American Black Journal

A growing trend of younger African Americans are shifting from organized religion to spirituality. A Pew Research survey found that young Black adults are not only less religious but also less engaged with predominantly Black churches compared to their older counterparts. Guest host Orlando Bailey of BridgeDetroit talks with three ministers about young African Americans’ evolving faith practices.

“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson leads a robust discussion with local African American real estate developers and leaders from organizations that are providing resources and tools to help level the playing field for minority developers.

For National Family Caregivers Month, Area Agency on Aging 1-B’s Julie Lowenthal talks about the support services for family caregivers and the challenges they face. Fresh Perspectives Seminars’ Gwen Thomas shares details about its 10th annual Black Friday Scholarship Bootcamp; Plus, a performance by Alice McAllister Tillman and Alvin Waddles.

In a bid to transform Black Friday from a day of shopping sprees to a day of educational empowerment, Gwen Thomas of Fresh Perspectives Seminars talks about the 10th annual Black Friday Scholarship Bootcamp on Nov. 24 in Detroit. She discusses her unique approach of encouraging families to shop for scholarships instead of retail bargains at the mall.

November is National Family Caregivers Month. The Area Agency on Aging 1-B’s Julie Lowenthal talks about the importance of support services and resources for family caregivers and the myriad challenges they face while caring for their loved ones. Plus, Lowenthal explores possible legislative policies that would ease the burdens faced by family caregivers.

Some of Michigan’s top experts in higher education and diversity, equity, and inclusion address how Michigan can improve outcomes for young students of color and what Michigan’s institutions of higher education must do to diversify their admissions and ensure first-generation students have the support they need.

The Children’s Center’s new CEO Nicole Wells Stallworth sits down with host Stephen Henderson to share her vision for the organization. Henderson leads a panel discussion with some of Michigan’s top experts in college access and equity about how Michigan can improve outcomes for students of color. Plus, an EV Automotive Mobility Program is training Detroiters for the jobs of the future.

The Blackbottom Group has launched an innovative program, the EV Automotive Mobility Program, which equips Detroiters with the skills necessary for jobs that will soon be in high demand. The program offers hands-on training in the maintenance and repair of electric vehicles in an effort to bridge the gap and address the stark racial disparity within the EV industry.

Nicole Wells Stallworth has been selected as the new CEO of The Children’s Center, a long-standing nonprofit that has advocated for Detroit-area children and families since 1929. She sat down with host Stephen Henderson to share her vision for the organization and express her commitment to bettering children’s mental and emotional health.

The “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on interfaith relationships in Detroit and how the Black Church can better navigate the tensions arising from it. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Bishop Charles Ellis III of Greater Grace Temple, Rev. Dr. Constance Simon from Fellowship Chapel, and Bishop Mbiyu Chui from the Shrine of the Black Madonna #1.

The Detroit Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority celebrates the 30-year anniversary of its Minerva Education and Development Foundation with an Oct. 29 gala raising money for scholarships and grants. Event chair Jenice Mitchell Ford talks about the mission of MEDF and the Detroit Deltas’ legacy of philanthropy and helping others.

Trailblazing operatic tenor George Shirley talks about his entry into opera and his history as a music educator. The Nu Omega Detroit Chapter of Omega Psi Phi is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Plus, the Detroit Delta’s Minerva Education and Development Foundation celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The Nu Omega Detroit Chapter of Omega Psi Phi is commemorating its centennial as a cornerstone of service and leadership in Detroit. Dr. Michael Carrauthers, the chair of the anniversary committee, shares how the chapter is celebrating 100 years of service and the accomplishments of some of the fraternity’s well-known Detroit members.

As one of the first African American operatic performers, renowned tenor and trailblazer George Shirley’s contributions to the world of opera and music education have left an indelible mark on the industry. Shirley sat down for an exclusive one-on-one conversation with 90.9 WRCJ’s Cecelia Sharpe about his remarkable entry into the opera scene and his history as a music educator.

Two-time Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter discusses her exhibit “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design” at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History through March 31, 2024. The exhibit features costumes from iconic films such as Black Panther, Wakanda Forever, Roots, Selma, Malcolm X and many more.

Dance Theatre of Harlem returns to Detroit for another round of performances by the renowned dance troupe. Artistic Director Robert Garland talks about the performances planned for Detroit audiences and how the pandemic has changed the landscape of dance.

