SUPREME COURT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION BAN ALREADY PLAYING OUT IN MICHIGAN
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This week, Authentically Detroit sat down with Doctoral Candidate, Aya Waller-Bey
Orlando spoke with Aya about her research and work around the impact of trauma narratives in college admissions. As a doctoral candidate, her dissertation research examines how Black students make how Black students make sense of narratives constructed in college personal statements and how Black students respond to racialized expectations to narrate trauma in college personal statements.
For more information about Aya and her work, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
INCINERATOR DEMO ON TRACK FOR SUNDAY DESPITE SOME RESIDENT PUSHBACK
FEWER SUMMER SCHOOL OPTIONS FOR DETROIT FAMILIES AS DISTRICT SCALES BACK
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Last week, Authentically Detroit took over the Mackinac Policy Conference!
Donna and Orlando conducted interviews on-site at the conference with some of the state and city’s most influential power brokers. This series is broken up into three parts and as always features candid conversations centering residents’ perspectives on the policies that most impact us!
Part One:
Garland Gilchrist, Lt. Gov., State of Michigan
Leona Holly Medley, Joe Louis Greenway
Angelique Power and Skillman Foundation Youth, Skillman Foundation
Part Two:
Kat Stafford, Associated Press
Nicole Wells Stallworth, Children’s Center
Nancy Kaffer, Detroit Free Press
Part Three:
Portia Roberson, Focus: HOPE
Khalilah Burt Gatson, Song Foundation
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, Wayne County Health Department
Kim Trent, Michigan Department of Labor and Opportunity
Pierre Batton, JP Morgan Chase
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Last week, Authentically Detroit took over the Mackinac Policy Conference!
Donna and Orlando conducted interviews on-site at the conference with some of the state and city’s most influential power brokers. This series is broken up into three parts and as always features candid conversations centering residents’ perspectives on the policies that most impact us!
Part One:
Garland Gilchrist, Lt. Gov., State of Michigan
Leona Holly Medley, Joe Louis Greenway
Angelique Power and Skillman Foundation Youth, Skillman Foundation
Part Two:
Kat Stafford, Associated Press
Nicole Wells Stallworth, Children’s Center
Nancy Kaffer, Detroit Free Press
Part Three:
Portia Roberson, Focus: HOPE
Khalilah Burt Gatson, Song Foundation
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, Wayne County Health Department
Kim Trent, Michigan Department of Labor and Opportunity
Pierre Batton, JP Morgan Chase
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Last week, Authentically Detroit took over the Mackinac Policy Conference!
Donna and Orlando conducted interviews on-site at the conference with some of the state and city’s most influential power brokers. This series is broken up into three parts and as always features candid conversations centering residents’ perspectives on the policies that most impact us!
Part One:
Garland Gilchrist, Lt. Gov., State of Michigan
Leona Holly Medley, Joe Louis Greenway
Angelique Power and Skillman Foundation Youth, Skillman Foundation
Part Two:
Kat Stafford, Associated Press
Nicole Wells Stallworth, Children’s Center
Nancy Kaffer, Detroit Free Press
Part Three:
Portia Roberson, Focus: HOPE
Khalilah Burt Gatson, Song Foundation
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, Wayne County Health Department
Kim Trent, Michigan Department of Labor and Opportunity
Pierre Batton, JP Morgan Chase
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
This week, Authentically Detroit sat down with Founder and CEO of Rebirth, Cheetara Heath
Donna and Orlando spoke with Cheetara about the Non-Profit Organization and her mission to break generational barriers by means of housing and supportive services. A single mother of 5 and formerly unhoused person, Cheetara knows what it means to overcome adversity. Since beginning Rebirth in 2018, she’s purchased multiple multi-family housing units and land to help domestic violence victims and their children.
Those interested in volunteer, sponsorship or investment opportunities can contact Rebirth at rebirthanpo@gmail.com
FOR HOT TAKES:
COVID PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY ENDED THURSDAY, WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR MICHIGAN?
SUSPECT WHO ALLEGEDLY KIDNAPPED AND MURDERED LOCAL NURSE HAS BEEN ARRESTED
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This week, Authentically Detroit is talking about the city’s new down payment assistance program.
At the end of March, Detroit announced the launch of a down payment assistance program aimed at lower-income earners who may be able to afford a monthly mortgage payment but don’t have enough savings for a down payment. Donna and Orlando spoke with David Palmer of DC Palmer LLC about the research and analysis team conducted around this new program.
For more information on the Down Payment Assistance Program, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT'S LAWYER SAYS CITY COUNCIL DOESN'T NEED TO FOLLOW SURVEILLANCE LAW
DETROIT ACADEMY TEMPORARILY CLOSES AMID HIGH RATE OF FLU LIKE ILLNESS
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Authentically Detroit discusses closing the racial wealth gap in the city and beyond.
On this episode, Donna and Orlando speak with Michelle Matthews and Elisabeth Luther of Capital Impact. The four of them discuss Capital Impact’s decision to work more closely with people actually from our city to help close the racial wealth gap. Their Equitable Development Initiative seeks to help local real estate developers of color take a leadership role in redeveloping Detroit’s landscape. This allows projects affecting the community to be led by the communities they impact.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DESPITE VOWS, DEMOCRATS DO LITTLE TO IMPROVE MICHIGAN GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY
DETROIT LAND BANK HOME RENOVATION PROGRAM LEAVES HALF OF BUYERS WITH TAX DEBTS
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Donna and Orlando gathered the youth together for a discussion centering their perspectives on different types of violence in the community. The group’s roundtable talk covers metal detectors inside of schools, gun violence, violence targeting the LGBTQ+ community, and more.
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Authentically Detroit covers the wave of violence seemingly taking over the city and more.
On this episode, Donna and Orlando discuss environmental justice, reparations, and gun violence. Over the last week, there were multiple instances of simple disagreements escalating to gun violence. In one instance, a Detroit man shot two teens and two adults after his food was incorrectly delivered to their home. In another, an Employee was fatally shot after ‘cutting in line’ dispute inside of a Greektown store.
Activists say gun reform law doesn’t do enough for Detroit, but what’s next?
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROITERS RECLAIM EARTH DAY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
DETROIT REPARATIONS TASK FORCE STARTS WITH 'BABY STEPS'
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The gang's all here again!
Orlando returns this week along with journalists Aaron Mondry and Jena Brooker.
Donna and Orlando speak with them about the trucking problem plaguing east siders in Detroit. Aaron and Jena’s investigation found that almost one truck passes through the neighborhood adjacent to the Stellantis auto plant per minute, daily. This poses a serious air quality issue and residents want justice. To read the full story, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HIDDEN MEMO WAS SUPPOSED TO STOP MICHIGAN PRISONERS FROM LINING UP IN THE COLD AND RAIN
BAILIFFS VIOLENTLY CLASH WITH HOUSING ACTIVISTS IN DETROIT TO EVICT A TERMINALLY ILL WOMAN
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This week, Authentically Detroit talks about what’s been on everyone’s mind recently - power outages.
Donna and Jackson Koeppel, Founder and Executive Director of Souladarity, sat down for a discussion about outages and energy justice. The duo outlines issues of affordability and infrastructure as well as DTE’s business model, which drives the issues. Finally, they go over the ways the team at Souladarity tackles these issues and how others can get involved in the fight for energy justice.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DTE FACES LOOMING STORM ON ITS POLITICAL SPENDING AMID OUTRAGE
DETROIT NAMES NEW SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR. WILL HE HAVE ENOUGH SUPPORT?
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This week, Authentically Detroit is amplifying youth voices!
The Vaulted Youth Podcast Program provides youth the opportunity to develop and produce their very own podcasts! This week we introduce The Black Bubble, The Culture Channel, and Black N Smart - original podcasts created by our young people.
FOR HOT TAKES:
COULD $1,200 A MONTH IN DIRECT CASH HELP DETROITERS? THIS GROUP THINKS SO
WHITMER SIGNS RIGHT-TO-WORK REPEAL, PREVAILING WAGE RESTORATION
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Spring has sprung this week on Authentically Detroit!
Orlando sat down with Dr. Eddie Connor, Spokesman for the American Cancer Society, Author, and recipient of The President Obama Lifetime Achievement Award. The two discussed Eddie’s journey as a cancer survivor and among many things, what it means to forgive.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DUGGAN PUTS CRIME ON RESIDENTS - TO THE TUNE OF $700,000
COOLEY HIGH SCHOOL REDEVELOPMENT PLAN REJECTED BY DETROIT SCHOOL BOARD
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This week Authentically Detroit spent 313 Day discussing the housing crisis.
Donna sat down with Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, the stars of HGTV’s Bargain Block, plus Tansley Stearns, President & CEO of Community Financial Credit Union (CFCU). The group discussed Bargain Block & CFCU’s new partnership, which intends to make home buying more attainable for Detroiters!
FOR HOT TAKES:
VACANT HOMES VS. HOMELESSNESS IN CITIES AROUND THE U.S.
STATE OPENS VOUCHER WAITING LIST FOR 61 COUNTIES. WHAT TO KNOW.
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This week Authentically Detroit discusses the importance of on-the-ground philanthropy!
Donna and Orlando sat down with The Gilbert Family Foundation’s Director of Detroit Community Initiatives, Darnell Adams, to discuss how Black Detroiters are leading Dan Gilbert’s $500 million philanthropic pledge to the Detroit community.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN STOPPED OHIO TOXIC WASTE LAST WEEK, BUT WE IMPORT WASTE EVERY DAY
DUGGAN'S $2.6B BUDGET PROPOSAL INCLUDES RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAX CUTS
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This week Authentically Detroit hosted a special live episode with historian Jamon Jordan!
