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<p>In case you missed it, this year&#8217;s Detroit Regional Chamber&#8217;s Mackinac Policy Conference is now online.  Check out the line-up of sessions and watch on demand.</p>


2024 Mackinac Policy Conference

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Latest Episodes

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We’ll bring you a portion of the 2024 Detroit Future City Equity Forum, which focused on making sure African Americans and other minorities in Detroit get equitable access to quality jobs and careers in Michigan. Host Stephen Henderson moderates an important conversation with four workforce changemakers about how they are helping to advance economic equity for Detroiters now and into the future.

Detroit Future City's Equity Forum focuses on equitable employment for African Americans.

Excerpts from the Detroit Future City 2024 Equity Forum

Ahead of the 2024 election, American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the role Black churches play in the election and how faith intersects with politics. Guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes talks with Rev. Dr. Georgia Hill of LifeChurch Riverside Detroit, Rev. Lawrence Rodgers from Second Baptist Church of Detroit, and Rev. Ralph Godbee, Jr. of Triumph Church.

Faith and politics: Detroit’s Black churches mobilize voters ahead of the 2024 election.

Detroit’s Black churches mobilize voters for 2024 election

We've teamed up with BridgeDetroit for a special episode on the restoration of Malcolm X's former home in Inkster. BridgeDetroit reporter Micah Walker visits the home during the renovation and speaks with some of the people behind the preservation project. Plus, host Stephen Henderson learns about the history of the house and what visitors will experience at the future museum.

A special report on the restoration of Malcolm X’s former home in Inkster, Michigan.

The restoration of Malcolm X’s former Inkster home

restoration of Malcolm X’s former Inkster home

We're celebrating major milestones for two organizations in the Detroit area. The Church of the Messiah Detroit commemorates its 150th anniversary with a Nov 1. gala. Judson Center, a metro Detroit nonprofit human services agency, celebrates its 100th anniversary. Plus, a tour of Detroit’s automotive history at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum.

Church of the Messiah Detroit’s 150th, Judson Center’s 100th and the Ford Piquette Museum.

Church Messiah 150th, Judson Center 100th, Ford Piquette

A look at the Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Fat Ham” at Detroit Public Theatre. Host Stephen Henderson talks with the play’s lead actor, Duane Shabazz, and the theater’s Marketing Manager Garlia Jones. Plus, contributor Cecelia Sharpe sits down with actor Roger Guenveur Smith at The Wright Museum in Detroit to talk about his collaborations with Spike Lee and the impact of literature on his career.

“Fat Ham” at Detroit Public Theatre and a conversation with actor Roger Guenveur Smith.

‘Fat Ham’ play in Detroit, Actor Roger Guenveur Smith

Stephen Henderson talks with The LEE Group President & CEO Mark S. Lee about the backlash against DEI efforts in the workplace. The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County secures a new home in Ann Arbor. Plus, PBS News Hour Student Reporting Labs Gwen Ifill Legacy Fellow Maria Witcher explores the high cost of housing and how it could drive young voters to the polls.

Backlash against DEI, AACHM’s new home and the cost of housing’s impact on young voters.

Backlash against DEI, AACHM’s new home, Cost of housing

The Black church has always been a place people turn to for healing, comfort and funeral services to say final goodbyes. Host Stephen Henderson talks with three members of Detroit's religious community about the Black church's response to death and the responsibilities placed on faith leaders. The group also discusses the church's response to deaths that have been the result of violence.

A conversation on the role of ministers who provide pastoral care during and after death.

The Black Church in Detroit’s response to death

Black Church in Detroit’s response to death

For National Suicide Prevention Month, NAMI Michigan Executive Director Kevin Fischer discusses efforts to combat mental illness stigma and suicide. Caleb’s Kids Founder and CEO Kiesha Jackson shares how losing her brother to suicide inspired her to create her organization. Plus, details on the 5th annual Detroit Black Film Festival and Taste of Black Spirits National Conference.

National Suicide Prevention Month, Caleb’s Kids and the Detroit Black Film Festival.

Suicide Prevention Month, Caleb’s Kids, Black Film Festival

A new book, “The Spirit of Justice: True Stories of Faith, Race and Resistance,” by historian and New York Times bestselling author Jemar Tisby tells the untold stories of Black activists in the fight against racism. Plus, September is Black Reading Month Co-Founder Malik Yakini discusses the observance’s 45-year history, its goals and literacy issues in this country.