Two-time Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter showcases her career as a costume designer in a new exhibit, “Afrofuturism in Costume Design,” at The Wright Museum. Plus, Dance Theatre of Harlem Artistic Director Robert Garland shares details about the troupe’s upcoming Detroit performances and how the pandemic has influenced the landscape of dance.

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History has presented the next installment of its lecture series, “A Conversation with Alexander Smalls,” James-Beard-Award-winning chef, author and restaurant owner. 

A historic jazz club in Detroit is getting a massive renovation, thanks to the nonprofit Detroit Sound Conservancy. CNS Healthcare and Judson Center address mental health issues in the Black community for World Mental Health Day. Plus, we examine the impact of social media on teenagers’ mental health.

The historic Blue Bird Inn jazz club on Detroit’s west side is getting a massive renovation, thanks to the nonprofit Detroit Sound Conservancy. ABJ contributor Cecelia Sharpe talks with members of the community about what the rehab of the club will mean for the surrounding neighborhood.

In recognition of International Wrongful Conviction Day, explore the barriers and challenges faced by men and women returning to society after a wrongful conviction and learn about an upcoming fundraiser to support their re-entry. Plus, The Yunion marks 20 years of service to Detroit youth. Learn about The Yunion’s 20th anniversary gala and state-of-the-art youth development center in Detroit.

Detroit nonprofit The Yunion marks 20 years of service to metro Detroit youth and the more than 17,000 young people whose lives have been changed because of the nonprofit. Host Stephen Henderson talks with The Yunion’s Founder & CEO Jason Wilson and Executive Director Nicole Wilson about the nonprofit’s new state-of-the-art youth development center in Detroit and their upcoming anniversary gala.

Explore the barriers and challenges faced by men and women who have been wrongfully convicted and hear about an upcoming fundraiser to support their re-entry into society. Host Stephen Henderson talks with the president of the Organization of Exonerees Kenneth Nixon, an exoneree himself, and Valerie Newman, deputy chief and director of the Conviction Integrity Unit in the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Caleb’s Kids Founder and CEO Kiesha Jackson shares how the tragedy of losing her brother to suicide created the spark for the organization and talks about her mission to spread messages of hope to Detroit middle and high school students.

The “Black Church in Detroit” series examines how technology trends are shaping the present and future of the Black Church. Two Detroit pastors, Rev. Carnel Richardson of New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church and Pastor Aramis Hinds from Breakers Covenant Church International talk about their churches’ journey adapting to the technologies brought forth by the pandemic and the future of artificial intelligence in ministry.

The “Black Church in Detroit” series examines how the latest technology trends are shaping the present and future of the Black Church. Two Detroit pastors delve into the thought-provoking realm of artificial intelligence. Plus, in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month in September, Caleb’s Kids Founder and CEO Kiesha Jackson shares her mission to help middle and high school students with mental health struggles.

Detroit Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti gives an update on the current state of the district. Plus, September is Black Reading Month, highlighting the importance of reading works by African American authors. September is also Detroit Month of Design. Learn how design impacts our every day lives.

A new Black-owned grocery store aims to tackle the food desert on Detroit’s eastside. Hear about the benefits of plant-based eating from Quiana Broden, founder of The Kitchen by Cooking with Que. Plus, renowned jazz bassist and music educator Marion Hayden discusses Detroit’s storied jazz culture.

In a promising development for Detroit’s Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood on the city’s Eastside, African American entrepreneur Raphael Wright is set to open the doors of Neighborhood Grocery. The market is poised to make history as the first Black-owned grocery store in Detroit in nearly a decade.

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.

The “Black Church in Detroit” series delves into the contemporary significance of civil rights and the state of civil rights today. Historic King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church’s Senior Pastor, Rev. Charles Williams II, a distinguished figure in civil rights arenas, shares his perspectives on the legacy of the 1963 March on Washington and the present-day state of civil rights advocacy.

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series delves into the contemporary significance of civil rights, the March on Washington’s impact, and the state of civil rights today. Two Black church leaders reflect on the 1963 Detroit Walk to Freedom and Dr. King’s legacy. Plus, the Church of the Messiah’s “Detroit: City of Peace” event celebrates the accomplishments of Detroit’s youth.

Masterpiece Sound Studios recently showcased the power of Sylvia Moy’s songwriting legacy with its cover song contest, crowning Drey Skonie and The Klouds as the first-place winners for their captivating rendition of a classic Motown hit penned by Moy, the late Masterpiece Sound Studios founder.