Jamon is the founder of The Black Scroll Network, History & Tours, LLC and currently serves as the official Historian for the City of Detroit. In honor of Black History Month, Jamon discusses Detroit’s history as a center for Black Power beginning during slavery.
FOR HOT TAKES:
ELECTION DENIER KRISTINA KARAMO TO LEAD MICHIGAN GOP, TOPPING TRUMP FAVORITE
JOBS AND PAY RISE, BUT BLACK AND HISPANIC DETROITERS ARE MISSING OUT.
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This week, Authentically Detroit sits down Jeremiah Steen! Jeremiah founded The Steen Foundation, sits on the Board of Trustee's for the Skillman Foundation and is the brain behind Critical Youth Theory. On top of that he is also a student at the University of Detroit Mercy. Learn more about Jeremiah's work here.
For Hot Takes:
Mayor Mike Duggan proposes $156M budget surplus spending to Detroit City Council
Detroit literacy and transportation get big support in Whitmer budget plan
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with author Tinisha D. Brugnone.
She and Orlando discuss her book, Pimpette Chronicles: A Modern Black Woman’s Guide to Dating Safely and Navigating These Mean Streets. Tinisha shares her inspiration behind the book as well as some of her history as a filmmaker.
You can find Tinisha’s novel out now, on Amazon.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN INFLATION RELIEF CHECKS: WHITMER SEEKS $180 PER TAXPAYER
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This week Authentically Detroit sat down with Charity Dean of the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance.
The episode begins with a somber discussion on the murder of Tyre Nichols and the state of policing in Black communities. Donna, Orlando and Charity also discuss the deliberate destruction of Black wealth in Detroit with the construction of I-375 and what constitutes reparations for those impacted. This episode also speaks on the special allowances corporations purchasing land in Detroit, like Hantz Group, receive in comparison to individual residents.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HANTZ TREE FARM FALLS SHORT ON SOLVING EAST SIDE BLIGHT
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This week Authentically Detroit welcomed our new cohort of Vaulted Youth Voices!
This podcasting program geared towards high school students in Detroit gives students the opportunity to develop and produce their own podcast! This week we had Nashae Johnson, Faith Smith, and Jason Dyer join us for a discussion on the importance of using your voice. This compelling conversation gave students the opportunity to express their experience using their voice and what interests them in creating a podcast of their own.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HIGHWAY TOLLS COULD RAISE $1 BILLION TO FIX MICHIGAN ROADS STUDY FINDS. IS IT TIME?
LEGAL SETTLEMENTS HIT 5-YEAR HIGH, WITH DDOT SUED THE MOST
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This week Authentically Detroit celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The episode begins with a quote from Dr. King’s, Letter from Birmingham Jail and hits the ground running from there. Anika Goss of Detroit Future City and Dr. Andre Perry, author of Know Your Price and senior fellow at Brookings Institute, joined Donna and Orlando to discuss the importance of building economic power in Black communities without feeding into the ills of Capitalism. They also discuss the repaving of i-375 and more meaningful solutions to providing reparations.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HOW SHOULD I-375 PROJECT BENEFIT DESCENDANTS OF DISPLACED DETROITERS
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This week Authentically Detroit looks at the justice system.
Donna and Orlando discuss the hiring and subsequent resignation of a formerly incarcerated employee of the Michigan Supreme Court. They also discuss Mayor Mike Duggan’s comments regarding what issues the state government should prioritize. Finally, they discuss President Joe Biden’s increased funding for law enforcement and the record high number of killings committed by police in 2022.
FOR HOT TAKES:
MICHIGAN SUPREME COURT JUSTICE HIRES EX-CON THEN ACCEPTS HIS RESIGNATION FOLLOWING CRITICISM
DETROIT MAYOR MIKE DUGGAN SAYS LAWMAKERS SHOULD TACKLE WATER AND HOUSING BEFORE RESIDENCY RULES
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This week Authentically Detroit returns from winter break!
Donna and Orlando hit the ground running this year starting with a discussion on the I-375 redevelopment committee. Next, they discuss the invisible crisis of youth homelessness and the rising housing epidemic. The duo takes a look at Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s plans for her second term in office and what the implications may be for Detroit. Finally, they get into their plans for the podcast in 2023.
FOR HOT TAKES:
HERE’S WHO MDOT SEATED TO ADVISE ON I-375 PROJECT IN DETROIT
YOUTH HOMELESSNESS AN 'INVISIBLE CRISIS' IN PLAIN SIGHT, PROVIDERS SAY
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This week Authentically Detroit discusses the experience of children with incarcerated parents.
Southeastern graduate and soon to be Mississippi Valley State graduate TJ Edwards has a one-on-one discussion with Orlando about how growing up with an incarcerated parent helped shape his worldview. TJ goes into detail about how ECN’s Vault teen center and participation in football helped him find a healthy outlet for his grief and propelled him to enroll in college.
Last year, TJ dressed up as Santa and passed out gifts to 16 kids with incarcerated parents. If you’re interested in helping TJ pass out gifts this year, please call/text him at 808-940-6287 or follow him on Instagram @nuvoshawn.
FOR HOT TAKES:
CIVIL RIGHTS GROUPS WANT DETROIT TO STOP WATER SHUTOFFS, EXTEND MORATORIUM
CORE CITY ORGANIZES OPPOSITION TO CONCRETE CRUSHING PLANT
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This week Authentically Detroit talks water shutoffs, police violence, and mental health!
Donna and Orlando sat down with the first person to join ECN’s Vault teen center, TJ Edwards. A graduate of Southeastern High School and current senior at Mississippi Valley State University, TJ discusses what led him to take his mental health seriously and how social media distorts people’s perception of the world. The trio also discusses water shutoffs in the city and the police violence epidemic.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT'S MORATORIUM ON RESIDENTIAL WATER SHUTOFFS IS ENDING. WHAT TO KNOW.
FEDERAL JURY SIDES WITH BLACK DETROIT OFFICER IN EXCESSIVE FORCE CASE
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This week Authentically Detroit talks FOIA, right-to-work and equitable access to higher education!
Donna and Orlando sat down with Danielle North of Degree Forward plus Dara Klein and Lawrence Hood of Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences (DAAS). The group discusses Degree Forward and DAAS’ new partnership providing community members with equitable access to higher education and removing barriers that prevent people’s ability to take advantage of these opportunities.
For more information on the partnership, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT PAID $32 MILLION IN LEGAL SETTLEMENTS. HOW MUCH MORE CAN THE CITY AFFORD?
RIGHT TO WORK BATTLE LOOMS IN MICHIGAN: BUSINESSES FEAR REPEAL BY DEMOCRATS
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This week Authentically Detroit takes a look at the city’s jazz legacy!
Donna and Orlando sat down with Kevin Davidson, Director of Design and Fabrication at the Charles H. Wright Museum. They discuss the museum’s latest companion exhibits, “Detroit Jazz: The Legacy Continues” and“Jazz Greats,” plus the future and legacy of the museum itself.
For more information about the exhibits, click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
PROSECUTOR WON’T CHARGE DETROIT OFFICERS IN PORTER BURKS’SHOOTING DEATH
DETROIT TO INVEST $9MILLION IN PARKING LOTS FOR NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESSES
This week Authentically Detroit taps into Gen Z!
Budding Urban Planner Paul Jones III sits down with Donna and Orlando to discuss his vision for Detroit’s transportation system. Together they discuss the issues with having such a car-focused community and how we can expand our view of highway reform beyond the planned remodel of I-375. They also discuss his pandemic project -a re-envisioning of Belle Isle.
For a look at Paul’s vision for highway removal,click here.
FOR HOT TAKES:
DETROIT ISN’T DEDICATING ANY OF ITS COVID DOLLARS TO EARLY EDUCATION. ADVOCATES ARE UPSET.
WHAT BROUGHT DETROIT TO THE POLLS?
This week Authentically Detroit covers the 2022 midterm elections!
The Hot Take of the week comes from The New York Times, Why a Democratic Black City Won’t Have a Black Democrat in the House.
Donna and Orlando also sit down with Danielle Atkinson and Eboni Wells-Taylor of Mothering Justice to discuss Proposal 3, one of the most important items on the Michigan ballot. Then, they switch gears and speak to Dan Arking of Soapbox Detroit on the evolution of the free resource and how it helps citizens engage with local government.
To learn more about Mothering Justice, click here.
To learn more about Soapbox Detroit, click here.
This week Authentically Detroit discusses digital justice, consentful technology and more!
Tawana Petty joins Orlando and Donna to give them the rundown on surveillance, digital justice, and how they impact us as Detroiters. Petty, a convening member of the Detroit Digital Justice Coalition, introduces the podcast to the concept of consentful technology.
In Hot Takes, we go over former President Barack Obama’s visit to Renaissance High School and that now viral comment plus health code violations in Detroit’s restaurants.
FOR HOT TAKES:
BARACK OBAMA RALLIES FOR GRETCHEN WHITMER, SEEKS TO BOOST TURNOUT IN DETROIT
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: HEALTH CODE VIOLATIONS IN DETROIT RESTAURANTS
This week Authentically Detroit talks towing and the connection between Detroit and New Orleans.
Donna and Orlando catch up following Donna’s week-long trip to New Orleans. Dasjon Jordan and Chandra McMillion join them to discuss the purpose behind the trip plus the connection and history of the two unofficial sister cities.
But first, Hot Takes once again covers the unjust parking ticket and towing practices in the city. Believe it or not, after we finished recording Orlando had a towing notice on his car!
