Mama Imara, a proud and confident gardener in Southwest Detroit, embodies the balance of one of the most poignant and strategic minds in community activism, always accompanied by a life-filled laugh and smile. As a member of Detroiters for Tax Justice, she advocates for her beloved city, driven by a lifelong love of books and libraries. As a child, Mama Imara saw libraries as castles full of fairy tales, information, and more. However, the tax captures from the executive administration have left her cherished branch closed for years, fueling her commitment to the cause. Her work continues the legacy of the League of Revolutionary Workers, movements for Black Studies in high schools and colleges, the Republic of New Afrika, and the Shrine of the Black Madonna. Discover more about Mama Imara and her vital contributions to the community.

The impact of Detroit politics on American politics, focusing on the upcoming August primary election featuring a Hollywood star. Hill Harper, who gained insights into community leadership and the Black power base in Detroit while studying at Harvard Law, has decided to run for office. Inspired by legends like Congressman Conyers, Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, and Congressman Charles Diggs, Harper learned about their significant contributions to the city from two classmates. Now, as he raises his son, Harper has chosen to move to Detroit and aims to empower Michigan if elected. We delve into his vision for Detroit and why he believes it’s crucial to advocate for the city.

In this episode of Detroit is Different, we delve into the journey of Tepfirah Rushdan, Detroit’s Director of Sustainability, whose love for camping blossomed into a career dedicated to sustainable land use for Detroiters. A Cass Tech graduate rooted in the 7 Mile and Wyoming neighborhood, Tepfirah shares her insights on self-sustainability and community reliance through farming. As a founding member of the Detroit Black Farmer Land Fund, she has become an expert in urban agriculture and land access, advocating passionately for Black people to join her in this journey. Tune in to hear Tepfirah’s inspiring story and her vision for a more sustainable Detroit.

Writing and storytelling are talents that Rocki Harris has passionately developed into professional skill sets. Raised on Detroit’s Eastside, with a grandmother dedicated to teaching grammar, writing, and language, Rocki has loved words for a lifetime. Today, she hosts Rocki’s Reality Podcast, which airs on Rocki’s Reality YouTube and Facebook accounts on Thursday nights, podcasting live in the studio from Detroit is Different Studios. In this feature, she opens up about her understanding of the Mack neighborhood, her experiences at Cass Tech and U of M in the late 1990s, and much more. Learn how her writing and social work background have led her into journalism and beyond. Check out this Detroit is Different feature with Rocki Harris, host and producer of Rocki’s Reality Podcast.

In the 1990s, Detroit had a profound impact on Moudou Baqui and his entire family. They had moved from Tennessee to escape racism and limited opportunities, eventually establishing roots in Detroit. The Petty family began to settle in Detroit when the land beyond 8 Mile Road was still farmland, owned and cultivated by them. This included the area where the Kroger at 8 Mile and Wyoming now stands, which was seized through eminent domain, resulting in the loss of 40 acres of farmland. Moudou’s family history is a testament to Black independence and resilience in the face of the systemic challenges imposed by America. Moudou, born Justin Petty, has a story that intertwines civil rights, street life, Black liberation, African-centered education, and healing, reminiscent of a modern-day Forrest Gump. In this interview, he shares his insights on healing, movement, and much more. Tune in to “Detroit is Different” with Moudou Baqui to learn more about his remarkable journey.

Inkster, MI, became a suburban destination for Black families in the Metro Detroit region in the 1970s. Jason Turner’s family moved there in the late 1960s. Today, Jason works within his community alongside his family, focusing on creativity and community initiatives. He is a founding member of Building Black Brick Masters, an intergenerational Black men’s community organizing group. Jason shares his experiences of navigating two realities after his parents separated, reflecting on how street life, photography, and recreation have all played significant roles in his life.

Community engagement, advocacy, and social change are lifelong passions for Alexa and Johnnie Turnage. They share how a chance meeting on a flight to Detroit led to a friendship that blossomed into marriage. The Turnages’ Black Tech Saturdays has evolved into a national effort. In this interview, they discuss how this initiative aligns with their shared passion for using technology to unite communities around social change. They also delve into how their family roots have inspired them to build and develop community, and highlight how Johnnie’s mom was ahead of her time in website development and coding. Tune in to “Detroit is Different” with Alexa and Johnnie Turnage, founders of Black Tech Saturdays, for more insights.

Collective enjoyment, live entertainment, dancing, and Prince music have made Detroit summers popular for years. On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Build Institute will host an interactive and fun fundraiser at the Aretha Amphitheater, featuring the extraordinary drummer Sheila E. Regina Ann Campbell, CEO of Build Institute, will join us to discuss the fundraiser and much more. Discover how Build Institute is expanding its business development services to help businesses grow! We’ll also explore the relationship between Build Institute, Detroit is Different, and community engagement. This is a fun and engaging conversation. Tune in to Detroit is Different with Regina Ann Campbell, CEO of Build Institute