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American Black Journal Episode List

5/16/23: American Black Journal – Small Business Workshop, Passing Strange musical, De’Sean Jones & Urban Art Orchestra

5/16/23: American Black Journal – Small Business Workshop, Passing Strange musical, De’Sean Jones & Urban Art Orchestra

“American Black Journal” examines the impact of rising inflation and a looming recession on small businesses with The LEE Group ahead of its ninth annual Small Business Workshop. Then, a look at Detroit Public Theatre’s production of the Tony Award-winning rock musical “Passing Strange.” Plus, a performance by saxophonist De’Sean Jones, accompanied by the Urban Art Orchestra.

2/14/23: American Black Journal – Black History Month at The Wright, Sphinx Organization 25th anniversary, Sphinx Competition 2023

2/14/23: American Black Journal – Black History Month at The Wright, Sphinx Organization 25th anniversary, Sphinx Competition 2023

“American Black Journal” shares the events being held at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for Black History Month. The show explores how the Sphinx Organization has empowered minority classical string players and has diversified classical music. Plus, hear a performance from Sphinx Competition 2023 senior division winner, violinist Njioma Grevious.

11/22/22: American Black Journal – DEI workplace efforts, Ebiara Fund for minority developers

11/22/22: American Black Journal – DEI workplace efforts, Ebiara Fund for minority developers

Two years after the murder of George Floyd, where do diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) commitments from businesses stand today? “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson explores the state of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. Plus, Henderson gets details on the new Ebiara Fund to help eliminate systemic barriers for emerging minority real estate developers in Detroit.

11/01/2022: American Black Journal – Detroit’s home repair crisis and its impact on residents, neighborhoods

11/01/2022: American Black Journal – Detroit’s home repair crisis and its impact on residents, neighborhoods

American Black Journal teams up with BridgeDetroit for a special episode examining the great need for home repairs in Detroit. BridgeDetroit reporter Malachi Barrett talks with residents about the barriers in obtaining financial support. Plus, Stephen Henderson hosts a panel discussion on Detroit’s home repair program, years in disinvestment, and the impact it’s having on the city’s neighborhoods.

10/25/22: American Black Journal – The Black church’s role in Black politics

10/25/22: American Black Journal – The Black church’s role in Black politics

Ahead of the 2022 midterm elections, “The Black Church in Detroit” series examines the political power of the Black church. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony and Rev. Charles E. Williams II about the church’s role in getting people to vote, its influence on key issues like voter suppression, representation in Congress, and prominent political leaders who came from the Black church.

10/18/22: American Black Journal – DPSCD Supt. Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Forgotten Harvest’s CEO Kirk Mayes, Detroit’s Black fraternities & sororities

10/18/22: American Black Journal – DPSCD Supt. Dr. Nikolai Vitti, Forgotten Harvest’s CEO Kirk Mayes, Detroit’s Black fraternities & sororities

Detroit Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti discusses the district’s COVID recovery, plans for $700 million in ARPA funds, and student outcomes. Forgotten Harvest CEO Kirk Mayes announces his resignation and shares his accomplishments there and future plans. Plus, City of Detroit Historian Jamon Jordan takes viewers on a tour of Detroit’s historic Black fraternity and sorority houses.

10/11/22: American Black Journal – Black Midwest Symposium, Detroit Artists Market, State of the Hood Summit

10/11/22: American Black Journal – Black Midwest Symposium, Detroit Artists Market, State of the Hood Summit

“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson learns more about the 2nd biennial Black Midwest Symposium coming to Detroit Oct. 20-22, 2022. The Detroit Artists Market celebrates its 90th anniversary with a new, multigenerational exhibit. Plus, the State of the Hood summit on Detroit’s east side brings civic leaders and community activists together to explore solutions for stopping gun violence.

10/04/22: American Black Journal – Making Black America Documentary, Black Fraternities and Sororities

10/04/22: American Black Journal – Making Black America Documentary, Black Fraternities and Sororities

Host Stephen Henderson talks with “Making Black America” documentary producer and director, Stacey Holman, about the creation of Black organizations and social networks and how Black people have remained resilient and joyful even amid struggles. Plus, excerpts from Detroit Public TV and WDET-FM’s “Making Black Detroit” Town Hall on the importance of Detroit’s Black fraternities and sororities.