If you’re interested in learning more about the recent towing controversies in Detroit, click here.
This week Authentically Detroit talks power, money, and the impact it has on citizens.
Journalist Jena Brooker of Bridge Detroit joins Donna and Orlando to discuss a story she wrote about how one of Detroit’s most powerful families has pushed residents out of an east side neighborhood. This week’s Hot Take also comes out of Bridge Detroit and involves license plate readers and the constitutionality of the way Detroit tows cars.
Finally, the episode ends with a discussion of the city council’s 5-4 vote, expanding funding to ShotSpotter. If you’re interested in reading both articles and learning more about ShotSpotter, click here.
This week Authentically Detroit talks about police violence and the mapping of Detroit.
Anthropologist, Cartographer, and Information Designer Alex B. Hill joins Donna and Orlando to discuss the Detroit Voting Map as well as his book, Detroit in 50 Maps. They dive into gentrification and what goes into naming a neighborhood. In the spirit of the upcoming election, the trio dive into the Detroit Voting Map which shows who’s voting in what neighborhoods.
This week’s Hot Take involves Detroit police officers shooting a 20-year-old man having a mental health crisis 38 times. What happened and how can we better handle these situations as a community? Check out the episode to hear our perspective. To read the full article, click here.
This week Authentically Detroit takes a look at economic fairness as it relates to worker’s rights.
Donna and Orlando sit down with candidate for UAW President, Will Lehman. Will gives a little insight into some of the issues that worker’s face in the automobile industry. He also discusses how his candidacy can help auto workers in Detroit as well as worldwide.
Brandon Hodges, Principal and Founder of Tribe Development also joins the duo for this week’s Hot Take out of Bridge Detroit. Together they discuss the implications of the Downtown Detroit Partnership receiving the totality of funds intended to promote economic growth and improve public spaces.
To read the full article, click here.
Authentically Detroit is still talking about economic fairness in the city!
Donna and Orlando bring last week’s history lesson up to date and discuss the financialization of Detroit. Donna carefully explains the economic processes that led to Detroit’s bankruptcy, plus housing displacement and how they impact Detroiters in the present day.
But first they have a sit down with organizers Juan Carlos Dueweke-Perez and Leslie Anay Vargas López, as well as Jorge Andres Casarez to learn more about Southwest Detroit Restaurant Week.
To learn more about Southwest Detroit Restaurant, click here.
Authentically Detroit is launching a new series on Economic Fairness in the city of Detroit!
Donna and Orlando kick off the series with a discussion on the history of Black Detroit. Donna gives a brief history lesson that gives some background on how Detroit became one the the Blackest cities in America.
The duo also discuss Shot Spotter technology and federal funding announced for the I-375 highway.
Be sure to keep up with the series if you're interested in learning more about the real Detroit!
Hot Takes Link:
IS SHOT SPOTTER EFFECTIVE? DATA ON DETROIT TECHNOLOGY FUELS DEBATE
FEDS TO ANNOUNCE FUNDING TO CONVERT BUSY I-375 TO LOWER SPEED BOULEVARD
Authentically Detroit is back! Donna and Orlando are back in the studio with Kirk Mayes, CEO of Forgotten Harvest.
The trio discuss Detroit’s recent power outages, DTE’s proposed rate hike, and the failure of leadership during the ongoing climate crisis.
This week’s episode highlights the beauty of the African diaspora. In discussing his Jamaican ancestry, Kirk opens up about the connection he’s made to Ghana and his desire to realize his full potential.
If you’re interested in keeping up with Kirk’s journey, head to www.iamkirkmayes.com and sign up for updates!
Hot Takes Link:
DETROITERS OBJECT TO DTE RATE INCREASE AS MANY REEL FROM POWER OUTAGES
Authentically Detroit is taking a two week hiatus! But before we go…
Donna and Orlando return with the two queens, Brenda Butler & Edythe Ford, AKA Queen & Slim. The four of them recap the final results of Michigan’s primary election and discuss what matters most moving forward.
The general election takes place on November 8th.
Hot Takes Links:
A NEW BLACK-WOMAN LED BUSINESS IS FLASH FREEZING DETROIT PRODUCE
DEMS WANTED BLACK ‘CONSENSUS CANDIDATE’ FOR CONGRESS. IT DIDN’T HAPPEN.
Donna and Orlando are back at it again this week with Branden Snyder of Detroit Action. This special episode streamed live on Tuesday night as the election results rolled in.
Other guests include:
Brenda Butler, Edythe Ford, Daivon Reeder, Graig Donnelley, and Miguel Pope
The Michigan Primary Election for the 13th Congressional District is next week!
In honor of the election and to round out the primary candidate series, Donna and Orlando spoke with activist, radio host, and democratic candidate Sam Riddle. Check out the interview to find out more about his progressive platform which seeks to target poverty, racism, and environmental destruction.
The primary election takes place on August 2nd.
With election season right around the corner, Authentically Detroit and Detroit Action joined forces in the 13th Congressional District Candidate Economic Justice Forum. We invited all candidates to a two-part forum where they had the opportunity to explain their ideas around policy.
On this episode, Donna and Orlando sit down with Co-Executive Directors of Detroit Action, Branden Snyder and Jennifer Disla to discuss the forum.
The primary election takes place on August 2nd.
Hot Takes Links:
MONKEYPOX UPDATE:MONKEYPOX CASES GROW TO 13, CDC SAYS
CITY HALTS DETROIT ID PROGRAM,SEEKS NEW VENDOR AMID DATA SHARING WORRIES
Hosted by Authentically Detroit and Detroit Action
Candidates: John Conyers, Sherry Gay-Dgango, Michael Griffe, Adam Hollier, and Portia Roberson
Invitations were extended to all 10 candidates
Hosted by Authentically Detroit and Detroit Action
Candidates: Sam Riddle and Martell Bivings
Invitations were extended to all 10 candidates
Having a place that validates your existence is essential to community building. In order to prepare ourselves for a mutually beneficial future, we must come together and acknowledge the cyclical nature of our world.
That’s the philosophy of art lover, public space activator, and event curator Njia Kai.
On this episode Donna, Orlando, and Nija discuss Charles H. Wright African World Festival’s return to Hart Plaza. Nija gives an in depth look at the festival’s history and its significance to the Detroit community.
The festival’s 39th installment takes place from July 15th-17th.
Hot Takes Links:
Detroit urges calm in response to city’s first monkeypox caseDetroit advocates call for more transparency around city’s new water affordability plan
Amazing things can happen when Black philanthropic professionals across sectors come together to make intentional investments in Black led ideas and projects. Shoutout to Baba Malik Yakini of The Detroit Black Community Food Security Network (DBCFS) and the work they've been doing for years!
This episode, Donna and Orlando sit down with two of Detroit's most respected philanthropic leaders, Meredith Freeman (Max & Majorie Fisher Foundation) and Tosha Tabron (Kresge Foundation) to talk about collaboration, low cost capital, redefining risk, and market indicators. It's a really demystifying conversation!
Hot Takes Story:
Council president floats preferred leaders of reparations task force
Mothering Justice Founder and Executive Director, Danielle Atkinson joins Orlando in the studio to talk about the reversal of Roe V. Wade by the United States Supreme Court and what that could mean for Black women in Detroit. Danielle also chairs the work and policy agenda of Mothering Justice.
Be sure to listen and share with a neighbor and friend.
Hot Takes Story:
ABORTION RULING HEIGHTENS FEAR OVER UNEQUAL ACCESS TO CARE IN DETROIT
Donna and Orlando attended the Detroit Regional Chamber's Mackinac Policy Conference on the beautiful Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan. The theme this year was, "The Business Community's Changing Civic Role in Polarizing Times."
The Mackinac Policy Conference is attended by Michigan's political and corporate power brokers along with executives from nonprofits and philanthropy as well as journalists.
Donna and Orlando got to catch up with Detroiters at the conference to talk about the conference theme, their work, and aspirations.
Charity Dean, Founder of Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance.
Latrice McClendon, Community Marketing Director & Community President at Huntington Bank
Michael Griffie, Candidate for the 13th Congressional seat for the U.S. House.
Donna and Orlando attended the Detroit Regional Chamber's Mackinac Policy Conference on the beautiful Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan.
The Mackinac Policy Conference is attended by Michigan's political and corporate power brokers along with executives from nonprofits and philanthropy as well as journalists.
This episode Orlando is joined by special guest cohost, Stephen Henderson. Stephen is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, Founder and Executive Editor of BridgeDetroit and is the host of WDET's Detroit Today and DPTV's American Black Journal.
The pair caught up with Detroiters at the conference to talk about the conference theme, their work, and aspirations.
Darnell Adams, Director of Detroit Community Initiatives at Gilbert Family Foundation.
Camille Walker-Banks, Executive Director of Detroit LISC.
Antoine Bryant, Director of the city of Detroit's Planning and Development Department.
Kirk Mayes, President & CEO of Forgotten Harvest.
Latisha Johnson, Detroit City Councilperson representing District 4.
Our Candidate series continues! We're working to bring candidates for the 13th Congressional seat to our listeners to ask the questions that no one else is asking! John Conyers joined Orlando and Donna to discuss his candidacy, why he's qualified to represent you, and what he hopes to do if voters send him to D.C.!
Listen and share with friends, especially if they live in the 13th district!
Hot Takes!
Feds Partner with Detroit to reduce gun violence in high-crime neighborhoods
Our monthly series with The Vault Teen Center and Eastside Community Network continues with a discussion about gun violence affecting young lives in Detroit and the nation. The young people interviewed Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib about the realities of they face as young Detroiters.