“The Spirit of Justice” author Jemar Tisby and September is Black Reading Month.

‘The Spirit of Justice,’ September is Black Reading Month

The “Black Church in Detroit” series explores the partnership between schools and the faith-based community. Guest host Trudy-Gallant Stokes explores how Black churches support students’ education. Plus, August is National Black Business Month. Gallant-Stokes learns about the current challenges and opportunities for Black business owners in Detroit.

The “Black Church in Detroit” and education, National Black Business Month.

The Black Church & Education, National Black Business Month

Black Church & Education, National Black Business Month

The Detroit Jazz Festival’s Chris Collins talks about the 2024 lineup and the festival’s impact on Detroit. Wayne State University’s Patrick Lindsey discusses the opening of the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center. This year’s Jazz Festival poster by artist Jess Fendo is revealed. Plus, a performance by the festival’s artist-in-residence Brian Blade and The Fellowship Band.

A Preview of the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival

Preview of the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival

Preview BridgeDetroit’s upcoming Community Conversation on housing and home repairs in Detroit. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Detroit Poet Laureate jessica Care moore about her love of poetry and its impact on people. Plus, the second annual Collard Green Cook-Off Championship, which celebrates the cultural significance of collard greens in the Black community, is coming up in Detroit.

BridgeDetroit’s Community Conversation, Detroit’s Poet Laureate, Collard Green Cook-off.

Home repairs, Detroit Poet Laureate, Collard Green Cook-off

A unique traveling art exhibit, “Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin,” created by Detroit artist Sabrina Nelson has made its way to The Charles H. Wright Museum. Marygrove Conservancy in Detroit is gearing up for its 2024 Campus Summer Fest. Plus, kids are learning to cook nutritious meals in the Downtown Boxing Gym’s new commercial kitchen with a well-known Detroit chef, Molly Mitchell.

James Baldwin exhibit at The Wright, Marygrove Campus Summer Fest, Downtown Boxing Gym.

James Baldwin art, Campus Summer Fest, Downtown Boxing Gym

In light of the recent shooting of 21 people at a block party on Detroit’s east side, American Black Journal’s "Black Church in Detroit" series examines the spiritual response to gun violence and how the church and community can work together to eradicate it. Plus, “American Black Journal” remembers Motown music legend Duke Fakir, who passed away recently at the age of 88.

Detroit’s Black churches rally support after mass shooting and The Four Tops’ Duke Fakir.

Detroit’s Black churches respond to gun violence

Examine the high number of maternal deaths in Michigan and the disproportionate impact on Black mothers. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Dawn Shanafelt, Director of the Division of Maternal & Infant Health in the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. Plus, United Way for Southeastern Michigan and Ballmer Group unveil the new Summer Discovery program to combat summer learning loss.

Maternal mortality rates in Michigan and United Way’s free Summer Discovery program.

Maternal mortality rates, Summer Discovery program

Meet Forgotten Harvest’s new CEO, Adrian Lewis. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Lewis about how the food rescue organization is helping to feed families and seniors over the summer, its new facility and its client choice market. Plus, learn about Detroit’s reparations efforts from “American Black Journal” and BridgeDetroit’s virtual town hall, "Making Amends: The Quest for Reparations."

Meet Forgotten Harvest’s new CEO Adrian Lewis and a conversation on reparations.

Forgotten Harvest CEO Adrian Lewis, Reparations town hall

Preview the 18th annual ARISE! Detroit Neighborhoods Day. ARISE Detroit! Executive Director Luther Keith talks about this year’s event and the new “My Neighborhood Matters” campaign. Get details on the 41st annual African World Festival July 12-14 at Detroit’s Hart Plaza. Plus, jazz artist Sky Covington sings “All of Me,” accompanied by musicians John Douglas and Club Crescendo.

ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day, African World Festival and jazz artist Sky Covington.

Neighborhoods Day, African World Festival, Sky Covington

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.

A conversation with poet Nikki Giovanni and an eight-year-old Detroit girl’s viral story.

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

June marks Black Music Month. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Rev. Larry Simmons of Baber Memorial AME Church and Dr. Brandon Waddles from Wayne State University about the history and influence of African American religious music. Contributor Daijah Moss attends the 17th annual Silence the Violence march where families honor loved ones lost and advance efforts to eradicate gun violence.

