3/22/22: American Black Journal – Fisher Body Plant Redevelopment, Black Mothers Maternal Mortality Rate
On “American Black Journal” this week, BridgeDetroit’s Orlando Bailey talks with two African American developers leading a $134 million proposed redevelopment of the former Fisher Body Plant No. 21. Plus, we talk with Mothering Justice about the maternal mortality rate, and the increase in pregnancy-related deaths among Black mothers in 2020.
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.
3/08/22: American Black Journal – Celebrating Black Female Trailblazers for Women’s History Month
For Women’s History Month this March, “American Black Journal” celebrates two African American women trailblazers, Michigan Court of Claims Judge Hon. Cynthia Stephens and the late author and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston, whose accomplishments have paved the way for future generations of African 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
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
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.
2/08/22: American Black Journal – The History of Black History Month, African American Family Book Expo
Host Stephen Henderson learns more about the history of Black History Month, its founding and its importance today. Then, Stephen talks with the Detroit Book City bookstore about their upcoming African American Family Book Expo meant to further literacy in communities of color. Plus, we’ll share one of the winning performances at this year’s 25th annual Sphinx Competition.
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
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
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
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.”
1/04/2022 – American Black Journal: Recounting the Capitol Insurrection and 2021’s Best Stories
Host Stephen Henderson hears how it felt to be inside the Capitol during the Jan. 6 insurrection one year ago from Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence, and the impact the 2020 election had leading up to that day. Plus, Stephen reflects on the best guests and stories on the show in 2021.
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
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.
12/07/21: American Black Journal – Mental Health, Oxford Shooting, Mask Debate, American Rescue Plan Funds
On this week’s episode of American Black Journal, host Stephen Henderson heeds experts advice on how to take care of your mental health during the holidays. Plus, a discussion about the impacts of the Oxford High School shooting on the community, a debate on mask wearing during the pandemic, and answers to how the American Relief Plan Act funds will be used in Detroit.
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.
11/16/21: American Black Journal – Men of Change/Courage, ‘TRIPTYCH: Stronger Together,’ Remembering Barbara-Rose Collins
This Week on American Black Journal: A new...
11/9/21: American Black Journal – Election Results, Low Voter Turnout
This Week on American Black Journal: Our...
11/2/21: American Black Journal – Gun Violence in Detroit
This Week on American Black Journal: ...
10/26/21: American Black Journal – Leadership Succession in the Black Church
Host Stephen Henderson continues American Black...
10/5/21: American Black Journal – Voting Rights, Shirley Woodson Exhibit
This Week on American Black Journal: A...
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.
9/19/21: American Black Journal – Rental Assistance / Facial Recognition Controversy / Satori Shakoor
On the next American Black Journal: Now that a...
9/12/21: American Black Journal Special – Muhammad Ali’s Legacy and Detroit’s Impact on Boxing
On the next American Black Journal, Stephen is...
9/5/21: American Black Journal – Diverse Reading / Rebuilding Neighborhoods / Caregiver Training
On the next American Black Journal, the national...
8/29/21: American Black Journal – Diversity of Denominations in the Black Church / Leadership Roles of Detroit Pastors
On the next American Black Journal, we’ll continue our yearlong series on The Black Church in Detroit
8/22/21: American Black Journal – Detroit Schools Return to In-Person Learning / Black Bottom Neighborhood Celebration
On the next American Black Journal, Stephen has...
8/15/21: American Black Journal – Childcare Resources / Respite Care for Caregivers / Diversity in Orchestras
On the next American Black Journal, United Way...
8/8/21: American Black Journal – Jazz Fest Unveils 2021 Poster As It Prepares To Go Live Again
On the next American Black Journal, the Detroit...
8/1/21: American Black Journal – Detroit Primary Election / Jackets for Jobs
On the next American Black Journal, Detroiters...