The Vaulted Youth Voices monthly series is sponsored by the Skillman Foundation. Young people are learning Detroit history, podcasting, producing and the power of narrative to curate podcast episodes. The ultimate goal is to have the young people create and sustain their own podcast on the new Detroit Eastside Engagement Podcast Network.
Our Candidate series continues! We're working to bring candidates for the 13th Congressional seat to our listeners to ask the questions that no one else is asking! Sherry Gay-Dagnogo joined Orlando and Donna to discuss her candidacy, her track in the Michigan state legislature and what she hopes to do if voters send her to D.C.!
Listen and share with friends, especially if they live in the 13th district!
Hot Takes!
2022 Michigan Petition Drives Tracker: What to Know About Election Proposals
Our Candidate series continues! The 13th Congressional race has caught our eye and we're working to bring all 9 candidates to our listeners asking the questions that no one else is asking! Portia Roberson joined Donna and Orlando to discuss her candidacy, her track record in the community and what she hopes to do if voters send her to D.C.!
Listen and share with friends, especially if they live in the 13th district.
Our Candidate series has returned! The 13th Congressional race has caught our eye and we're working to bring all 9 candidates to our listeners asking the questions that no one else is asking.
State Senator Adam Hollier joined Donna and Orlando to discuss his candidacy, his record and what he hopes to do if voters send him to D.C. He also responded to campaign finance misuse allegations by another candidate in the race.
Listen and share with friends, especially if they live in the 13th district.
Our monthly series with The Vault Teen Center and Eastside Community Network continues with a discussion about Detroit's Project Greenlight program and the no snitch culture in many neighborhoods in Detroit. Special shoutout and thanks to Kayla, Johnathan and Nashae for showing up as their authentic selves for this conversation.
The Vaulted Youth Voices monthly series is sponsored by the Skillman Foundation. Young people are learning Detroit history, podcasting, producing and the power of narrative to curate podcast episodes. The ultimate goal is to have the young people create and sustain their own podcast on the new Detroit Eastside Engagement Podcast Network.
Councilwoman Latisha Johnson joins Donna and Orlando to talk about the amended budget that City Council sent to Mayor Mike Duggan that appropriates $2 million dollars for a comprehensive masterplan update.
Noah Urban from Data Driven Detroit (D3) also joins the pair to talk about data democracy in Detroit and the new worker owned cooperative model that D3 is under.
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! CLICK HERE TO ACCESS IT.
Donna Givens Davidson is back with us from bereavement leave! We are so happy to have voice back on the mic! We've missed her so much.
Detroit artist, storyteller, singer and comedian, Satori Shakoor joined Donna and Orlando in the WDET studios in Midtown Detroit. Satori talked about her journey as an artist from being a kid who loved orchestra, being apart of the 'Brides of Funkenstein', founding the Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers and hosting television shows on PBS. She is a national and Detroit treasure. Her mission to help people accept themselves through their stories continues to impact audiences all over the nation.
SURPRISE!
Two episodes in one week! Detroit's Planning Director, Antoine Bryant sat down with Orlando for a one-on-one. The two had a lengthy discussion about the Strategic Neighborhood Fund and a comprehensive master plan update. They also discussed housing policy and home repair, infrastructure investment, flooding, and the split rate property tax proposal in front of City Council.
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY PLEASE! CLICK HERE TO ACCESS IT!
Anika Goss of Detroit Future City (DFC) and Jeanette Pierce from the new City Institute joined Orlando for a conversation about the new DFC Report, "Buying In: Opportunities For Increasing Homeownership in Detroit Through Mortgage Lending" and City Institute's launch on April 21st! The conversation is a beautiful tapestry of intersectional storytelling and the acknowledgement of challenges, wins, and solutions for Detroit.
This is our first recording at the WDET Studios and is produced by Conor Anderson and Jonathan Galloway (JG) of Audio Wave Network.
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY PLEASE! CLICK HERE TO ACCESS IT!
Attorney Tonya Myers Phillips from the Right-To-Counsel Coalition sat down with Orlando to talk about the proposed right-to-counsel ordinance that the Detroit City Council will be taking up in the coming weeks that will benefit low income people.
*DISCLAIMER: During the recording of this podcast episode, it was reported that the Detroit City Council sent a resolution to Wayne County asking to extend the foreclosure moratorium until 2023. Since our discussion, the County has granted that ask.
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY HERE!
HOT TAKES STORIES
https://www.bridgedetroit.com/can-detroit-erase-residential-blight-in-four-years/
https://www.bridgedetroit.com/wayne-county-extends-payment-plan-deadline-for-properties-at-risk-of-foreclosure/
In a new monthly series sponsored by the Skillman Foundation, Authentically Detroit is partnering with the Eastside Community Network and the Vault Teen Center to bring you "Vaulted Youth Voices," where young people who are learning Detroit History, podcast producing, and the power of narrative will curate an episode of our podcast! The ultimate goal is to have the young people create and sustain their own podcast on the new Detroit Eastside Engagement Podcast Network.
Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist is the chair of the Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities, who is released a report today with 14 recommendations to curb disparate health outcomes on racialized communities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic that has laid bare the systemic inequities that has existed in the state fo Michigan. Gilchrist is the first Black Lieutenant Governor in the state's history.
40 year Wright Museum veteran Kevin Davidson joined Donna and Orlando to talk about the legacy of Dr. Wright (Detroit's Baby Deliverer, Lover of Art & History), his relationship with him and the ever expanding Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Kevin who happens to be Donna's hubby who also serves as the Director of Fabrication and Design at The Wright was recently featured on Detroit Public Television's American Black Journal where Orlando interviewed him. You can see the interview here.
Plan your visit to the Wright Museum today!
Black History Month continues as Donna and Orlando honor three women who have dedicated their lives in service to their neighbors and the Eastside.
Happy Black History Month! We kick off Black History Month with a conversation with Dwan Dandridge of Black Leaders Detroit about their new zero interest loan product for Black businesses in Detroit and their grant-a-day program to local Detroit-based nonprofits all February long.
Visit www.blackleadersdetroit.org to learn more!
In a new monthly series sponsored by the Skillman Foundation, Authentically Detroit is partnering with Eastside Community Network and the Vault Teen Center to bring you "Vaulted Youth Voices," where young people who are learning Detroit History, podcast producing, and the power of narrative will curate an episode of our podcast! The goal is to eventually have the young people create and sustain their own podcast on our new Detroit Eastside Engagement Podcast Network.
Kirk Mayes , CEO of Forgotten Harvest sits down for a one-on-one with Orlando to talk about what feeds his addictive love for Detroit, the missional purpose of Forgotten Harvest, the late Marlowe Stoudamire, and what he wants to do next!
Be sure to share with a friend!
Regina Ann Campbell, president and CEO of BUILD Institute joins Donna and Orlando to talk about making Detroit the leader in "inclusive entrepreneurship." It was a phenomenal discussion.
Welcome back! This episode Donna and Orlando welcome back Yusef Bunchy Shakur along with Philadelphia city-builder, Michael O'Bryan to talk about the tendency to conflate trauma with culture as well as the romanticism we carry for experiences that are often times traumatizing to us. We also talked about reimagining public safety!
Listen and share with a friend!
Donna and Orlando welcomes back State Senator Adam Hollier, State Representative Tenisha Yancey and state Capitol reporter for Bridge Michigan, Sergio Martínez-Beltrán.
In 2018, Michigan voters elected to transfer the power of drawing the state’s congressional and legislative districts from the political majority in the state legislature to an independent citizens redistricting commission. The measure was known as Prop 2. Since then, a bipartisan commission of 13 citizens were selected through an application process to become redistricting commissioners.
On December 28th, the commission voted to adopt new state legislative and congressional maps for the state. Some say that Democrats now have a competitive advantage to knocking off the Republican majority. Critics in the community and the legislature say that the new maps marginalize the power of Black voters in Detroit.
A group of 12 Black Detroiters went on an excursion of search of Black Thriving in Paris, France.
Lauren Hood is the founder and executive director of the Institute of Afro-Urbanism and the curator of the trip!
Allen Penniman is a city planner and designer in Detroit who went on the excursion.
Orlando is out this week but Donna has all bases covered.
We close out 2021 in a space of grace and gratefulness with Detroit's Godmother, THEE GAIL PERRY-MASON!
Happy Holidays, Everyone!
See you in 2022.
This week Donna and Orlando had the opportunity to interview one of their greatest mentors in community development, Maggie DeSantis. Maggie was one of the founders of Warren/Conner Development Coalition now known as Eastside Community Network. She served as the President/CEO for 30+ years and was succeeded by Donna in 2016. The organization still serves as breeding ground for amazing talent that go on and do amazing things in the city of Detroit which is why we affectionately call it "Warren/Conner University."
Join us for a fun and candid conversation amongst family that first met
This week Orlando is a co-moderator for the 'Seeking Alignment: Power Building to Equalize the Playing Field for Neighborhoods' forum sponsored by Building the Engine of Community Development in Detroit and the Community Development Advocates of Detroit.
Guests are follows:
Sherita Smith, Cinnaire
Maggie DeSantis, Building the Engine of Community Development in Detroit
Madahavi Reddy, Community Development Advocates of Detroit
Donna Givens Davidson, Eastside Community Network, Authentically Detroit
Darnell Adams, Gilbert Family Foundation
Antoine Bryant, City of Detroit: Planning & Development Department
Danielle Atkinson, Mothering Justice
Jennifer Disla & Branden Snyder, Detroit Action
Angela Reyes, Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation
Molly Sweeney & Arlyssa Heard, 482Forward
Later today, on December 1st, Latisha Johnson will be sworn in as City Council Representative for District 4 Detroit. While Orlando is on a fact-finding trip with colleagues and friends, Donna and Latisha had a wide-ranging conversation discussing her plans, her policy goals, and stances on community issues.
