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American Black Journal

Detroit Walk to Freedom virtual town Hall

Women’s History Month: The role of women in the Black Church | The Black Church in Detroit

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the role of women in the Black church. Host Stephen Henderson discusses the issues impacting Black women in the church with two Detroit women ministers: Rev. Dr. Constance Simon of Fellowship Chapel and Rev. Dr. Remonia Chapman of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church.

Poet Nikki Giovanni discusses her literary works, outer space and a new documentary about her life

A new documentary, “Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project” details the extraordinary life and career of renowned poet Nikki Giovanni. Contributor Cecelia Sharpe sat down with Giovanni at the Wright Museum for a wide-ranging conversation about her life, career, literary works and future plans. Plus, Giovanni discusses the “Going to Mars” documentary and her fascination with outer space.

Renowned Poet Nikki Giovanni, Rosie White’s Black history impersonations | American Black Journal

Renowned poet Nikki Giovanni talks with contributor Cecelia Sharpe at the Charles H. Wright Museum about her life, career, literary works and her future plans. Plus, we meet an eight-year-old Detroit girl who has gone viral on social media for her impersonations of Black icons and historical figures from the past and present.

New Neighborhood Vitality Index measures, shares data about how Detroit’s neighborhoods are doing

There’s a new online tool available for Detroit residents, community development groups, local government and others to access timely data about how the city’s neighborhoods are doing. It’s called the Neighborhood Vitality Index (NVI) and its goal is to create a well-coordinated, effective, and equitable system for community development work in Detroit neighborhoods. Host Stephen Henderson talks with with Jane Morgan, president of JFM Consulting Group and one of the architects of the index.

Detroit Neighborhood Vitality Index, Ruth E. Carter Afrofuturism exhibit | American Black Journal

There’s a new online tool available for Detroiters to access timely data about how city neighborhoods are doing. Host Stephen Henderson speaks with Jane Morgan, president of JFM Consulting Group, about the Neighborhood Vitality Index. Plus, Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter discusses her exhibit “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design” at the Wright Museum through March 31.

Grow Detroit’s Young Talent jobs program kicks off 10th year of summer employment

The annual Grow Detroit’s Young Talent summer jobs program has returned for its 10th year. The program matches Detroit residents ages 14-24 with employers in a wide variety of industries including manufacturing, IT, construction, entrepreneurship, and corporate work. Host Stephen Henderson speaks with three guests connected to the program about the job opportunities and career training provided.

Grow Detroit’s Young Talent jobs program, Detroit DJ Stacey ‘Hotwaxx’ Hale | ABJ Full Episode

The annual Grow Detroit’s Young Talent summer jobs program has returned for its 10th year. Host Stephen Henderson speaks with three guests connected to the program about the job opportunities and career training provided. Plus, in recognition of Women’s History Month, contributor Cecelia Sharpe of 90.9 WRCJ about her career and the importance of uplifting the next generation of women DJs.

Eight-year-old Detroiter Rosie White goes viral for impersonations of Black icons, historical figures

Robyn McKee, or Rosie White as she’s known online, has gained national attention online for her video impressions of Black icons, capturing the attention of celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg and Michelle Obama. One Detroit’s Daijah Moss talks with Rosie, 8, of Detroit and her family about the inspiration, challenges and moments they’ve shared along the way.

AI and the Black church: Local ministers discuss the benefits, challenges of artificial intelligence

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the impact of artificial intelligence on the African American community and the Black church. Guest Host Orlando Bailey of BridgeDetroit discusses the challenges and potential benefits of generative AI with Rev. Cindy Rudolph of Oak Grove AME Church and Rev. Lawrence Rodgers of Second Baptist Church.

New data released by EHproject shows Black women are at higher risk for heart disease

New data from the medical team at EHproject show African American women are at a greater risk for heart disease than their white counterparts. For American Heart Month, Henry Ford Health Cardiologist Dr. Brittany Fuller talks about the high rate of heart disease among Black women. Plus, she provides some helpful advice on what women can do to reduce their risk factors.

