detroit news

A Detroit couple, Emily Weiss and Gabrielle Durnen, discovered nearly four years after purchasing their home that the Detroit Land Bank Authority claimed interest in their property, threatening to take it away due to an undisclosed agreement from a decade-old mass land sale to developer John Hantz. The situation stems from a 2013 deal where Hantz acquired roughly 2,000 properties with obligations to rehabilitate or demolish them before selling, but these requirements weren't properly fulfilled before homes were resold to individual buyers through intermediary developers. After weeks of pressure and media inquiry, the land bank reversed course and agreed to release its claim on the couple's home, though the incident highlights systemic problems with how the agency makes special arrangements with large developers that create unequal treatment and legal vulnerabilities for ordinary homebuyers. Housing advocates argue the land bank's practice of offering preferential deals to developers while inadequately monitoring compliance creates due process issues and leaves unsuspecting residents vulnerable to losing their homes despite doing everything correctly during the purchase process.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her eighth and final State of the State address in Lansing, highlighting achievements from her tenure while emphasizing bipartisan cooperation, though she faced mixed reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. Her speech focused heavily on addressing housing affordability through regulatory reform, increased construction targets, and tax credits, with plans to build 115,000 new homes by eliminating burdensome regulations. While she celebrated Democratic accomplishments like LGBTQ+ protections and retirement tax repeals, progressive advocates expressed disappointment that promised initiatives, particularly around childcare and truly affordable housing, remained unfulfilled. Whitmer drew particular criticism from some Democrats for praising President Trump's investment in a Macomb County military base while not addressing controversial federal immigration enforcement actions. Republican leaders indicated willingness to collaborate on property tax relief and utility rate reductions, though they criticized increased state spending under Democratic control.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address, outlining priorities for her last year in office while reflecting on seven years of achievements. She emphasized three main focus areas: improving K-12 literacy through universal prekindergarten and evidence-based reading instruction, expanding affordable housing through increased construction and zoning reforms, and protecting healthcare access by addressing medical debt and stabilizing Medicaid funding amid federal cuts. Whitmer highlighted Michigan's progress under her administration, including tax cuts for seniors and workers, infrastructure improvements, expanded education funding, and protections for civil rights and reproductive freedom. Despite national economic uncertainty and political division, she emphasized Michigan's resilience and called for continued bipartisan cooperation to address challenges facing families, young people, and workers.

Detroit Public Schools Community District is exploring multiple new strategies to combat its chronic absenteeism crisis, which affected nearly 61% of students last school year—roughly 30 percentage points above the state average. The district is considering targeted financial incentives like gift cards for families in high-poverty neighborhoods, expanded gas card programs for carpooling, and bicycle distribution programs similar to one that helped reduce absenteeism by over 14 percentage points at one high school. New Mayor Mary Sheffield has begun working with the district on transportation improvements, including potentially expanding city bus routes in areas with the highest absenteeism rates. While the district has made progress reducing chronic absenteeism by nearly 16 percentage points since 2021-22, board members are pushing for additional measures including more attendance agents, stricter early pick-up policies, and community partnerships to address systemic barriers like inadequate transportation and poverty.

Historian and genealogist Dr. Carolyn Carter reflects on how historical silence and erasure have obscured the stories of enslaved and free Black Americans, whose lives were documented merely as property or omitted entirely from official records. She argues that recent restrictions on teaching histories of enslavement and racial violence amount to deliberate erasure rather than avoiding division, as these histories represent actual genealogy and lived experiences for Black families. Carter emphasizes that Black communities have preserved their own memories through alternative archives like family Bibles and oral traditions when excluded from official documentation. She contends that honest confrontation with difficult histories is essential for accountability and that remembering represents dignity and survival rather than burden. The piece asserts that unity built on silence is merely erasure, and that students need to understand historical causes and struggles rather than sanitized outcomes. # Key Takeaways

President Trump delivered a nearly two-hour State of the Union address focusing on his first-year accomplishments while promoting priorities including healthcare reform, immigration restrictions, and voter identification requirements. The speech celebrated Michigan-connected Olympic hockey players, with Trump announcing he would award goaltender Connor Hellebuyck the Presidential Medal of Freedom, though the women's gold medal team declined to attend citing scheduling conflicts. Trump defended his tariff strategy despite a recent Supreme Court defeat, claiming the import taxes are "saving our country," even as economic experts and the Congressional Budget Office have found these costs are largely borne by U.S. companies and consumers rather than foreign nations. The address featured numerous disputed claims about economic performance, drug prices, immigration numbers, and tax policies, with fact-checkers noting exaggerations regarding topics from gas prices to foreign investment commitments. # Key Takeaways