Last week a story collaboration between NBC News and Outlier Media day-lighted a pervasive issue that a lot of Detroiters know all too well. The scam of fake landlords collecting thousands of dollars from vulnerable residents who think they’re paying the true owner of the property or a legitimate property management company.
We're joined by the journalists who reported the story, Aaron Mondry (Outlier Media) and Erin Einhorn (NBC News).
Welcome back! Donna and Orlando are joined by Branden Snyder, Co-Executive Director of Detroit Action to run down the results from Detroit's latest municipal election. The real story is that residents have elected what seems to be a more progressive city council and the trio discusses how that could impact Mayor Duggan's agenda. They are also asking the question of how Detroit can have over 500k registered voters when Census results revealed a total population of 639k residents.
Stories From Hot Takes:
PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS FUELING DETROIT’S NEIGHBORHOOD COMEBACKSDEMOCRAT SHRI THANEDAR SAYS HE WANTS TO MOVE FROM STATE HOUSE TO CONGRESSMSU STAFF FILE SUIT AFTER TERMINATION FOR FAILING TO GET COVID VACCINE
Join Donna and Orlando as they interview a number of elected officials, local political candidates, and resident leaders during their Detroit Election Watch Party and Townhall.
Guests in order of appearance:
Denzel McCampbell, Candidate for Detroit City Clerk
State Senator Adam Hollier
Latisha Johnson, Candidate for District 4 City Council seat
Nicole Small, Candidate for At-Large City Council seat
U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib
Toni McILwain, Ravendale Community President
Coleman Young Jr., Candidate for At-Large City Council seat
Edythe Ford, Engagement Director for MACC Development
Eric Thomas, Chief Storyteller for the City of Detroit
Voters Not Politicians
This episode we are joined Joel Howrani Heeres who serves as the Director for the Office of Sustainability in the Mayor's Office. We talked about how the Office of Sustainability is doing the work to center equity in all of their work, climate change, and much needed investment in infrastructure that touch our neighborhoods and our homes. The Office of Sustainability will be hosting a series of virtual town halls throughout November. Visit www.detroitmi.gov/sustainability to register.
STORIES FROM HOT TAKES
JAMON JORDAN, DETROIT’S UNOFFICIAL HISTORIAN, IS NOW ITS OFFICIAL ONETARGET TO OPEN STORE IN DETROIT AS PART OF 350-UNIT APARTMENT DEVELOPMENT
The Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission is presenting 10 DRAFT maps of newly redrawn state and federal legislative lines. A Michigan State University study says that the current draft maps harm Black voters.
Michigan State Senator Adam Hollier joins us to issue a call to action to voters in Detroit and Southeastern Michigan to raise their voice and concern to the Commission as they are seeking public input in Detroit this week.
We're asking our listeners to get involved. The Commission will be taking public comment from 12-8pm in person at TCF Center or online on Wednesday, October 20th. The public meeting will begin at 1pm. Parking in the TCF garage will be free.
Stories From Hot Takes:
HBCU PENSOLE LEWIS COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & DESIGN GEARED TO SERVE BLACK CREATIVES IN DETROITNEW DETROIT HOME REPAIR PROGRAM CAN FIX 1,000 ROOFS. NEARLY 5,000 APPLIED.
It's our 100 episode celebration!!! This episode we're bringing you the highly anticipated debate between M.L. Elrick and Latisha Johnson for Detroit's District 4 City Council seat. Listen to the two of them debate the issues and make an informed decision at the ballot box.
The November General Election is quickly approaching and some Detroit residents have already received their absentee ballots. Many were surprised to see Proposal S on the back of their ballot and raised concerns about what the proposal's language actually means. The man behind Proposal S, Attorney Todd Perkins, joins us to break down what the proposal would do if Detroiters vote 'yes.'
We went to the Detroit Regional Chamber's Mackinac Policy Conference last week where we had the opportunity to interview three dynamic conference speakers!
Dr. Andre Perry, Senior Fellow at Brookings Institute and Author of "Know Your Price: Valuing Black Lives and Property in America's Black Cities
Dwan Dandridge, Founder & CEO of Black Leaders Detroit
Angelique Power, President/CEO of the Skillman Foundation
Thank you WDET for your amazing partnership!
We're back!
This week, Denzel McCampbell joins us to talk about his candidacy for Detroit City Clerk. He tells us about his vision for the role and how he plans to completely overhaul engagement and education should he win the election on November 2nd.
Here are the stories we included in our Hot Takes segment! As always, thanks for listening!
‘THE SCENE’ REUNION CELEBRATES DETROIT’S DANCE HISTORYSHAHIDA MAUSI, OWNER OF THE RIGHT PRODUCTIONS, CELEBRATES 25 YEARS IN BUSINESSDETROIT COUNCILMAN ANDRE SPIVEY PLEADS GUILTY TO FELONY BRIBERY CHARGE FOR HELP WITH TOWINGMICHIGAN REPUBLICANS AIM TO RESTRICT SCHOOL DISCUSSION OF SYSTEMIC RACISM
Donna and funny man Darryl Earl sit down to discuss his work prior to joining ECN to Direct the Stoudamire Wellness Hub, his career as a professional comedian, and most importantly, upcoming plans for the Stoudamire Wellness Hub, so named after Eastside legend Marlowe Stoudamire.
Shoutouts to:
Orlando Bailey on vacation this week and winner of the Spirit of Detroit award
Darnell Adams for his appointment as Director of Detroit Community Initiatives for the Gilbert Family Foundation (sorry, Darnell for not getting the name of the foundation right).
Teachers and other school personnel.
ECN Staff and Volunteers planning our Homecoming Weekend
Michael K. Williams, an icon and humanitarian whose untimely death moved millions
BridgeDetroit reporters Olivia Lewis and Louis Aguilar joined Donna and Orlando for a discussion of stories they authored last week after the 2020 Census results found that the population in Detroit is still on the decline.
Louis wrote a timeline of major events within the last decade that could help put in perspective why population in Detroit continues to decline.
Olivia wrote a story that amplified some Black Detroiters resolve to stay in Detroit despite inequitable growth in neighborhoods and the heart of the city.
Orlando and Donna also introduced a new segment entitled, "Hot Takes"
Listen in and let us know what you think.
While Orlando was traveling for business, Donna sat down with Sonya Mays, President and CEO of Develop Detroit and Treasurer of Detroit School Board, on Tuesday August 24th, the day BEFORE the FBI searches were announced, to discuss some provocative thoughts about ways to improve political integrity in Detroit.
We also discuss Sonya's work history, community development, bankruptcy, emergency managment and Detroit Public Schools.
Donna is back from her bae-cation!!!
Khalilah Burt Gaston joins Donna and Orlando to talk about the Residents First Fund that grants dollars to grassroots organizations and resident-led projects doing the important work of creating and sustaining thriving communities in Detroit.
In the process of recording this episode, we found out that native Detroiter, television and radio personality, activist and political consultant, Steve Hood passed away. Donna honored her childhood friend.
Fresh Off The Press StoryCENSUS CHANGES MAY SPELL TROUBLE FOR MICHIGAN DEMOCRATS AS REDISTRICTING STARTS
What's up, fam! Donna is still on vacation so Orlando is hosting solo this week! He goes one on one with Detroit Griot and Historian Jamon Jordan. A new historical marker has been erected that acknowledges the old Black Bottom neighborhood in what is now Lafayette Park. Jamon gives us a historical account of Black Bottom and how the process he and others went through to acknowledge the now razed Black Bottom.
FRESH OFF THE PRESS STORIES:
MORE POLICE PRESENCE WON'T SAVE COMMUNITIES. DEFUNDING POLICE WILL.BREAKING DOWN THE REASONS WHY DETROIT VOTERS DIDN'T SHOW UP
Back with another one! Donna is out on a much deserved vacation and Chase Cantrell is seating in the cohost seat!
Architectural Designer Bucky Willis and Afro-Urbanist Lauren Hood join us for a conversation about amplifying audacious ideas from Black folks, designing Black futures and unlearning degradation. The crew also touched on the need for meaningful intersections with artists and community development.
Listen and share with a friend!
Fresh Off The Press Articles:MICHIGAN’S AFFORDABLE HOUSING CRISIS MAY GET WORSE, AS EVICTION MORATORIUM ENDSWAYNE STATE TO REQUIRE COVID VACCINATION, REIMPOSING MASK MANDATE Other References per Bucky's comments:RESEARCHERS STUDYING REPORTED MENSTRUAL CHANGES AFTER COVID-19 VACCINATION
On Tuesday, July 27th, the Detroit City Council approved Mayor Duggan's appointment of Antoine Bryant as the city's newest Planning and Development Director.
Antoine came through to speak with Donna and Orlando for his first interview after since his confirmation. He hails all the way from Houston, Texas by way of Brooklyn, New York with a wide cadre of experiences. He brings academic acclaim and scholarship from the University of Texas and Cornell University. He serves on many national boards and affinity groups including the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA).
Our friend, Chase Cantrell paid us a visit to get in on the fun.
No question was off limits.
Flooding and infrastructure in the city of Detroit is once again taking center stage in today’s conversation. More specifically, Donna and Orlando are asking the question of who should bear the brunt of repairs and recovery from the recent flash flooding Detroit has been experiencing and who should be paying for the prevention efforts to stop this from happening?
Russ Bellant joined the hosts for the conversation. Russ is a Detroiter and a former engineer for the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department.