Black student artwork on display at The Carr Center, Bedrock’s ‘Celebrating Black Arts’ exhibit

The Carr Center and Bedrock have teamed up to celebrate Black arts with a new exhibit for Black History Month. The exhibit features artwork by 23 student artists and 10 emerging and established artists from Detroit. The Carr Center President Oliver Ragsdale shares details about the exhibit and its importance during Black History Month.

American Heart Month, ‘Celebrating Black Arts’ exhibit, 2024 NFL Draft | American Black Journal

For American Heart Month, Henry Ford Health Cardiologist Dr. Brittany Fuller discusses the high incidence of heart disease among Black women. The Carr Center President Oliver Ragsdale shares details about the center’s new “Celebrating Black Arts” exhibit with Bedrock. Plus, Visit Detroit CEO Claude Molinari shares the city of Detroit’s plans for hosting the 2024 NFL Draft.

Gospel’s orgins and evolution, Gospel artist Darius Twyman, Detroit’s gospel history | American Black Journal

In conjunction with the PBS docuseries, “GOSPEL,” explore Detroit’s influence on gospel music. Gospel radio host and historian Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard gives a history lesson on the origins and evolution of the genre. Plus, gospel artist Darius Twyman and Greater Grace Temple’s Bishop Charles Ellis III talk about how Detroit has influenced gospel in the Black church.

Darius Twyman discusses Detroit’s major influence on traditional and contemporary gospel music

Aretha Franklin, The Winans, Mattie Moss-Clark and The Clark sisters. The list of gospel artists with roots in Detroit is long and continues to grow. Local gospel artist Darius Twyman talks with “Detroit Performs” host Satori Shakoor and BridgeDetroit journalist Orlando Bailey about his musical start, Detroit’s major influence on gospel, and the meaning behind his original song “Made It Over.”

Gospel radio host, historian Deborah Smith Pollards gives history lesson on Detroit’s gospel influence

Few know the history of gospel music better than gospel radio host and historian Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard. In conjunction with the PBS docuseries, “GOSPEL,” Pollard talks about the origins of gospel music and how it has evolved over the years to the sound we hear today from contemporary gospel artists.

Violinist Nathan Amaral takes home first place in Sphinx Competition Senior Division

Violinist Nathan Amaral, a 28-year-old from Rio de Janeiro, has won the senior division of the 27th annual Sphinx Finals Competition. As the winner, Amaral receives the Robert Frederick Smith Prize, a $50,000 award, and the opportunity to perform with several major orchestras across the nation. Watch Amaral’s first-place performance, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Concerto for Violin in G minor.

Techno’s African American roots: Pioneering producer Carl Craig on carving a lane for Black electronic music

You can’t talk about Detroit’s African American techno roots without talking about pioneering producer Carl Craig. A leading figure in the second wave of Detroit techno, Craig talks about the city’s history in techno music. Plus, he discusses the importance and influence of the Black music experience locally and globally.

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. examines gospel music’s rich history in new PBS docuseries ‘GOSPEL’

A new PBS docuseries, “GOSPEL,” from Henry Louis Gates, Jr. delves into the origins and influence of gospel music on Black spirituality. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Stacey L. Holman, the director and producer of the docuseries, about gospel’s rich history, its impact on the Black church, Detroit’s connection to the genre, and how other music genres have been influenced by gospel.

‘GOSPEL’ docuseries, Techno pioneer Carl Craig, 2024 Sphinx Competition winner | American Black Journal

Kick off Black History Month with a look at three music genres and their connection to the African American experience. “GOSPEL” producer/director Stacey Holman discusses the new PBS docuseries featuring Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Pioneering techno producer Carl Craig talks about techno’s African American roots in Detroit. Plus, a performance by 2024 Sphinx Competition Senior Division winner Nathan Amaral.

Some young African Americans are moving away from the church toward individualized faith | Black Church in Detroit

Roughly three in ten young African Americans say they’re religiously unaffiliated. Host Stephen Henderson leads a conversation with three Detroit ministers on the changing faith practices of young African Americans, the growing trend to identify as spiritual instead of religious, and how religious leaders can bridge the generational divides in the Black Church.