9/27/22: American Black Journal – The Black Church in Detroit | Seminary education and the future of ministry

9/27/22: American Black Journal – The Black Church in Detroit | Seminary education and the future of ministry

“American Black Journal” continues its series on “The Black Church in Detroit” with a look at the state of seminary education and the future of ministry in Detroit. Host Stephen Henderson talks with seminary leaders and students about the importance of seminary education, the challenges of leading an urban-centered ministry, and how seminaries must stay relevant in today’s changing landscape.

9/13/22: American Black Journal – Reducing Gun Violence

9/13/22: American Black Journal – Reducing Gun Violence

This week, American Black Journal exa the efforts in Detroit to reduce gun violence and crime. We’ll take you to this year’s “Silence the Violence” march on Detroit’s east side. Then, host Stephen Henderson talks with the director of FORCE Detroit, a non-profit focused on building a safer Detroit. Plus, we’ll air a portion of Mayor Mike Duggan and Police Chief James White’s conversation with Stephen at the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference, focusing on gun violence, crime and policing in the city.

8/30/22: American Black Journal – The Black Church in Detroit Roundtable on Youth

8/30/22: American Black Journal – The Black Church in Detroit Roundtable on Youth

Have today’s youth fallen out of their faith and belief in religion? “American Black Journal” continues its “Black Church in Detroit” series with a look at the Black Church as a center of solutions for the community, especially as it relates to issues surrounding youth. Two Detroit pastors discuss how youth feel about religion, the importance of making church relevant to them, and how the church can intervene in the cycle of violence involving young people.

8/23/22: American Black Journal – ‘Ain’t Too Proud’ Musical, WGPR-TV 62 Fundraising Gala

8/23/22: American Black Journal – ‘Ain’t Too Proud’ Musical, WGPR-TV 62 Fundraising Gala

The award-winning musical “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations,” has arrived in Motown, where it all began for the five singers. Plus, sports journalist Stephen A. Smith and WGPR-TV 62 Historical Society President Joe Spencer talk about an upcoming fundraising gala celebrating the legacy of WGPR-TV 62, America’s first Black-owned television station.

8/16/22: American Black Journal – Reparations: What Is Owed to Black Americans?

8/16/22: American Black Journal – Reparations: What Is Owed to Black Americans?

Host Stephen Henderson revisits highlights from American Black Journal and BridgeDetroit’s reparations town hall with special guests Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson, Lauren Hood, Andre Perry and Keith Williams. The group discuss what reparations are owed to Black Americans and what form they should take. Plus, Hood and Williams share information about a new Detroit task force to explore reparations.

8/09/22: American Black Journal – Detroit Jazz Festival Returns In Person for 2022 Labor Day Weekend

8/09/22: American Black Journal – Detroit Jazz Festival Returns In Person for 2022 Labor Day Weekend

After two years of virtual performances, Detroit Jazz Festival, the annual Labor Day weekend tradition is planning to return to live, public performances in downtown Detroit for its 43rd festival season. “American Black Journal” gets the full scoop from festival artistic director Chris Collins. Plus, a sneak peak into jazz violinist Leslie DeShazor’s inaugural solo performance, and the support provided to the festival by Central Michigan University.

7/19/2022: American Black Journal – Domestic Violence Calls Increase, Detroit Summer Jobs Program

7/19/2022: American Black Journal – Domestic Violence Calls Increase, Detroit Summer Jobs Program

Domestic violence calls have increased during the pandemic, but what’s behind the rise? Host Stephen Henderson talks with HAVEN of Oakland County to find out why we’re seeing an uptick in the number of victims seeking help and how Black women have been disproportionately affected. Plus, Stephen catches up with the City of Detroit’s ‘Grow Detroit’s Young Talent’ summer jobs program for more on what’s in store for youth and employers this season.

7/05/22: American Black Journal – Overturning Roe V. Wade, MRCC Training Center, African World Festival

7/05/22: American Black Journal – Overturning Roe V. Wade, MRCC Training Center, African World Festival

This week, American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson examines the impacts that overturning Roe V. Wade will have on Black women’s health and medical decisions. Then, producer AJ Walker takes viewers to the ribbon cutting of a new Michigan Regional Chamber of Carpenters and Millwrights training center in Northwest Detroit. Plus, the Charles H. Wright Museum’s African World Festival returns this year, but to a new location. American Black Journal gets an update from Festival Director Njia Kai about this year’s activities.