7/25/21: American Black Journal – Millennials and the Black Church
On the next American Black Journal, we’ll continue our yearlong series on The Black Church in Detroit with a look at Millennials and the Black Church.
7/18/21: American Black Journal – Challenges Facing Professors of Color / Flooding Impact / Hip Hop During the Pandemic
On the next American Black Journal, we'll talk...
7/11/21 – American Black Journal: Neighborhoods Day / Detroit Artists Market
On the next American Black Journal: The annual...
7/4/21: American Black Journal – Roundtable Discussion on Chauvin Sentencing, Detroit Flooding and Mayor Duggan’s Engagement
On the next American Black Journal, Stephen...
6/27/21: American Black Journal – Gospel music in the Black Church
On the next American Black Journal, we'll...
6/20/21: American Black Journal – Michigan Opera Theatre/ The Complete Muhammad Ali
Stephen talks with the Michigan Opera Theatre’s new Artist-in-Residence, plus this year marks the 5th anniversary of the death of boxing great Muhammad Ali.
6/13/21: American Black Journal – Juneteenth Jubilee / “Tulsa: The Fire and the Forgotten”
On the next American Black Journal: Detroit’s Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is joining with other Black museums and historical institutions across the country for a multi-city celebration of Juneteenth.
6/6/21: American Black Journal – Detroit Future City / Discover your Spark
On the next American Black Journal: Detroit...
5/30/21: American Black Journal – How Do You Define the Black Church?
On the next episode of American Black Journal,...
5/23/21: American Black Journal – Detroit Police Chief James Craig Interview
On the next American Black Journal: Detroit...
5/16/21: American Black Journal – Breaking Mental Health Stigmas / Carl Levin Memoir
On the next American Black Journal: May is...
5/9/21: American Black Journal – Keith Ellison on Chauvin Sentencing / Vickie Thomas Retirement
On the next American Black Journal, Minnesota...
5/2/21: American Black Journal – Police reform and racial justice/Small business workshop
A powerful and thought-provoking conversation...
4/25/21: American Black Journal – The Black Church in the Community
We’ll continue our yearlong series on The Black Church in Detroit with a look at how the church ministers beyond the walls of the building.
4/18/21: American Black Journal – Shaun Robinson / Skilled Trades Training Center / Alexis Lombre
Emmy Award-winning journalist and Detroit native Shaun Robinson talks with Stephen about her new role as Executive Producer for two original movies on the Lifetime Network.
4/11/21: American Black Journal – Voter Suppression / Metro-Detroit Black Business Alliance
Detroit Branch NAACP President Rev. Wendell Anthony talks with Stephen about the controversial new Georgia law that makes sweeping changes to the voting process.
4/4/21: American Black Journal – COVID Emergency Rental Assistance Program / Eyes on the Prize
Detroit Public TV’s WORLD Channel is rebroadcasting the iconic 1987 civil rights history series, “Eyes on the Prize.”
3/28/21: American Black Journal – Women in the Black Church
American Black Journal continues their yearlong series on The Black Church in Detroit with an up-close look at the role of women in the Black Church.
3/21/21: American Black Journal – Conviction Integrity Unit / Tuskegee Airmen
Since 2018, the Conviction Integrity Unit at the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office has investigated innocence claims and new evidence that has led to the exoneration of 28 individuals wrongfully convicted of crimes.
3/14/21: American Black Journal – Children & Pandemic / Heidelberg Project
Stephen talks with the CEO and the Chief Clinical Officer of The Children’s Center about the mental health issues and trauma being experienced by kids.
3/7/21: American Black Journal – Ford & DAPCEP / Asbury Park
Ford Motor Company is making a huge investment in the engineers of tomorrow by donating $250,000 to DAPCEP.
2/28/21: American Black Journal – American Heart Month / Scarab Club
February is American Heart Month, and we’ll talk about the importance of leading a heart healthy lifestyle all year long.