Northern Michigan Trauma Camp takes alternative approach to helping returning citizens with re-entry

A retreat in Northern Michigan called Trauma Camp helps returning citizens re-adjust to life after they are released from prison. One Detroit senior producer Bill Kubota and contributor Mario Bueno talk with Trauma Camp creator Aaron Kinzel and some of its attendees about how the retreat is helping them with re-entry and to heal their traumas from childhood and incarceration.

FDA approves two groundbreaking new gene therapy treatments for sickle cell disease

Host Stephen Henderson examines the groundbreaking new gene therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment option for sickle cell disease. Dr. Melissa Creary, assistant professor at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, sits down with Henderson to talk about the pros, cons and possible barriers of the new gene-editing therapy.

Sickle cell disease treatment, Returning citizens’ Trauma Camp, DJ Drummer B | American Black Journal

University of Michigan professor Dr. Melissa Creary shares two groundbreaking new gene therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment option for sickle cell disease. A Trauma Camp in Northern Michigan helps returning citizens adjust to life outside of prison. Plus, a performance by a member of the second generation of Detroit’s techno community, DJ Drummer B.

The AR-15 – The Gun that Divides a Nation | A conversation with Washington Post journalists

Three Washington Post journalists sit down for a conversation with University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy Dean Celeste Watkins-Hayes to talk about gun policies in America and their reporting on “The gun that divides a nation – revered as a modern-day musket; reviled as a tool for mass killers.”

Detroit Police Department Chief James White discusses drop in the city’s violent crimes in 2023 | American Black Journal

The city of Detroit saw a decrease in violent crimes in 2023. Host Stephen Henderson examines the 2023 crime data from the Detroit Police Department with Detroit Police Chief James White. They talk about the strategies that contributed to the reduction in homicides, non-fatal shootings and carjackings compared to 2022.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium | Keynote Memorial Lecture featuring Michelle Alexander

The University of Michigan hosts its 2024 symposium honoring civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The annual symposium’s theme calls on the community to grapple with the nature of ongoing discord around the globe and to examine how society can create a world where harmony is possible. Michelle Alexander, legal scholar, social justice advocate, columnist at The New York Times and visiting professor at Union Theological Seminary, delivers the memorial keynote lecture.

Two-day tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. shared the arts’ impact on civil rights

Wayne State University’s annual tribute to the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. returns this year with a two-day event showcasing the impact of Detroit’s arts, culture and music on the civil rights movement. Guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes talks with Wayne State’s Director of Community Affairs Stacie Clayton and the event’s special guest Santita Jackson.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan awards latest round of Racial Equity Fund grants

United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM) President & CEO Dr. Darienne Hudson shares details with guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes about the latest round of Racial Equity Fund recipients. The grants total $1 million and were awarded to BIPOC-led nonprofit organizations to help them address racial inequities in the region. Plus, they talk about the expansion of the fund into Washtenaw County.

Wayne State Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. tribute, United Way Racial Equity Fund | American Black Journal

In honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, get the details about Wayne State University’s two-day tribute to Dr. King’s life and legacy. The events will explore the impact of the arts, music and culture on the civil rights movement. Plus, United Way for Southeastern Michigan shares details about the latest round of Racial Equity Fund grants to eliminate racial disparities in the region.

Year in Review: Notable conversations and guests from 2023 | American Black Journal

From commemorating the anniversary of a historic civil rights march to conversations around police brutality, African Americans’ contributions to the arts, the impact of climate change on Black and brown communities, and stories on Detroit’s Black church community, American Black Journal reflects on some of its significant stories from 2023.

American Black Journal’s Top 10 Stories of 2023

As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s impossible not to reflect on the important stories that shaped the African American community this year. From commemorating the anniversary of a historic civil rights march to conversations around police brutality, the political heartbeat of hip-hop’s history, the restoration of a historic jazz club, and stories on Detroit’s Black church community, here are our top 10 stories from 2023.