6/28/22: American Black Journal – Gospel Music in the Black Church

6/28/22: American Black Journal – Gospel Music in the Black Church

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series takes a look at the history of negro spiritual folksongs and gospel music in the Black Church. Producer AJ Walker learns more about how gospel music grew out of negro spirituals created by enslaved Africans. Then, host Stephen Henderson hears about the connection between gospel and blues music. Plus, a look at some of the past gospel performances featured on the show.

6/21/22: American Black Journal – Reducing Gun Violence and Crime in Communities of Color

6/21/22: American Black Journal – Reducing Gun Violence and Crime in Communities of Color

This week, American Black Journal exa the efforts in Detroit to reduce gun violence and crime. We’ll take you to this year’s “Silence the Violence” march on Detroit’s east side. Then, host Stephen Henderson talks with the director of FORCE Detroit, a non-profit focused on building a safer Detroit. Plus, we’ll air a portion of Mayor Mike Duggan and Police Chief James White’s conversation with Stephen at the 2022 Mackinac Policy Conference, focusing on gun violence, crime and policing in the city.

6/14/22: American Black Journal – Juneteenth Celebration, BLAC Policy Recommendations, ‘Boys Come First’ Novel

6/14/22: American Black Journal – Juneteenth Celebration, BLAC Policy Recommendations, ‘Boys Come First’ Novel

This week, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History CEO Neil Barclay joins host Stephen Henderson to talk about how the museum plans to celebrate Juneteenth. Then, a conversation about 11 new policy recommendations just released by the Black Leadership Advisory Council on reducing racial equity gaps in Michigan. Plus, in recognition of Pride Month, producer AJ Walker talks with journalist Aaron Foley about his first novel, “Boys Come First,” a story of three gay Black friends in Detroit.

6/07/22: American Black Journal: Midwest Invitational Rodeo, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, Trumpeter Kris Johnson

6/07/22: American Black Journal: Midwest Invitational Rodeo, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, Trumpeter Kris Johnson

“American Black Journal” explores a part of Black history rarely told. Guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes talks with Midwest Invitational Rodeo about the rich cultural history of the Black rodeo. Plus, producer AJ Walker reports on the new Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park on Detroit’s West Riverfront. And Grammy-nominated trumpeter and composer Kris Johnson performs an original song.

5/31/22: American Black Journal – Mental Health Awareness in the Black Church

5/31/22: American Black Journal – Mental Health Awareness in the Black Church

“American Black Journal” continues its “Black Church in Detroit” series with a candid conversation about mental health in the Black church. Guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes examines the Black church’s role in helping congregants with mental health issues and why it’s important for pastors to practice self-care too. 

5/23/22: American Black Journal – Buffalo Grocery Store Shooting, Cost of Water for Communities of Color

5/23/22: American Black Journal – Buffalo Grocery Store Shooting, Cost of Water for Communities of Color

Another racially motivated shooting has rocked Black America. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Detroit Branch NAACP President Rev. Wendell Anthony about the tragic mass shooting in Buffalo, NY that killed 10 African Americans and injured 3 others. Plus, Stephen looks at the rising cost of water and its impact on communities of color with We the People of Detroit co-founder Cecily McClellan and Wayne State law professor Peter Hammer.

5/17/22: American Black Journal – Mental Health Awareness Month, COVID in Michigan

5/17/22: American Black Journal – Mental Health Awareness Month, COVID in Michigan

For mental health awareness month, “American Black Journal” looks at the pandemic’s impact on mental health services and other existing barriers to mental health access, education and awareness in the Black community. Plus, from mask mandates to vaccines and positive case rates, where does MIchigan stand in the fight against COVID-19 today?

5/10/22: American Black Journal – Bookstock Returns, MOCAD Spring Exhibit, Aaron Lewys Performs

5/10/22: American Black Journal – Bookstock Returns, MOCAD Spring Exhibit, Aaron Lewys Performs

This week, “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson hears about the return of Bookstock, the Detroit-area’s largest used book and media sale, from the charitable event’s organizers and beneficiaries. Producer Eden Sabolboro explores a new spring MOCAD exhibit and the works of Detroit artist Sterling Toles. Plus, singer Aaron Lewys performs his original song “Stop Wasting My Time.”