FRESH OFF THE PRESS STORIESAN EX-DETROIT POLICE CHIEF’S POLITICAL HOPES - AND PENDING LAWSUITSABANDONED 100-YEAR-OLD DETROIT HOME ABOUT TO GET NEW TENANTS: WHO IS MOVING IN
It's an election year for the city of Detroit. This year Detroiters will elect a Mayor, City Council members, City Clerk and possibly vote on a revision to the City Charter. Orlando and Donna hope to talk with candidates running for various. Mayoral Candidate, Anthony Adams joined them to share his vision for Detroit.
FRESH OFF THE PRESS STORIES:
WHAT WILL IT TAKE TO PROTECT METRO DETROITERS FROM BASEMENT FLOODING?FEMA, STATE AGENCIES ASSESSING FLOOD DAMAGES IN WAYNE COUNTY STARTING THURSDAY
Over the weekend, Southeastern Michigan experienced an extreme amount of consistent rainfall up to six inches in some areas. There are many reports of residents dealing with standing water and sewage in their basements. Since Friday, families have been recovering from the torrential downpour and are cleaning out what is left of items that they cannot salvage.
Orlando and Donna spoke with four residents to get their stories on record. They shared of their flood experience and the steps they've already taken toward recovery. Their names are Myrtle Thompson, Tenia Green, Kathryn Douglass, and Jonathan "JG" Galloway. FRESH OFF THE PRESS STORY:MAYOR DUGGAN, GOV. WHITMER SEEK FEDERAL AID TO REIMBURSE DETROITERS FROM FLOOD
This is a special episode celebrating Pride Month! Donna and Orlando hosted Philip Johnson (Donna's son) and Ian McCain to help celebrate but to also have some critical conversation that will educate, grow, and even challenge the listener.
Philip, now based in Los Angeles, is the Founder and CEO of Philaye Films where he serves as the primary showrunner, writer, director, producer and actor.
Ian serves the Senior Manager of Business and Economic Development for Eastside Community Network working primarily toward the upkeep and redevelopment of Mack Ave and its business infrastructure. He is a recent graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy, earning his Master’s Degree in Community Development.
FRESH OFF THE PRESS STORIES AND REFERENCES
GOOD-FAITH LAND CONTRACTS: OXYMORON OR OPPORTUNITY?RACIAL PREDATORY LOANS FUELED U.S. HOUSING CRISIS: STUDYWHY WE NEED REPARATIONS FOR BLACK AMERICANSWHITMER REOPENS STATE: SHE SAYS OUR PURE MICHIGAN IS BACK
This week, Donna and Orlando sat down with the founders of Century Partners, Andrew Colom and David Alade along with their new partner, Shea Whitfield from the hit HGTV Show, "Bargain Block." Century Partners went on the record to talk about the journey of the organization, clear up some misconceptions, and talk about the work they're doing now.
Stories From "Fresh Off The Press"
DETROIT SCHOOLS FOUND A WAY TO ATTRACT TEACHERS: PAY THEM MOREDETROIT MAY STEP UP ITS VOICE IN NATIONAL REPARATIONS MOVEMENTDETROITERS URGED TO WEIGH IN ON HELPING END GERRYMANDERING
It's an election year for the city of Detroit. This year Detroiters will elect a Mayor, City Council members, City Clerk and maybe vote on a revision to the City Charter. Orlando and Donna hope to talk with candidates running for various offices. Daivon Reeder joined them to talk about his run for City Council in District 4.
Fresh Off The Press Stories:
WHY THE REVISION OF DETROIT’S CITY CHARTER IS SO CONTENTIOUSMORATORIUM ON EVICTIONS COULD EXPIRE JUNE 30. HERE’S HOW TO GET HELP.
It's an election year for the city of Detroit. This year Detroiters will elect a Mayor, City Council members, City Clerk, and vote on a revision to the City Charter. Orlando and Donna continues the series with a district 4 wide candidate forum in partnership with Eastside Community Network and the LEAP Coalition Steering Committee.
All of the candidates were present: Ane Bomani, M.L. Elrick, Latisha Johnson, Toson Knight, Daivon Reeder, Virgil Smith, and Ken Snapp.
Over the weekend, the nonprofit think tank, Detroit Future City (DFC) and their Center for Equity, Research, and Engagement released their "State of Economic Equity in Detroit" report. The report is a follow up to the framework they released last October and it uncovers the uneven economic growth that Detroit has experienced especially when you disaggregate the data by race.
Donna and Orlando invited their friend Anika Goss back on the show to discuss key findings in the report.
You can read the full report here.
You can find the Fresh Off the Pressstory here.
This week Donna and Orlando sit down with the amazing Alia Harvey Quinn! Alia is a poet, activist, artist and the executive director of Force Detroit. Alia's work carries the tension of the desire to keep neighborhoods safe but also implementing restorative justice practices in policing.
This episode unpacks Detroit Police Chief James Craig retirement announcement that will take effect June 1st and him revealing that he was a "Republican."
Fresh Off The Press Stories:
Why a successful lawyer became an advocate for Detroit neighborhood development
Detroit to get $330 M in federal aid. Now to figure out how to spend it.
Register and attend Force Detroit's Fund Peace event here.
The latest revision draft of the Detroit City Charter has been making headlines across the city the last few days. Governor Whitmer rejected the draft citing legality issues incongruent to state laws.
What does the Governor's rejection mean? What happens next?
We discuss with Charter Commissioner, Denzel McCampbell and Detroit radio and television personality, Steve Hood.
It's an election year for the city of Detroit. This year Detroiters will elect a Mayor, City Council members, City Clerk, and vote on a revision to the City Charter. Orlando and Donna hope to talk with candidates running for various offices as apart of the new Candidate Series. Toson Knight joined them to talk about his run for City Council in District 4.
Recorded directly after the Chauvin verdict. Donna and Orlando are joined by Pastor Brian Ellison of Church of the New Covenant Baptist Detroit. He happens to be the brother of the Minnesota Attorney General, Keith Ellison who successfully prosecuted Derek Chauvin. Both are Native Detroiters.
They weigh in on the war of words happening between Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib and Detroit Police Chief, James Craig.
Also, the city council race is heating up in Detroit!
Donna and Orlando welcome Deputy Director for Prosperity and Equity and Inclusion Officer for the state of Michigan's Labor and Economic Opportunity Department. Kim also serves on Governor Whitmer's Poverty Task Force.
The Michigan Poverty Task Force recently released their report with 35 recommendations to increase the household income of all Michiganders and to restore the safety net in the state. The Taskforce worked with 14 state departments to come up those policy recommendations under a lens of racial equity. The report can be found here.
Stories we covered.
COMMUNITY ACTIVISTS: A SAFER DETROIT BEGINS WITH THE PEOPLE
MICHGAN PAUSES J&J VACCINE, PROMPTING SCRAMBLE IN THE STATE'S ROLLOUT
Resident leaders Michelle Jackson and Delores Orr join Donna and Orlando to talk about their work with the Lower Eastside Action Plan (LEAP) Coalition.
Michelle Jackson serves as the LEAP Coalition co-chair and is the founder and executive director of Sustainable Community Farms, she is the member of the Chandler Park Neighborhood Association, and she is also the the climate equity organizer at Eastside Community Network.
Delores Orr is a former LEAP Ambassador, she is the co-chair of the Neighborhood Improvement Committee and she also a volunteer with the East Village Neighborhood Association.
They discuss how policy and "good intention" show up on the streets where they reside and lead.
Detroit and the state of Michigan has the highest increase in COVID-19 cases in the country right now. The vaccine push is full affect. So why are the case numbers so high? Have you repeated misinformation about the vaccine? Dr. Maritza McIntyre of StrideBio and Dr. Paul Thomas of PlumHealth DPC join Donna and Orlando to discuss.
A discussion on the Black business landscape in Metro Detroit with Charity Dean, President/CEO of the newly formed Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance and Kimberly Harry, part-owner of Harry's Barbershop on Detroit's Eastside.
Mayor Duggan gave his 2021 State of City Address on Tuesday from the Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) new Mack Assembly Plant on the Eastside.
Community Adovcate Simone Lightfoot and BridgeDetroit Senior Reporter Louis Aguilar join Donna and Orlando to debrief the speech.
It's an election year for the city of Detroit. This year Detroiters will elect a Mayor, City Council members, City Clerk, and vote on a revision to the City Charter. Orlando and Donna hope to talk with candidates running for various offices as apart of the new Candidate Series. Latisha Johnson joined them to talk about her run for City Council in District 4.
All February long, Donna and Orlando are taking the time to honor Black History with Detroit roots. This episode they dove deep in the labor movement in Detroit and how union negotiated for the overall well-being of the community above and beyond their employment contracts. Jerry King, UAW member and President of AFL-CIO Consistency Group founded by Bayard Rustin and A. Philip Randolph and Savana Brewer, Director of Community Organizing and Planning at Eastside Community Network joins the conversation.
All February long, Donna and Orlando are taking the time to honor Black History with Detroit roots. They welcomed Allen Rawls, Trustee Board Member of the Motown Museum and Jawan M. Jackson, Tony & Grammy Award nominee and star of the Broadway smash "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations" to talk all things Motown.
Donna sits down with Detroit Department of Elections Official, Daniel Baxter. Daniel is also the Founder & CEO of the Dr. Ossian Sweet Foundation.
Hosts Donna Givens Davidson and Orlando Bailey take over facilitation duties for the Lower Eastside Action Plan's (LEAP) Community Meeting. They welcomed Detroit City Council President Pro-Tem, Mary Sheffield and Charter Commissioner, Denzel McCampbell to discuss the adoption of the Detroiters Bill of Rights into the city charter and what comes next.