Black church leaders discuss their top 2024 priorities for their congregations and community | American Black Journal

Heading into 2024, the “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the focus areas, issues and opportunities that lie ahead in the new year for leaders of Detroit’s Black churches. Three Detroit ministers talk about increasing outreach, encouraging voter participation, eradicating gun violence in the community, and the importance of working together to bring about change.

Rose Morton unravels her family’s history of slavery in her book ‘Our Family’s Keepers’

For many African Americans, tracing their family’s past can come with challenges. Contributor Daijah Moss talks with author Rose Morton, a local woman who set out to learn about her enslaved ancestors and the families that owned them. Morton shares her quest for identity, talks about her book “Our Family’s Keepers,” and discusses the profound impact of her discovery on the people connected to a South Carolina plantation.

Tracing your family roots: The unique challenges faced by African Americans

Internationally known genealogist Tony Burroughs, who has consulted with celebrities such as Smokey Robinson and Oprah Winfrey about their family history, outlines the steps to take when researching your ancestry and shares some of the unique challenges of tracing African American roots.

Rose Morton’s Family Roots, Tracing Black Ancestry, Robert Smalls Graphic Novel | American Black Journal

Author Rose Morton shares her journey of learning about her enslaved ancestors and the families that owned them. Internationally known genealogist Tony Burroughs outlines the steps to take when researching your ancestry. Plus, Rob Edwards discusses his graphic novel “Defiant” coming out in February 2024 detailing a little-known figure of America’s Black history: Robert Smalls.

One Detroit Weekend: December 15, 2023

The holidays are in full swing and there’s a ton of activities happening around town. Catch the Farmington Players’ production of “A Nice Family Christmas.” Mannheim Steamroller makes a stop at the Fox Theatre for its Christmas tour. Plus, boost your culinary skills at Marrow Butcher Shop & Restaurant’s holiday charcuterie building workshop. See what’s coming up on “One Detroit Weekend.”

Global Detroit shares the importance of immigrant inclusion in Michigan’s population revitalization

Michigan’s population stagnation and economic prosperity have been front and center for several businesses, organizations and educational institutions. Global Detroit Managing Director Dr. Alaina Jackson talks about the organization’s mission to drive the growth, revitalization and shared prosperity of Detroit and the region by focusing on immigrants and global talent.

Remembering the legacy of African American minister Rev. Dr. Charles G. Adams

Detroit and the nation are mourning the loss of one of this country’s most influential Black ministers. Rev. Dr. Charles G. Adams, pastor emeritus of Detroit’s Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, passed away at age 86. Rev. Charles Christian Adams, the son of Rev. Adams, talks about his father’s legacy after more than 50 years in the pulpit.

Rev. Charles G. Adams’ legacy, Growing Michigan’s prosperity with Global Detroit | American Black Journal

Detroit and the nation are mourning the loss of one of this country’s most influential African American ministers. Rev. Dr. Charles G. Adams, of Detroit’s Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, passed away at age 86. Host Stephen Henderson discusses Adams’ legacy with his son Rev. Charles Christian Adams. Plus, Global Detroit talks about how immigrants can help revitalize Detroit and the region.

Rob Edwards’ forthcoming graphic novel details a little-known story in America’s Black history

Detroit-born screenwriter Rob Edwards has a new graphic novel coming out in February 2024 detailing a little-known figure of America’s Black history: Robert Smalls. Edwards joined One Detroit’s Chris Jordan at Comics & More to talk about his forthcoming graphic novel “Defiant,” its Kickstarter support, and why a comic book is a perfect, if unorthodox, way to teach kids Black history.

Helping the homeless during the holidays, Cranbrook Museum’s Black realism exhibit | American Black Journal

Two Detroit nonprofits talk about the current state of homelessness and poverty in Detroit and how they’re working to provide help and hope for the less fortunate during the holidays and beyond. Plus, Cranbrook Art Museum unveils a new exhibit, “Skilled Labor: Black Realism in Detroit,” an exhibit created by 20 contemporary artists who explore the representation of the Black body in art.

Two Detroit nonprofits offer resources for people experiencing homelessness during the holidays

The holidays are a lonely time for the homeless and disadvantaged, a population that’s increased across Michigan over the last few years for myriad reasons. Two Detroit nonprofits about the current state of homelessness and poverty in Detroit and how they’re working to provide help and hope for the less fortunate during the holidays and beyond.