2/21/21: American Black Journal – WGPR as a National Historic Landmark / Sphinx Finals Concert
This week we’ll look at the legacy of the country’s first African American-owned and operated television station, Detroit’s WGPR-TV62, and remember Karen Hudson Samuels. Plus, Andre Dowell talks with Stephen about the virtual event, the contestants and the group’s support of Black and Brown classical string players.
2/14/21: American Black Journal – The Black Church Film and The Black Church in Detroit
American Black Journal begins a yearlong celebration and examination of the historic influence of the Black Church in the life of our city.
2/7/21: American Black Journal – Detroit Teachers / A Generation Found
Detroit Federation of Teachers President Terrence Martin joins Stephen to talk about the current state of education and virtual learning during the pandemic.
1/31/21: American Black Journal – New Year Roundtable
Public relations and political consultants Karen Dumas and Greg Bowens join 910 AM Superstation hosts Brandon Brice and Kerry Leon Jackson to offer their perspectives on major headlines of the new year.
1/24/21: American Black Journal – Flint Mayor Karen Weaver / Judge Leonia Lloyd
Former Flint Mayor Karen Weaver talks candidly with Stephen about the criminal charges brought against former Governor Rick Snyder and eight others in the Flint water crisis
1/17/21: American Black Journal – Rep. Brenda Lawrence / Dream Corps
Michigan Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence gives her firsthand account of the frightening attack at the U.S. Capitol to ABJ contributor Orlando Bailey of BridgeDetroit.
1/10/21: American Black Journal – Mark S. Lee / Dr. Antoine Garibaldi / Marygrove
Stephen talks with business marketing consultant Mark S. Lee of The LEE Group about the economic outlook for 2021.
1/3/21: American Black Journal – Benny Napoleon / Marlowe Stoudamire / Hill Harper / CCH Pounder
On the next American Black Journal, we take a look back at the stories and guests of 2020.
12/27/20: American Black Journal – PontiaConnect / Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion / Detroit Youth Choir
Pontiac Mayor Deirdre Waterman talks with Stephen about a new app named “PontiaConnect,” which is keeping residents engaged and informed about the COVID-19 pandemic.
12/20/20: American Black Journal – Joan Belgrave / Detroit Jazz City
Stephen Henderson talks with NBA legend and former Detroit Mayor Dave Bing about his new autobiography, “Attacking the Rim,” which chronicles his multifaceted careers.
12/13/20: American Black Journal – COVID-19 Vaccines / Dave Bing
Stephen Henderson talks with NBA legend and former Detroit Mayor Dave Bing about his new autobiography, “Attacking the Rim,” which chronicles his multifaceted careers.
12/6/20: American Black Journal – AARP Michigan / Highways & Racism / Alex Way
The head of AARP Michigan, Paula Cunningham, talks with Stephen about the creation of a 4-year health and wealth policy agenda focusing on African American women ages 50 and older.
11/29/20: American Black Journal – i.Detroit: A Human Atlas of an American City / Author Roxane Gay
British artist Marcus Lyon talks with Stephen about his newest Human Atlas interactive project, “i.Detroit: A Human Atlas of an American City.” Plus, Stephen talks with best-selling author Roxane Gay at this year’s Contemporary American Authors Lecture Series presented by the Marygrove Conservancy.
11/22/20: American Black Journal – Lt Gov Garlin Gilchrist / Avenue of Fashion
Contributor Orlando Bailey of BridgeDetroit has an in-depth conversation with Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist about COVID-19’s impact on the state.
8/16/20: American Black Journal – Racism as Public Health Crisis / Equity in the Arts
Stephen talks with Nate Wallace from Knight Foundation’s Detroit office about an op-ed he wrote indicating the need for Black Detroiters to have more access to the arts.
11/8/20: American Black Journal – Rev. Al Sharpton & Rev. Horace Sheffield III
Stephen Henderson has a candid conversation about the 2020 election with civil rights activists Rev. Al Sharpton and Rev. Horace Sheffield III.