Black History Month is right around the corner and Orlando welcomed food champions Jerry Hebron and Ederique Goudia to discuss A Taste of the Diaspora. It's an initiative that will celebrate Africa's contribution to the American cuisine by showcasing the diverse foods of the African Diaspora. The project will provide monetary support to Black restaurants and farmers hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also discussed:
-Kwame Kilpatrick's release from federal prison after Donald Trump commutes his sentence.
-Detroit City Council's vote to use public funds to countersue Black Lives Matter protestors.
-Former Deputy Mayor, Anthony Adams announces his candidacy for Mayor.
Ahead of the Presidential Inauguration, hosts, Donna Givens Davidson and Orlando Bailey sit down with U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib who represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District.
The Congresswoman discusses the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, safety in D.C., and housing stability in Detroit.
This episode, Donna and Orlando respond to the insurrection at the United States Capitol on January 6th. Former investigative reporter, now candidate for District 4 City Council, M.L. Elrick joins to answer on the record, the critiques that Donna and Orlando gave in the Afrofuturism episode.
Happy New Year! The first episode of 2021 is here. This week, Donna and Orlando welcomed organizer, activist, artist, entertainer, and Afrofuturist, Bryce Detroit.
Bryce shared some of what he's been working on including the "Hood Closed to Gentrifiers" campaign and how Afrofuturism can be the cornerstone for radical imagination in Detroit's neighborhoods.
Be sure to like, comment, subscribe and share!
To round out 2020, Donna and Orlando invited their friends in local philanthropy to talk about the big moments of the year in Detroit and the nation. The crew also looked ahead to 2021 and talked about plans they've been cooking up.
Donna and Orlando are joined by:
Kevin Ryan, Program Officer on the Cities and States Team with the Ford Foundation.
Meredith Freeman, Director of Alignment and Impact Investing with the Fisher Foundation.
Sarida Scott, Program Officer with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
Nathaniel Wallace, Detroit Director with the Knight Foundation
Enjoy!
Donna and Orlando discuss State Rep. Cynthia Johnson and the death threats she has been receiving since a hearing at the state capitol with Rudy Giuliani. Vaccinations conversation is underway and Detroiters are torn on whether they'll take it for many reasons. Detroit mayor, Mike Duggan announced an extension on the water shutoff moratorium the day before he announces his bid for re-election.
A special thankfulness episode recorded right before the Thanksgiving Holiday. No news. No politics. Just food and joy.
Donna and Orlando welcome Khalilah Burt Gaston, CEO of Glide Path Strategies and Yusef Shakur to talk about the intersectionality of Black men and women in the election, the role of Black people in partisan politics and the narrative framing of the relationship Black men have with Donald Trump.
This episode was a tough one to finish because during the recording, news broke that the Wayne Board of Canvassers were deadlocked on certifying the election results in the county which is home to the city of Detroit (America's largest majority Black city), citing unsubstantiated instances of fraud among other things. This revelation rocked Donna and Orlando.
After the recording, the Board of Canvassers took the measure up again and voted to certify the election results after more than 2 dozen people scolded them during the public comment section of the meeting.
For more info: https://www.bridgedetroit.com/gop-canvassers-tried-to-suppress-the-vote-detroit-wayne-county-fought-back/
Donna and Orlando talk all things election with friend to the show, Kat Stafford, race and ethnicity reporter for the Associated Press and Camille Johnson, consultant, creative and vanguard for Black Twitter. Camille is also Donna's oldest daughter.
Donna and Orlando sit down their friend and colleague Anika Goss, Executive Director of Detroit Future City to talk about their latest framework toward reaching true economic equity in Detroit.
Remember to vote on November 3rd.
Orlando is on vacation and Donna is at the helm! She sits down with Detroit Public School Community District board member, Misha Stallworth and Detroit Action's Executive Director, Branden Snyder to talk about elections in Detroit, education and generational gaps.
Donna and Orlando sit down with a coalition of activists pushing for Grosse Pointe Park to open the borders to Detroiters. Graig Donnelly, Bianca Garcia, and Frank Joyce joins them for a spirited discussion about spatial segregation, racism, collaboration and healing.
Donna and Orlando welcomed poet, digital and racial justice activist, Tawana "Honeycomb" Petty. Tawana discusses the Black Lives Matter movement, facial recognition technology and resourcing communities to thrive.
This week Donna and Orlando spoke with Edythe Ford. Edythe is the Director of Community Engagement at MACC Development on Detroit's Eastside. She talks about her love for the Eastside, how a Queen's job is never done, and MACC Development's new 48214 Cares Program!
Orlando and Donna emcee a virtual community gathering in partnership with Eastside Community Network to dialogue with residents about Proposal N. Previous show guests, former deputy mayor Anthony Adams and State Sen. Adam Hollier joined the gathering to offer their varying commentary on Proposal N and to answer questions. Proposal N will be on the November ballot in Detroit.
For more information on how you can vote in November’s election, click here.
Ahead of the Breonna Taylor decision, Donna and Orlando spoke to the organizers of Detroit's newest initiative aptly entitled "Black Women Lead." The initiative aims to celebrate and amplify Black women in Detroit leading on every level. The episode is a celebration of sisterhood, enduring leadership, and the magic that is the Black woman.
The day after the recording, the Kentucky Attorney General informed the nation that Breonna Taylor's murderers will go uncharged. We're so tired.
Black women we see you, we love you.
Get Lillian's book at lillianlincolnlambert.com
Subscribe to Black Women Lead updates at blackwomenleads.com
This episode we are joined by former Deputy Mayor under Kwame Kilpatrick, Anthony Adams. Adams shares his vision on racial justice, defunding police, and creating equitable economies in the city of Detroit.
This episode we are joined by State Senator Adam Hollier who represents the 2nd District in the Michigan Senate which includes parts of Detroit, Highland Park, Grosse Pointe and Hamtramck. We discuss his stance on hot issues, some of his controversial votes and his legislative policy agenda moving forward.
Donna is back from her BAEcation and honeymoon! We're joined by Donna's husband Kevin and they tell of their amazing love story. Donna and Kevin's love gives us all the feels and hope!
Donna is still off on vacation so Orlando sat down with Detroit Group Executive of Housing, Planning and Development to talk about the new state fairgrounds redevelopment proposal, Proposal N (appearing on the November ballot in Detroit), and how to hold him accountable as a public servant. Jemison also gives his reaction to Senator Kamala Harris being the presumptive Democratic nominee for Vice-President.
Glossary of terms:
PDD: Planning and Development Department
DEGC: Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
DLBA: Detroit Land Bank Authority
HRD: Housing and Revitalization Department
GSD: General Services Department
HUD: Housing and Urban Development
DPD: Detroit Police Department
SNF: Strategic Neighborhood Fund
DDA: Downtown Development Authority
DON: Department of Neighborhoods
Donna is off for most of August so Orlando is navigating the ship solo! Orlando welcomed back Jermaine Ruffin from Detroit's Housing and Revitalization Department and "The Streets Are Planning" podcast in lieu of a recent article he penned in Medium aptly titled, "For Those Who Love the Built Environment: Anxiety of a Black Urban Planner. Allen Penniman, urban planner and designer in Detroit's Planning and Development Department joins the conversation as well.
Donna and Orlando sit down with sitting Wayne County Treasurer, Eric Sabree to discuss the recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling - Rafaeli v. Oakland County - the impact on Wayne County, Tax Foreclosure Policy and Practices, and the upcoming August 4th election.
Donna and Orlando welcome Officer Dani Woods of the Detroit Police Department (DPD) who serves as the LGBTQ Liaison Officer for the force to talk about DPD's relationship with the community. Chase Cantrell, recovering attorney and executive director of Building Community Value joins the coversation to talk about the latest iteration of Mayor Duggan's neighborhood improvement proposal.
Donna and Orlando welcomes Yusef Shakur and Teferi Brent to give their perspectives on the state of police and community relations in the city of Detroit given recent police involved incidents.
On the heels of cell phone video surfacing that shows a police vehicle driving through protestors in southwest Detroit, Orlando and Donna talk with local activist, Tristan Taylor to hear his take from on-the-ground. Tristan joins live from the daily protests he leads.
It's a cross-city exchange! City Administrator for D.C. Rashad Young joins us to talk about the new Black Lives Matter mural on what was formally 16th ST. but is now known as Black Lives Matter Plaza. Rashad responds to activists demands and shares his learning to what is happening in cities like Detroit, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis.
Orlando and Donna welcomes special guests, Rochelle Riley, director of the City of Detroit Office of Arts and Culture and Neil A. Barclay of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History to discuss arts and culture in Detroit.
"The truth is that as much democracy as this nation has, it has been borne on the backs of Black resistance."
-Nikole Hannah-Jones
Black resistance is in happening in cities all over the United States including America's largest majority Black city, Detroit. Protestors by the thousands have flooded the streets of Downtown Detroit and nearby neighborhoods to express dissent with a system that has allowed for the habitual killings of Black men and women mostly without repercussions.
This week Donna and Orlando are joined by Victoria Burton-Harris, candidate for Wayne County Prosecutor and Yusef Bunchy Shakur, noted author and co-director of programs at the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion for a discussion and fresh take on what's happening on the streets of Detroit and if a reckoning is currently underway in America.
Orlando's got a new gig at BridgeDetroit! His new boss, Stephen Henderson and his colleague Catherine Kelly came on to tell us all about the newest journalism and engagement organization in town!