Shifting faith: Growing trend of young Black Americans embracing spirituality over religion | Black Church in Detroit

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.

The state of Black real estate development in Detroit | American Black Journal

“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.

National Family Caregivers Month, Black Friday Scholarship Bootcamp | American Black Journal

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.

10th Annual Black Friday Scholarship Bootcamp offers educational opportunities rather than shopping sprees

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.

Addressing the critical needs of caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month 

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.

Michigan’s higher education experts discuss college access, equity for communities of color

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 CEO, Higher education access, Detroit EV Mobility Program | American Black Journal

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.

Blast Detroit’s EV Automotive Mobility Program prepares Detroiters for an electrified 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.

Latest Episodes

Northern Michigan Trauma Camp takes alternative approach to helping returning citizens with re-entry

Northern Michigan Trauma Camp takes alternative approach to helping returning citizens with re-entry

A retreat in Northern Michigan called Trauma Camp helps returning citizens re-adjust to life after they are released from prison. One Detroit senior producer Bill Kubota and contributor Mario Bueno talk with Trauma Camp creator Aaron Kinzel and some of its attendees about how the retreat is helping them with re-entry and to heal their traumas from childhood and incarceration.

read more
FDA approves two groundbreaking new gene therapy treatments for sickle cell disease

FDA approves two groundbreaking new gene therapy treatments for sickle cell disease

Host Stephen Henderson examines the groundbreaking new gene therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment option for sickle cell disease. Dr. Melissa Creary, assistant professor at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, sits down with Henderson to talk about the pros, cons and possible barriers of the new gene-editing therapy.

read more
Sickle cell disease treatment, Returning citizens’ Trauma Camp, DJ Drummer B | American Black Journal

Sickle cell disease treatment, Returning citizens’ Trauma Camp, DJ Drummer B | American Black Journal

University of Michigan professor Dr. Melissa Creary shares two groundbreaking new gene therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment option for sickle cell disease. A Trauma Camp in Northern Michigan helps returning citizens adjust to life outside of prison. Plus, a performance by a member of the second generation of Detroit’s techno community, DJ Drummer B.

read more
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium |  Keynote Memorial Lecture featuring Michelle Alexander

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium | Keynote Memorial Lecture featuring Michelle Alexander

The University of Michigan hosts its 2024 symposium honoring civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The annual symposium’s theme calls on the community to grapple with the nature of ongoing discord around the globe and to examine how society can create a world where harmony is possible. Michelle Alexander, legal scholar, social justice advocate, columnist at The New York Times and visiting professor at Union Theological Seminary, delivers the memorial keynote lecture.

read more
Two-day tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. shared the arts’ impact on civil rights

Two-day tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. shared the arts’ impact on civil rights

Wayne State University’s annual tribute to the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. returns this year with a two-day event showcasing the impact of Detroit’s arts, culture and music on the civil rights movement. Guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes talks with Wayne State’s Director of Community Affairs Stacie Clayton and the event’s special guest Santita Jackson.

read more
United Way for Southeastern Michigan awards latest round of Racial Equity Fund grants

United Way for Southeastern Michigan awards latest round of Racial Equity Fund grants

United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM) President & CEO Dr. Darienne Hudson shares details with guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes about the latest round of Racial Equity Fund recipients. The grants total $1 million and were awarded to BIPOC-led nonprofit organizations to help them address racial inequities in the region. Plus, they talk about the expansion of the fund into Washtenaw County.

read more
Wayne State Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. tribute, United Way Racial Equity Fund | American Black Journal

Wayne State Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. tribute, United Way Racial Equity Fund | American Black Journal

In honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, get the details about Wayne State University’s two-day tribute to Dr. King’s life and legacy. The events will explore the impact of the arts, music and culture on the civil rights movement. Plus, United Way for Southeastern Michigan shares details about the latest round of Racial Equity Fund grants to eliminate racial disparities in the region.

read more

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