This Week on American Black Journal:

Michigan Diversity Council 2023 National Black Men in Leadership Summit magnifies Black leadership, excellence

Despite progress in recent years, the fight for diversity, equity, and inclusion remains a crucial aspect of corporate and social landscapes. On Aug. 17-18, prominent African American leaders, professional and diversity advocates will come together for the Michigan Diversity Council’s annual National Black Men in Leadership Summit to candidly discuss and address the pressing issues surrounding diversity equity and inclusion in the professional world. This year’s theme celebrates the legacy and contributions of historic Black leaders, underscoring their role as trailblazers and visionaries.

The summit has become a cornerstone event, attracting influential speakers, experts, and participants from across the United States. Each year, it empowers Black men in leadership roles and promotes their representation in various industries, including business, technology, healthcare, education, and more. Throughout the years, the summit has evolved into a catalyst for change, sparking critical conversations about overcoming systemic barriers and dismantling stereotypes that hinder progress for Black professionals. 

This year’s 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.

Michigan Diversity Council Executive Director Darlene King-Turner sits down with “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson to talk about this year’s theme, “The Legacy of Black Leadership and Excellence,” and the event’s goal of uplifting Black males and providing them with opportunities for professional, personal and community growth. They also discuss the current state of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts and the difference between equality and equity.

Brilliant Detroit announces new citywide summer literacy campaign to curb student learning loss

As summer break continues for students across the United States, concerns about the academic impact of learning loss on communities of color and low-income families continue to heighten. Research consistently shows that students from these communities are disproportionately affected by the “summer slide,” a phenomenon where children experience a decline in academic skills and knowledge during the extended break. With limited access to resources and educational opportunities, these students face even greater challenges in bridging the achievement gap when they return to school in the fall.  

Addressing this issue has become a critical focus for educators, policymakers, and local and national community organizations, like Brilliant Detroit and Reading Partners, as they strive to ensure equity and provide support to vulnerable populations during the summer months. By creating engaging and enjoyable summer literacy programs, it can instill a love for reading and learning in children, making them more motivated to excel academically. 

Brilliant Detroit Co-founder & CEO Cindy Eggleton and Reading Partners CEO Adeola Whitney talked with “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson about Brilliant Detroit’s 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. Whitney, whose national organization partnered with Brilliant Detroit for the event, also talks about collaborating in Detroit for the first time and providing volunteer tutors to assist families. 

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