Black religious music’s influence and the 17th annual Silence the Violence march.

Black Music Month, 17th annual Silence the Violence march

The exhibit “Tiff Massey: 7 Mile + Livernois” at the Detroit Institute of Arts pays homage to Black Detroiters’ style and culture.  Host Stephen Henderson talks with Massey about the sculptures she created to celebrate Black Detroiters. Plus, Detroit Association of Black Organizations’ CEO Rev. Horace Sheffield III shares details about a free Community Empowerment Speaker Series.

“Tiff Massey: 7 Mile + Livernois” exhibit and DABO’s Community Empowerment Speaker Series.

‘7 Mile + Livernois,’ Community Empowerment Speaker Series

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The "Black Church in Detroit" series examines the church's role in providing a safe place and support for young people struggling with mental health challenges. We'll talk about the reasons for the growing rates of depression, loneliness, anxiety and suicides among young African Americans and how the church can lead the way in promoting mental wellness.

Black churches provide sanctuary and support for youth facing mental health challenges.

Black churches provide sanctuary, support for mental health

Acclaimed actress CCH Pounder visits Detroit to talk about her personal art collection on display at the Charles H. Wright Museum. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Pounder about her “Double ID” exhibit. Plus, a Detroit nonprofit gets a new name and its first Black leader. Henderson talks with the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion’s new Co-Executive Director, Yusef Bunchy Shakur.

CCH Pounder’s art exhibit at The Wright, Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion.

CCH Pounder art exhibit, Michigan Roundtable new leadership

The Detroit Branch NAACP’s 69th annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit features President Joe Biden as the keynote speaker, marking only the second time a sitting U.S. President has given the keynote. Plus, May is Mental Health Awareness Month and “American Black Journal” examines the unique challenges the Black community faces in navigating mental health issu

The Detroit NAACP Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner and May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner, Mental Health Awareness Month

Host Stephen Henderson talks with current Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley about the 10-year anniversary of the Flint water crisis. Plus, Henderson talks with the founder of the Small Business Workshop, Mark S. Lee, President & CEO of The LEE Group, and Tawnya Rose, Vice President & Community Impact Manager at Fifth Third Bank, about the 10th annual event.

A decade after the Flint water crisis and a preview of the 2024 Small Business Workshop.

Flint water crisis 10 years later, Small Business Workshop

For National Minority Health Month, American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the efforts of the Black church to provide resources, referrals and respite for family caregivers. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Marilyn French Hubbard, project manager for the Detroit Family Caregivers' Project, and Rev. Dr. Georgia Hill, pastor of LifeChurch Riverside.

Detroit Family Caregivers’ Project creates caregiving ministries in local Black churches.

Caregiving ministries created in Detroit’s Black churches

For National Minority Health Month, Dr. Hayley Thompson, director of Wayne State University's CHECK-UP, talks with host Stephen Henderson about the efforts to tackle health inequities in Detroit and Michigan. Plus, Visit Detroit President and CEO Claude Molinari and Faye Nelson from the Detroit Sports Organizing Corp share how the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit will impact tourism in the city.

National Minority Health Month and the NFL Draft’s impact on tourism in Detroit.

National Minority Health Month, 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit

The Wolverine Bar Association hosts its 62nd annual Barristers' Ball, a cornerstone event in Detroit's African American legal community. Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump discusses the need for justice and equality in contemporary society during The Wright Conversations. Plus, Detroit Jazz Festival 2024 artist-in-residence Brian Blade and The Fellowship Band perform.

The Wolverine Bar’s Barristers’ Ball, attorney Ben Crump and jazz drummer Brian Blade.

Barristers’ Ball, Attorney Ben Crump, Brian Blade performs

A local documentary, “The Best of the Best: Jazz from Detroit,” explores Detroit’s jazz legacy and impact on the world. Host Stephen Henderson talks with the film’s co-producer and writer. Plus, the Detroit Institute of Arts’ “Regeneration: Black Cinema 1898-1971" exhibit highlights the trailblazing Black filmmakers and actors from the early days of cinema through the Civil Rights Movement.

‘The Best of the Best: Jazz from Detroit,” film, “Regeneration” Black cinema exhibit.