We can't believe it's been a year since we got started! We invited two people who have played a key role in the content that we've discussed over the past year to celebrate with us! We are all Authentic Detroiters! Enjoy!
We had a conversation about what's actually happening in the prison system in the state of Michigan. The Detroit Free Press released and article detailing a class-action lawsuit that the Michigan Department of Corrections is facing because of its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 1,400 inmates have contracted the coronavirus in Michigan prisons.
A conversation about white privilege in the age of COVID-19 pandemic. What does it mean to be white? How does the abuse of white privilege show up in Detroit? What do we do about it?
Detroit has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. There is an overwhelming amount of loss, trauma and grief that pervades in our city. No matter what your status is in Detroit, you've somehow been affected by this virus. It's a dark time with seemingly no expiration date but in this episode we wanted to provide a glimmer of light, hope and levity in this new reality that we've all been thrusted in. Pastor Sonny Smith of Detroit Church, Sherita Smith of Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation and Yodit Mesfin Johnson joined us to talk about the role of faith, hope, healing, and inspiration during this dim chapter in our lives.
**THIS EPISODE WE ARE HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND DETROIT CHAMPION, MARLOWE STOUDAMIRE. MARLOWE APPEARED MANY TIMES ON AUTHENTICALLY DETROIT AND WE HAVE PUT TOGETHER AN EPISODE FULL OF “MARLOWE-ISMS.” THINGS THAT ONLY MARLOWE CAN SAY IN HIS VERY “MARLOWE” WAY.
NOTHING ABOUT THIS COVID-19 PANDEMIC IS NORMAL. OUR NORMALCY HAS BEEN STRIPPED FROM US, AS WERE THE TRADITIONAL WAYS WE’VE GRIEVED, GATHERED AND COMFORTED EACH OTHER.
OUR HEART WEEPS FOR MARLOWE’S WIFE AND CHILDREN, HIS FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES, AND THE CITY OF DETROIT AT-LARGE. LOSING MARLOWE AND SO MANY OTHERS IS HARD AND THE TRAUMA AND GRIEF IS PALPABLE. WE ARE ANXIOUS TO PUT TOGETHER THE FRAGMENTS OF WHAT IS LEFT AFTER THIS CRISIS AND BEGIN HEALING.
WE HOPE THAT WHEN YOU LISTEN TO THIS COMPILATION EPISODE THAT YOU’LL FEEL MARLOWE’S SPIRIT AND BE COMFORTED IN SOME WAY. THIS EPISODE WE REMEMBER AND COMMEMORATE THE WORK, THE ADVOCATE, THE CHEERLEADER, THE FATHER, THE HUSBAND, THE LIFE OF ONE OF THE MOST AUTHENTIC DETROITERS WE KNOW… MARLOWE STOUDAMIRE.**
COVID-19 has made its way to Detroit. What do we do? How do we slow the spread? Is government responding in an equitable way? This episode Donna and Orlando spoke with Kim Trent, Deputy Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity in charge of Prosperity and Ned Stabeler, President/CEO of TechTown Detroit to get their perspectives.
On this special episode, Donna and Orlando speak with former Detroit Director of Health, former Michigan Gubernatorial Candidate, CNN Political Analyst, and Author, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed concerning the COVID-19 pandemic and America's response. Donna and Orlando also spoke to Chief Medical Officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections, Professor and Assistant Dean at Wayne State University Medical School, and member of the State of Michigan’s Coronavirus Task Force, Dr. Carmen McIntyre!
This week we were joined by Ederique Goudia, owner of the new Gabriel Hall restaurant coming to West Village, Rafa Wright, serial entrepreneur and the owner of Neighborhood Grocery, and Kwaku Osei-Bonsu, founder of Black Metro Eats and Detroit's Black Restaurant Week. We had a conversation about food equity, food apartheid, public health, and black owned grocery stores and restaurants in Detroit.
This week we were joined by Michigan State Representative Sherry Gay-Dagnogo to talk about her visit to the White House to hand deliver a letter requesting President Trump to pardon former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick who is currently serving out a 28-year sentence in federal prison. We even asked her about her plans to "maybe" run for Mayor of Detroit. We were also joined by ECN staff members Angela Wilson and Dillon Brown to talk about their work to ensure everyone on the Eastside is counted in the 2020 Census!
This week we sat down with Maggie DeSantis who is the Initiative Manager of Building the Engine of Community Development in Detroit. We talked about the state of community development work in Detroit and learned about the work she has been leading to create a sustainable system for community development work in Detroit.
Donna is back! This week we sat down with Kevin Ryan of the Ford Foundation and Meredith Freeman of Fisher Foundation to talk about how philanthropic institutions show up in Black cities like Detroit. Who's at the board table, who is in c-suite, who gets to make the decisions? We asked all of the juicy questions you've always wanted to ask to demystify the philanthropic world.
Donna we missed you! This episode Orlando sat down with Kalisha Davis of the Detroit Historical Society and Andrew Colum, filmmaker and principal at Century Partners to talk about how they are collaborating to honor the legacy of Dr. Ossian Sweet this Black History Month!
The City of Detroit has a new Chief Storyteller and his name is Eric Thomas!. We spent this episode speaking with our friend Eric talking about his tumultuous journey to finally obtaining his dream job!
Authentically Detroit is live at Co.Act Detroit in partnership with Urban Consulate to talk about Orlando's globetrotting experience traveling across the world to Europe as a Marshall Memorial Fellow (MMF) with the German Marshall Fund of the United States. He is joined by Yodit Mesfin Johnson, CEO of Nonprofit Enterprise at Work who was also apart of the Detroit Delegation last Fall. Yodit and Orlando share their experiences being recent Fellows with veteran MMF alums Marlowe Stoudamire, Founder of Roster Detroit and Kirk Mayes, CEO of Forgotten Harvest! This conversation is one for the books!
This episode we sat down with Gary Anderson, Founder of Plowshares Theatre who just celebrated their 30th organizational anniversary last year and is the only professional African American Theatre company in Michigan. Michael Rafferty, CEO of New Detroit Inc. and Lauren Hood who is the new Program Director also joined us!
This is part two of the special episodes dedicated to the property tax foreclosure crisis in Detroit. This episode we sit down with Christine MacDonald of The Detroit News. Christine co-authored a compelling article entitled " Detroit homeowners overtaxed $600 million" and the report "Pay owners who lost homes to "illegal" Detroit foreclosures."
This is part one of two special episodes dedicated to the property tax foreclosure crisis in Detroit. This episode we sit down with the amazing Bernadette Atuahene from the Coalition To End Unconstitutional and Professor of Law at Chicago-Kent College of Law. She shares her research in Detroit and how she used that research as an impetus to do real intervention work in Detroit and the state of Michigan.
This episode Donna and Orlando sat down with Candice Fortman of Outlier Media, Kat Stafford and Branden Hunter of the Detroit Free Press to talk shop!
Happy Birthday to Candice!
We sat down with Marlowe Stoudamire to talk the newly formed Roster Detroit! Dwan Dandridge also joined us to talk about the Black Leaders Detroit Fund!
A Detroit newsroom just got Blacker. Two Detroiters just released a sneaker with Puma. Wayne State Board of Governors gotta get it together. Donna and Orlando are slap happy. Just enjoy the ride.
This episode, Donna & Orlando sat down with State Senator Stephanie Chang and Detroit Free Press Investigative Reporter Kat Stafford to unpack the latest in the Blight Bond saga and what should happen next!
Eric Thomas from Saga Marketing joins Donna Givens in Orlando's absence in a wide-ranging conversation about race, blame, accountability and forgiveness. Who gets grace in our culture and why is it so one-sided? Also Eric shares why he hates Detroit's systems but loves the people. #authenticallydetroit #forgiveness #amberguyger #whyihatedetroit #racism
We're back! Did you miss us? Well we missed you guys! Catch this week's #FreshOffThePress stories! We also sat down with Joel Howrani Heeres, Director of Sustainability for the city of Detroit in the Mayor's Office and Richard "Ricky" Ackerman, Director of Climate Resilience for Eastside Community Network (ECN) to talk shop about the Detroit Sustainability Action Agenda and ECN's plans for a more resilient Eastside and government and corporate responsibility.
Donna and Orlando have so many questions and points to make in the episode! They first put Detroit's Group Executive of Planning & Housing Development, Arthur Jemison in the hot seat to talk about his vision for planning in Detroit, single family rehab & development and partnering with community development organizations. Greg Bowens also joins the pair to clarify his words in the Deadline Detroit article that was discussed Episode 6!
Donna and Orlando are at it again with their hot take commentary on the news in Detroit with their "Fresh Off The Press" segment! The thematic topic for this episode poses the question of "Who Gets To Represent Detroit?"
This episode Donna and Orlando are joined by Jermaine Ruffin from @thestreetsareplanning podcast to weigh in on news items in our 'Fresh Off The Press' segment and talk planning and development in the city of Detroit!
This episode ran long but it's so good! This week, Orlando sat down with U.S. Representative for the 13th Congressional District, Rashida Tlaib to talk impeachment, tweets, debates, policy and climate and economic justice. The interview with the Congresswoman begins at 1:02:30.
We sit down with AfroFuture Fest Site Host, Myrtle Thompson of Feedom Freedom Growers to get her side of this story making waves in Detroit and across the nation!
Donna & Orlando give their take on the latest news stories with an extended "Fresh Off the Press" segment. They're joined by their producer and owner of Audio Wave Network JG!
The First Episode of Authentically Detroit powered by Eastside Community Network. Meet the hosts, Donna Givens and Orlando Bailey and and their views of the current happenings in Detroit!