As the nation reflects on the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom and the Detroit Walk to Freedom, an intriguing connection exists between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches and the iconic Motown Records. In an exclusive interview, contributor Cecelia Sharpe of 90.9 WRCJ, delves into this significant link with Robin Terry, Chairwoman and CEO of the Motown Museum.

Motown Museum CEO Robin Terry sheds light on Motown Records’ groundbreaking decision to make Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches available on record albums and how that continues to influence the museum’s initiatives. Plus, Masterpiece Sound Studios recently showcased the power of Motown’s musical legacy with its cover song contest, crowning Drey Skonie and The Klouds as the first-place winner.

Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation President Chris Collins and artist Brittini Ward preview the 2023 Jazz Festival lineup and talk about the inspiration behind this year’s festival poster. Plus, watch a performance from this year’s Rocket Mortgage artist-in-residence Karriem Riggins.

Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation President Chris Collins and artist Brittini Ward preview this year’s festival and unveil this year’s official festival poster. Plus, Collins gives an update on the huge renovation of the jazz center named for the late Gretchen Valade on Wayne State University’s campus.

Focus: HOPE has expanded its Food for Seniors program to assist more seniors who are experiencing food insecurity. Program expansions include the addition of 43 new sites across Southeast Michigan where eligible seniors can register for monthly food boxes.

Focus: HOPE expands its Food for Seniors program to assist more seniors who are experiencing food insecurity. National Endowment for the Arts Chair Dr. Maria Rosario Jackson talks about the importance of the arts in building healthy communities. And, check out a conversation about the film “Detroit We Dey” with filmmaker Ozi Uduma.

Brilliant Detroit announces a new citywide summer literacy campaign at its community hubs. Children and families can take part in reading activities, field trips and pop-up events designed to keep young kids engaged in the joy of reading.

The Michigan Diversity Council’s National Black Men in Leadership Summit will explore the themes of Black entrepreneurship, racism and mental health, fatherhood in the Black community, policing in America, the legacy of Black Greek letter organizations and historically black colleges and universities, Black philanthropy, and more.

The Michigan Diversity Council previews its annual National Black Men in Leadership Summit. Plus, Brilliant Detroit’s citywide summer reading campaign teams up with Reading Partners to curb learning loss in communities of color.

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the power of the prophetic voice of the Black Church and its importance today amid issues harming African Americans and other marginalized groups. Host Stephen Henderson talks with two local pastors about the church’s role and responsibility in the prophetic biblical tradition to speak out against racial and social injustice.

“American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson leads a roundtable with BridgeDetroit’s Nushrat Rahman, City of Detroit’s Donald Rencher, and Neighborhood Service Organization’s Linda Little. They talk about the current state of homelessness in the city, housing instability, affordable housing units, federal housing vouchers, and the end to a national moratorium on rental evictions.

Detroiter Tonya Hogan shares firsthand how losing her husband to COVID-19 caused her to become homeless and the challenges she’s faced finding affordable housing. Plus, learn about the increasing number of families seeking shelter and a few programs the city offers to help with housing emergencies.

“American Black Journal” takes a critical examination of Detroit’s affordable housing shortage and its impact on homelessness in the city. Tonya Hogan shares firsthand how she became homeless after losing her husband to COVID-19. Plus, a roundtable on affordable housing, homelessness and the city’s available resources.

In advance of her visit to Detroit for the 2023 Concert of COlors, National Endowment for the Arts Chair Dr. Maria Rosario Jackson sits down with Stephen Henderson to talk about the importance of the arts in building healthy communities and her historic appointment as the first Black Mexican American woman to lead the NEA.

The 17th annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day returns with more than 100 events and community service projects around the city. We preview of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s 40th annual African World Festival. Plus, BridgeDetroit reporter Micah Walker visits the Detroit Food Academy, a nonprofit that teaches culinary and life skills to young Detroiters.

The 17th annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day returns Aug. 5 with more than 100 events and community service projects around the city. ARISE Detroit! Executive Director Luther Keith joins “American Black Journal” to give viewers a preview of the event and discuss its mission.

Detroit Food Academy is revolutionizing the lives of young Detroiters by blending the art of cooking with life and leadership skills. BridgeDetroit’s Micah Walker learns about the work they do to prepare the next generation of young leaders.