'Jazz from Detroit’ film, ‘Regeneration’ Black films exhibit

The Wayne State University School of Medicine, the Wayne Mobile Health Unit and community stakeholders host a symposium on Black men’s health at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church on April 13. Plus, the 20th annual Bookstock returns to Laurel Park Place in Livonia, Michigan on April 7-14, bringing with it nearly 400,000 used books, DVDs, CDs, books on tape, and vinyl records for sale.

Wayne State University’s Black men’s health symposium and the 20th annual Bookstock.

Black men’s health symposium, Bookstock 2024

It's Women's History Month and our "Black Church in Detroit" series examines the role of women in the Black church. We'll talk about their vital contributions to the church as well as the challenges that exist for women pastors and those in other leadership positions.   

Episode 5213

Women in the Black Church

Nikki Giovanni, Rosie White’s Black history impersonations

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.

Detroit’s Neighborhood Vitality Index and Ruth E. Carter’s exhibit at the Wright Museum.

Detroit Neighborhood Vitality Index, Ruth E. Carter exhibit

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.

Grow Detroit’s Young Talent summer jobs program and Detroit DJ Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale.

Grow Detroit’s Young Talent, DJ Stacey ‘Hotwaxx’ Hale

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.

Two Detroit ministers discuss artificial intelligence’s impact on the Black community.

Artificial intelligence’s impact on the Black community

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.

Heart disease in Black women, The Carr Center’s new exhibit, and the NFL Draft in Detroit.

American Heart Month, Celebrating Black Arts, 2024 NFL Draft

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.

American Black Journal explores Detroit’s impact on gospel music and Black spirituality.

Gospel music’s origins, evolution and history in Detroit

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 Am

A new PBS “GOSPEL” docuseries, techno producer Carl Craig and violinist Nathan Amaral.

‘GOSPEL’ series, Carl Craig, 2024 Sphinx Competition winner

Roughly three in ten young African Americans say they’re religiously unaffiliated, according to a Pew Research study. 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.

Black Church leaders discuss the changing faith practices of young African Americans.

The Black church, the younger generation and the unchurched

Black church, the younger generation and the unchurched

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

New sickle cell disease treatments, a trauma camp for returning citizens and DJ Drummer

New sickle cell disease treatment, Returning citizens Trauma

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.

Detroit Police Chief James White discusses the city’s 2023 decrease in violent crimes.

Detroit Police record a drop in violent crimes during 2023

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.

Wayne State’s tribute to Dr. King, United Way for Southeast Michigan’s Racial Equity Fund.

Wayne State MLK tribute, United Way Racial Equity Fund

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 thought-provoking conversations and notable guests from 2023.

Year in review: ABJ’s notable 2023 stories

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. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Detroit ministers about increasing outreach, encouraging voter participation, eradicating gun violence in the community, and the importance of working together to bring about change.

Leaders of Detroit’s Black churches discuss their top priorities going into the new year.

Black church leaders shares their top priorities for 2024

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.

Rose Morton, tracing African American family genealogy, and Rob Edwards’ graphic novel.

Rose Morton, Tracing your roots, Robert Smalls graphic novel

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.

Rev. Dr. Charles G. Adams’ legacy, and immigrants’ impact on Michigan’s population growth.

Rev. Charles G. Adams’ legacy, Michigan’s population growth

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.

Resources for the homeless during the holidays and Cranbrook Art Museum’s new exhibit.

Homeless during the holidays, Black realism at Cranbrook

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.

There’s a growing trend of young Black Americans embracing spirituality over religion.

Young Black Americans embrace spirituality over religion

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 Black Church in Detroit discusses the Mideast conflict and interfaith relationships.

The Israel-Hamas conflict and Interfaith relationships

Israel-Hamas conflict and Interfaith relationships

Trailblazing operatic tenor George Shirley talks with contributor Cecelia Sharpe of 90.9 WRCJ about his entry into opera and his history as a music educator. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Michael Carrauthers about how the Nu Omega Detroit Chapter of Omega Psi Phi is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Plus, the Minerva Education and Development Foundation celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Opera tenor George Shirley, Omega Psi Phi Detroit’s 100th and MEDF’s 30th anniversary.