11/1/20: American Black Journal – Voting Matters / Posters on Politics / Wayne State University
Detroit artist Donna Jackson talks about her new, international collection of more than 200 posters with a political theme on exhibit at the Marygrove Gallery of Art.
10/25/20: American Black Journal – 2020 Election Roundtable
On the next American Black Journal, we convene our special roundtable guests for a frank conversation about the upcoming election.
10/18/20: American Black Journal – NAACP Get Out the Vote / Daniel Bernard Roumain
Stephen Henderson sits down with Detroit NAACP President Rev. Wendell Anthony to talk about the organization’s efforts to get out the vote for the November 3rd election.
10/11/20: American Black Journal – Detroit Police Chief James Craig
Stephen Henderson goes one-on-one with Detroit Police Chief James Craig for a candid conversation about policing in Detroit.
10/4/20: American Black Journal – Black Lives Matter: Police-Community Relationships
In the ongoing series, “Do Black Lives Matter in America?,” we take a closer look at the relationship between Detroit police and the community, especially in light of the ongoing Black Lives Matter protests.
9/27/20: American Black Journal – Black Lives Matter: Is the Media Getting It Right?
In the ongoing series, “Do Black Lives Matter in America?,” we have frank conversations about the way the news media has covered the Black Lives Matter protests, and we take a look at diversity in the nation’s newsrooms.
9/20/20: American Black Journal – Black Lives Matter: The Movement and the Message
ABJ is launching a 3-part series of shows produced in collaboration with the innovative, community-based news organization, BridgeDetroit, and focusing on the question: “Do Black Lives Matter in America?”
9/13/20: American Black Journal – National Suicide Prevention Month / Detroit Phoenix Center / Detroit Jazz City
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and Stephen talks with the founder of a non-profit that has launched a campaign to reduce the rising rates of suicide among young Black boys ages 5-12.
9/6/20: American Black Journal – Presidential Campaigns / Police Shootings / Chadwick Boseman
On the next American Black Journal, our roundtable of communications consultants, political strategists and radio personalities take on the topics that everyone is talking about in the African American community.
8/30/20: American Black Journal – Dying Before Their Time / Sundown Towns
Stephen talks with DAAA President & CEO Ronald Taylor about the report’s findings and ways to reduce the numbers.
8/23/20: American Black Journal – Detroit Jazz Festival / Seven Last Words of the Unarmed
Stephen gets all of the details on the new virtual format for this year’s 41st Annual Detroit Jazz Festival.
8/9/20: American Black Journal – Policing, the Community & Schools / Detroit Trinity International Film Festival
Stephen talks with Sherry McRill of Northeast Integrated Health about a program that sends social and behavioral health experts on calls with police to help provide needed services to the community.
8/2/20: American Black Journal – Wayne State University / Disability Network / Plowshares Theatre Company
Wayne State University President M. Roy Wilson talks with Stephen about the many changes coming to the campus this fall due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
7/26/20: American Black Journal – COVID313 Community Coalition / Diversity in Hiring / Remembering C.T. Vivian and John Lewis
Stephen has a candid conversation with Rock Ventures about what steps the company is taking to increase diversity, equity and inclusion.
7/19/20: American Black Journal – War on Racism / Arise! Detroit / Dell Pryor
Stephen talks with Michael Rafferty, the CEO of New Detroit; plus, the annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day is still on this summer and Dell Pryor talks about her collaboration with the Detroit Artists Market.
7/5/20: American Black Journal – COVID-19 Impact on Mental Health / Racial Disparities During the Pandemic / Music by Anita Dumar
Stephen talks with the Rev. Horace Sheffield III, the head of DABO (Detroit Association of Black Organizations), about his personal battle with COVID-19 and the impact of the virus on Detroiters.
