January 2020

Discussion on Community Development with Racial Equity and Healing. Hosted by Yusef Shakur and Khary Frazier

Published on January 30, 2020 in Introduction by Khary Frazier

Racial Healing and Equity in Community Development was a discussion held by the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion led by myself (Khary Frazier) and Yusef Shakur. Tuesday, January 21, 2020, at the Urban Network (2433 Ferry Park Detroit MI 48208) we welcomed a small and impactful group of community-minded activists, thinkers, entrepreneurs, and organizers.

Documenting this discussion naturally led to the realization that more will be needed. Facets of Community Development Block Grants, Community Development Financial Institutions, and Detroit’s polarizing Detroit’s Community Benefits Ordinance were all discussed. This introductory forum served as a way for Yusef Shakur to speak to the racism that has systemically incepted bias towards neighborhood residents. The value of property over people was explored in depth. Philosophy of coping with racism and planning beyond oppression is shared as well.

Questions asked:
In what ways should philanthropists and foundations partner in community development to build neighborhoods? How can residents hold these organizations accountable for racial equity?

In what ways should government and HUD be included in community development that is residentially and racially equitable? How can residents hold government organizations accountable for racial equity?

Art is a Voice and not a Passion for Sabrina Nelson

Published on January 23, 2020 in Introduction by Khary Frazier

“Why You Wanna Fly Blackbird,” is an exhibit by Sabrina Nelson exploring the relationship between Black Women and children they’ve lost. In her, Detroit is Different interview Sabrina shares her story on growing up in Detroit and how Art is her voice. The joy of using designing clothes, painting, drawings, and more as a gateway to developing confidence and identity is explored in this interview.

Visit the “Why You Wanna Fly Blackbird” Exhibit by Sabrina Nelson at Madonna University 36600 Schoolcraft Livonia MI 48150 January 17 – March 16, 2020 (Monday – Thursday 8 am – 12 Mid | Friday & Saturday 10 am – 6 pm)

Curating an Experience: Shed Amin

Published on January 16, 2020 in Introduction by Khary Frazier

Experiencing Detroit nightlife is something that has inspired the dance culture of Germany, has nightclubs mimic the feel in NYC, and from Madonna to Motown has soundtracked parties EVERYWHERE. Shed Amin began creating spaces and places for Michigan State University students from Detroit to gather and now has built a niche and career in the business. If you attend any events sponsored and endorsed by premiere liquor brands featuring Urban entertainment in Metro-Detroit it’s a 90% chance you are at an event Shed Amin is curating. Today the experiences he makes are anchored by the MLK Ski Weekend extravaganza he leads (happening this weekend January 17 – 20, 2020 in Collingwood Ontario CA). In this Detroit is Different interview we explore his background in real estate and interest in events. Shed also shares his perspective of doing business in Detroit and what that looks and feels like today.

Books for the family with Stories for the Soul: SF Hardy

Published on January 9, 2020 in Introduction by Khary Frazier

Imagination is a tool that captures the essence of a child. SF Hardy used her imagination as a tool to teach, guide, and connect with her son. Storytelling was a gateway for the connection with her son to grow stronger. Today (as her son is in college) she uses the stories to help connect parents to their children. Her children’s book ‘Like a Salad’ has received national acclaim and presents the concept of diversity and inclusion to children.

SF Hardy opens up about her story growing up on Detroit’s Eastside in the historic Conant Gardens community. Her story also delves into the experience of being part of one of Crockett Technical HS’s originating graduating classes. SF Hardy also speaks to being part of the African American Studies program at Wayne State University and learning about Black culture internationally, nationally, and locally. This is a great discussion on family, books, and purpose.

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