Opera tenor George Shirley, Omega Psi Phi 100th, MEDF 30th

Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter showcases her illustrious career as a costume designer in a new exhibit, “Ruth E. Carter: 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 current and future landscape of dance.

Ruth E. Carter’s Afrofuturism exhibit and Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Detroit performances.

Ruth Carter exhibit at The Wright, Dance Theatre of Harlem

A historic jazz club in Detroit is getting a massive renovation, thanks to the nonprofit Detroit Sound Conservancy. In recognition of World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, experts from CNS Healthcare and Judson Center address mental health issues in the African American community. And, we examine the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health and how social media can be used positively.

Blue Bird Inn jazz club, World Mental Health Day, social media and teens' mental health.

Blue Bird Inn, World Mental Health Day, Teens’ mental health

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.

The barriers of re-entry for the wrongfully convicted and The Yunion’s 20th anniversary.

Michigan exonerees’ fundraiser, The Yunion 20th anniversary

The “Black Church in Detroit” series examines how the latest technology trends are shaping the present and future of the Black Church. Plus, two Detroit pastors delve into the thought-provoking realm of artificial intelligence. Then, in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month in September, “American Black Journal” contributor Angela Brown talks with Caleb’s Kids Founder and CEO Kiesha Jackson.

The impact of technology and artificial intelligence in the Black Church and Caleb’s Kids.

Technology trends in the Black Church, Caleb’s Kids

As students settle in for the fall semester, Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti sits down with host Stephen Henderson on the grounds of DPSCD's The School at Marygrove. Then, in a previously aired interview, Henderson talks with Malik Yakini, co-founder of September is Black Reading Month, about the annual observance. 

Episode 5138

DPS Community District/Black Reading Month

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.

The “Black Church in Detroit” explores the current state of civil rights 60 years later.

The Black Church and civil rights, Detroit City of Peace

Black Church and civil rights, Detroit City of Peace

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.

Motown Records captures Dr. King’s speeches in Detroit, and a tribute to Motown’s legacy.

Motown civil rights recordings, Motown cover song contest

Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation President Chris Collins and artist Brittini Ward, who created this year’s official Jazz Festival poster, speak with “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson to 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.

Artist Brittini Ward unveils the inspiration behind the 2023 Detroit Jazz Festival poster.

2023 Detroit Jazz Festival preview and poster reveal

Focus: HOPE is expanding its Food for Seniors program to assist more seniors who are experiencing food insecurity with the addition of 43 new sites across Southeast Michigan. 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 Detroit filmmaker Ozi Uduma’s film “Detroit We Dey.”

Focus: HOPE’s seniors food program, Maria Rosario Jackson, Detroit’s Nigerian community.

Seniors food program, NEA chair, Detroit Nigerian community

Michigan Diversity Council Executive Director Darlene King-Turner previews the organization's annual National Black Men in Leadership Summit and this year’s theme, “The Legacy of Black Leadership and Excellence.” Plus, host Stephen Henderson delves into the importance of young children reading over the summer to help curb learning loss through Brilliant Detroit’s citywide summer literacy program.

The Michigan Diversity Council’s annual summit and summer reading with Brilliant Detroit.

National Black Men in Leadership Summit, Brilliant Detroit

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.

Addressing the issues impacting African Americans today and advocating for change.

The power of the prophetic voice in the Black Church

power of the prophetic voice in the Black Church

“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 and the challenges of finding affordable housing. Plus, Stephen Henderson leads a roundtable on affordable housing, homelessness and the city’s available resources.

Examining Detroit's affordable housing crisis and its impact on homelessness in the city.

How Detroit's affordable housing crisis impacts homelessness

The 17th annual ARISE Detroit! Neighborhoods Day returns Aug. 5 with more than 100 events and community service projects around the city. A 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.

ARISE Detroit! 17th Neighborhoods Day, the 40th African World Festival

Neighborhoods Day, African World Fest, Detroit Food Academy

he "Black Church in Detroit" series examines the role of the city's religious community in the 1963 Detroit Walk to Freedom. Bishop Mbiyu Chui of Shrine of the Black Madonna #1 delves into the often-forgotten connection between the city's Black churches and the fight for civil rights. Plus, Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson of West Side Unity Church reflects on attending the historic march as a child.

Explore the role Detroit’s religious community played in the 1963 Detroit Walk to Freedom.

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