5/03/22: American Black Journal – Police Reform and Patrick Lyoya, Davóne Tines Portrays Malcolm X

5/03/22: American Black Journal – Police Reform and Patrick Lyoya, Davóne Tines Portrays Malcolm X

Host Stephen Henderson leads a roundtable with Greater Grand Rapids NAACP President Cle Jackson and Black Lives Matter Detroit Co-founder John Sloan III about the fatal shooting of African immigrant Patrick Lyoya by a white police officer. Plus, Stephen talks with bass-baritone Davóne Tines about his role in portraying Malcolm X in Detroit Opera’s “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X.”

4/26/22: American Black Journal – The Black Catholic Church in Detroit

4/26/22: American Black Journal – The Black Catholic Church in Detroit

“American Black Journal” continues its series The Black Church in Detroit with an examination of the impacts and contributions Black Catholics and parishes have made in Detroit. Host Stephen Henderson and producer AJ Walker will explore the history of the Black Catholic Church, its support during the civil rights movements and its focus on equal rights and racial justice.

4/12/22: American Black Journal – The Role of Pastors’ Spouses in the Black Church

4/12/22: American Black Journal – The Role of Pastors’ Spouses in the Black Church

American Black Journal Host Stephen Henderson continues the Black Church in Detroit series with a look inside the lives of pastors and their spouses to see how they support the ministry individually and as a couple together. He talks with Bishop Edgar Vann and his wife Elder Sheila Vann from Second Ebenezer Church about their roles. Plus, producer Marcus Green talks with Detroit Church Pastor Sonny Smith and his wife Sherita about staring their ministry and serving the church congregation together.

4/05/22: American Black Journal – Domestic Violence Calls Increase, Detroit Summer Jobs Program

4/05/22: American Black Journal – Domestic Violence Calls Increase, Detroit Summer Jobs Program

Domestic violence calls have increased during the pandemic, but what’s behind the rise? Host Stephen Henderson talks with HAVEN of Oakland County to find out why we’re seeing an uptick in the number of victims seeking help and how Black women have been disproportionately affected. Plus, Stephen catches up with the City of Detroit’s ‘Grow Detroit’s Young Talent’ summer jobs program for more on what’s in store for youth and employers this season.

3/15/22: American Black Journal – Detroit United Front, Gilda Snowden Memorial Exhibit, Laura Rain & The Caesars

3/15/22: American Black Journal – Detroit United Front, Gilda Snowden Memorial Exhibit, Laura Rain & The Caesars

On “American Black Journal” this week, host Stephen Henderson hears from a new organization, Detroit United Front, that’s advocating for better equity and inclusion for Black businesses in Detroit. Then, producer AJ Walker takes viewers to The Scarab Club for a memorial art exhibit dedicated to the late artist, community leader and mentor Gilda Snowden. Plus, Laura Rain & The Caesars perform from the Marygrove Theater stage.

3/01/22: American Black Journal – Reparations: What Is Owed to Black Americans?

3/01/22: American Black Journal – Reparations: What Is Owed to Black Americans?

Host Stephen Henderson revisits portions from American Black Journal and BridgeDetroit’s reparations town hall with special guests Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson, Lauren Hood, Andre Perry and Keith Williams. The group discuss what reparations are owed to Black Americans and what form they should take. Plus, Hood and Williams share information about a new Detroit task force for reparations.

2/22/2022: American Black Journal – The Black Church in Detroit One-Year Anniversary Special

2/22/2022: American Black Journal – The Black Church in Detroit One-Year Anniversary Special

American Black Journal celebrates The Black Church in Detroit’s one-year anniversary in collaboration with the Ecumenical Theological Seminary and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History with a special hour-long episode. Host Stephen Henderson explores the impact of the series and the importance of the church in the Black community. Plus a never-before-seen interview from BridgeDetroit’s Orlando Bailey, and an original gospel performance from Bishop Charles Ellis III and gospel musician Paul Porter.

2/15/22: American Black Journal – Horace Sheffield Jr.’s Archives, Olayami Dabls, Tylonn Sawyer

2/15/22: American Black Journal – Horace Sheffield Jr.’s Archives, Olayami Dabls, Tylonn Sawyer

American Black Journal continues to celebrate Black History Month by taking a closer look at the legacy of Horace Sheffield, Jr., a trailblazer in the African American labor union movement. Then, producer Marcus Green profiles this year’s Kresge Eminent Artist Olayami Dabls at his MBAD African Bead Museum on Detroit’s west side. Plus, One Detroit Associate Producer Will Glover has a conversation with Detroit artist and educator Tylonn Sawyer about the importance of depicting contemporary messages in his artwork.