6/28/20: American Black Journal – Dr. Nikolai Vitti / Satori Shakoor / Sphinx Org
Stephen Henderson talks with Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti about the changes being put in place to keep students, teachers and staff safe. Master storyteller Satori Shakoor talks about the life-changing stories and messages coming out of the pandemic and George Floyd protests.
6/21/20: American Black Journal – Roundtable On George Floyd Protests, Police Brutality & Systemic Racism
We’ve assembled a special roundtable of guests for a candid conversation about the protests that have erupted around the world after the death of George Floyd.
6/7/20: American Black Journal – Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony / Small Business Workshop
Stephen has a frank conversation with Detroit NAACP President, Rev. Wendell Anthony, about the murder of George Floyd while in police custody and the protests across the country.
5/31/20: American Black Journal – Warren Evans / Mental health toll on African Americans
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans talks with Stephen about COVID-19, its impact on the county, and how it is disrupting the 2020 Census count.
5/17/20: American Black Journal – COVID-19 Racial disparities / Songs inspired by the pandemic
Singer-songwriter Mark Scott of The Miracles talks about the new song he wrote and produced that’s inspired by the pandemic.
5/10/20: American Black Journal – Pandemic impact on food industry / Music venues / Vincent Chandler Collective
Stephen speaks with Ma Haru Executive Chef Phil Jones about COVID-19’s impact on the restaurant industry. Plus, Shahida Mausi talks about how independent music venues and promoters across the country are banding together.
5/3/20: American Black Journal – Dr. Wendell Anthony / Protecting Homeless / Detroit Jazz Festival
Detroit NAACP President Rev. Wendell Anthony talks with Stephen about COVID-19’s impact on Detroiters and the unprecedented initiative that will provide laptops and Internet access for Detroit students.
4/19/20: American Black Journal – Rev. Horace Sheffield III / Charles Ballard / Nova Zaii
Stephen talks with the Rev. Horace Sheffield III, the head of DABO (Detroit Association of Black Organizations), about his personal battle with COVID-19 and the impact of the virus on Detroiters.
4/12/20: American Black Journal – Tonya Allen / Solomon Kinloch / Virtual Gender Reveal
Stephen talks with Tonya Allen, president & CEO of The Skillman Foundation, about distance learning for students and the educational resources that local non-profits are providing.
4/5/20: American Black Journal – Race, Health and the Pandemic / Shannon Cason
Stephen has a frank conversation about the connection between race, health and the COVID-19 pandemic. How are health disparities in urban cities like Detroit, New Orleans and Chicago contributing to the spread of the coronavirus?
3/29/20: American Black Journal – Small Business / Detroit neighborhoods / Remembering Marlowe Stoudamire
Stephen has a frank conversation with Pastor Barry Randolph of Detroit’s Church of the Messiah on how the outbreak is impacting residents in city neighborhoods.
3/22/20: American Black Journal – River Rouge School District / Roundtable
We learn how the River Rouge school district is providing students with food and learning materials while schools are shut down in wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
3/15/20: American Black Journal – The World of Work / Women Authors / Susan Watson
University of Michigan professor Alford Young, Jr. talks about his groundbreaking book on low-income African Americans living in Ypsilanti and their views on navigating a world of work that focuses on technology.
3/8/20: American Black Journal – Black Economic Agenda Summit / Activate Fund
The National Business League (NBL), founded by Booker T. Washington in 1900, is hosting The Black Economic Agenda Summit in Detroit this month. Stephen talks with NBL leadership about the event and economic strategies to empower the Black community.
3/1/20: American Black Journal – CCH Pounder / Heart Disease in African-American women
Veteran actress CCH Pounder sits down with reporter Will Glover to talk about her private art collection titled “Queen,” which is on display at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit.
2/16/20: American Black Journal – The American Rhapsody
We have the Detroit premiere of Sphinx founder Aaron Dworkin’s groundbreaking performance that combines an original spoken word narrative with the music of Afro-British composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.