2/01/22: American Black Journal – Racial Disparity in Traffic Stops, Legacy of Dr. Charles H. Wright

2/01/22: American Black Journal – Racial Disparity in Traffic Stops, Legacy of Dr. Charles H. Wright

This week, host Stephen Henderson investigates an independent study from MSU’s School of Criminal Justice that showed Black drivers were stopped by Michigan State Police at disproportionately high rates in 2020. Stephen examines the steps being taken to address these racial disparities. Plus, BridgeDetroit’s Engagement Director Orlando Bailey takes us inside the life and legacy of the late Dr. Charles H. Wright, founder of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, with the museum’s Director of Design and Fabrication Kevin Davidson.

1/25/22: American Black Journal – Prison Ministries in the Black Church

1/25/22: American Black Journal – Prison Ministries in the Black Church

Host Stephen Henderson continues “The Black Church in Detroit” series with a look at the church’s support system for incarcerated men, women and their families. He hears more about the religious services being offered by the prison and jail ministries. Plus, American Black Journal producer AJ Walker visits a Detroit church that’s helping exonerated prisoners re-enter society after spending decades behind bars.

1/18/22: American Black Journal – Current Events Roundtable, Remembering Sidney Poitier

1/18/22: American Black Journal – Current Events Roundtable, Remembering Sidney Poitier

Host Stephen Henderson leads a wide-ranging roundtable discussion around some of the biggest current events catching headlines in the new year. Hear public relations and political consultants Karen Dumas, Greg Bowens and Brandon Brice, as well as “The Urban Conservative” host Kerry Leon Jackson debate about new redistricting maps, discuss the conviction and sentencing in the Amhaud Arbery case, and share their perspectives in the Jan. 6 insurrection. Plus, Stephen remembers the legacy of trailblazing actor and civil rights activist Sidney Poitier.

1/11/22: American Black Journal – Black Leaders Detroit, Workplace DEI, Dance Theatre of Harlem

1/11/22: American Black Journal – Black Leaders Detroit, Workplace DEI, Dance Theatre of Harlem

Host Stephen Henderson talks with Black Leaders Detroit Founder Dwan Dandridge about leveling the playing field for Black-owned businesses and organizations through financial support. Then, Stephen discusses what progress has been made to workplace diversity and what areas are still lacking with marketing consultant Mark S. Lee. Plus, the Dance Theatre of Harlem makes a visit to the Motown Museum in Detroit before the upcoming premiere performance of “Higher Ground.”

12/28/21: American Black Journal – The Role of Pastors’ Spouses in the Church

12/28/21: American Black Journal – The Role of Pastors’ Spouses in the Church

American Black Journal Host Stephen Henderson continues the Black Church in Detroit series with a look inside the lives of pastors and their spouses to see how they support the ministry individually and as a couple together. He talks with Bishop Edgar Vann and his wife Elder Sheila Vann from Second Ebenezer Church about their roles. Plus, producer Marcus Green talks with Detroit Church Pastor Sonny Smith and his wife Sherita about staring their ministry and serving the church congregation together.

12/14/21: American Black Journal – Bentor Harbor Water Crisis, Homeless Youth Campaign

12/14/21: American Black Journal – Bentor Harbor Water Crisis, Homeless Youth Campaign

Host Stephen Henderson talks with stakeholders from Benton Harbor about the lead-contaminated water crisis currently affecting the city and its residents. They discuss aging infrastructure, the impacts of unsafe drinking water, and possible solutions. Plus, the Detroit Phoenix Center shares its latest campaign, “One Night Without a Bed,” which raises awareness and donations for the 4.2 million youth who experience homelessness each year.

11/30/21: American Black Journal – Womanist Theology

11/30/21: American Black Journal – Womanist Theology

Host Stephen Henderson continues American Black Journal’s yearlong series on The Black Church in Detroit with a look at Womanist Theology, a term that refers to an approach to the study of God centered on the experiences and perspectives of African-American women in the United Stated and throughout the diaspora.

9/28/21: American Black Journal – COVID’s Impact on Ministers and Congregations

9/28/21: American Black Journal – COVID’s Impact on Ministers and Congregations

As faith leaders, ministers are called upon to comfort parishioners in times of sorrow and need, but what happens when the grief touches them personally? Continuing the yearlong Black Church series, host Stephen Henderson checks in with ministers and their congregations to see how COVID-19 has impacted them. Plus, Stephen speaks with two pastors about vaccinations and hesitancy to get them.

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