BridgeDetroit and the University of Michigan Detroit Center hosted their third "Workshop of Democracy" event on February 19, bringing together environmental justice activists and advocates to address air quality, water affordability, and related issues in Detroit. Panelists including Monica Lewis-Patrick, Aurora Harris, KT Morelli, Owólabi Aboyade, Nick Leonard, and Shalanda Baker shared their personal journeys into environmental activism while emphasizing the inseparable connection between environmental concerns and social justice in Detroit. The discussion covered obstacles such as privatization, gentrification, and systemic legal failures, while celebrating victories including the closure of Detroit's incinerator and a $100 million settlement with DTE. Participants stressed the importance of grassroots organizing, self-care, community relationships, and using creativity to counter dominant narratives about the city. # Key Takeaways

Detroit educator Jessie Feliz, who grew up in the Brightmoor neighborhood, has established a comprehensive learning center on Schoolcraft that addresses a critical gap in accessible community education. The facility provides afterschool tutoring and enrichment programs for children aged 5-12, while also offering adult language courses and specialized programming for neurodiverse learners, including those on the autism spectrum. With support from a $50,000 Motor City Match grant that funded essential accessibility improvements and building renovations, the center employs four staff members and can serve up to 30 students simultaneously. Feliz developed the center's offerings based on her teaching experience in multiple locations and her personal experience raising an autistic son, creating an inclusive space that addresses the practical needs of Brightmoor families who previously had limited local educational resources. # Key Takeaways

Detroit's Board of Ethics is demanding access to confidential legal memos that examine whether the board can hire its own independent attorney rather than relying on lawyers from the city's Law Department. The board's Executive Director argues that withholding these documents prevents the ethics board from functioning independently and making informed decisions about obtaining separate legal representation. Board members are concerned that using city-assigned attorneys creates conflicts of interest when they investigate mayoral administration officials. While the City Council held a private session to review the memos, the ethics board was excluded from that meeting and continues to be denied access to the documents, despite the council recently releasing other confidential legal opinions on unrelated matters. # Key Takeaways

The Detroit City Council has approved a $444,135 settlement payment to land speculator Michael Kelly in exchange for 28 vacant properties needed for Coleman A. Young Municipal Airport expansion. Kelly rejected two previous offers—initially $74,600 and then $235,086—before the city agreed to the higher settlement amount. Detroit's Law Department justified the increased payment by explaining it avoids the risk of a jury trial potentially awarding even more compensation. The property acquisition is part of an eminent domain project to extend the airport runway, with federal funding covering most costs, and the expansion supports broader airport development initiatives including a new control tower and helicopter tours.

Following a December 2025 electrical outage that forced residents to evacuate the Leland House apartment building in Detroit, a federal bankruptcy judge has approved a plan to temporarily restore power so former tenants can retrieve belongings they left behind. The city's Corporation Counsel emphasized that the building cannot be sold until tenants' property is removed, addressing concerns from residents who said they were initially told the building would remain accessible. Detroit City Council members, responding to pressure from displaced tenants and advocates, are exploring acquiring the property to convert it into affordable cooperative housing. The situation highlights a broader crisis in Detroit where approximately 85% of rental properties fail to meet city code requirements, prompting calls for better coordination between health and code enforcement departments.

Obsidian Advocacy Group, a prominent Black-founded governmental consulting and lobbying firm based in Lansing, Michigan, has appointed Jasmine Harris as Senior Director of Communications and Associate Lobbyist as of February 25, 2026. Harris brings extensive high-level political experience, including serving as Spokesperson and Director of African American Media for U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and working on the Kamala Harris presidential campaign where she orchestrated significant media moments. The Michigan native and Central Michigan University graduate will lead strategic communications initiatives, crisis response, and stakeholder engagement to expand the firm's public relations capabilities. This appointment represents a strategic expansion for OAG, combining traditional lobbying with modern communications strategies to better serve clients in Michigan's competitive political landscape. # Key Takeaways

Bridge Michigan conducted a nonscientific survey receiving over 2,600 responses from 81 of Michigan's 83 counties to identify top voter concerns ahead of the 2026 election, coinciding with Governor Gretchen Whitmer's final State of the State address. Respondents indicated their primary concerns include healthcare access, education performance, cost of living, and democratic processes, with regional variations such as data center concerns in mid-Michigan and housing issues in the Upper Peninsula. Michigan students are struggling academically, ranking in the bottom half nationally for reading and math despite increased funding and staffing, making education a priority issue for all gubernatorial candidates. The survey results will be refined through July with a second round of voting, as Bridge Michigan holds politicians accountable on these issues leading up to the November general election.

Bridge Michigan has launched the second phase of its "Bridge Listens" campaign, an interactive survey project designed to identify the most pressing issues for Michigan's 2026 election. Nearly 2,800 readers from across Michigan's counties have already participated since January, helping narrow down approximately 30 issues to focus on before the August primary. The initiative aims to guide the publication's election coverage while holding candidates accountable for addressing critical problems, such as Michigan's declining rankings in education (44th nationally) and income (40th, down from 18th over 25 years). Bridge Michigan plans to explore these voter-selected issues through various formats and will reveal final results at a July event, followed by an October in-person gathering before the election.

Word In Black, a media organization, has established a new Insights & Research Division dedicated to examining health and social issues from the perspective of Black Americans. Led by Dr. Christa Mahlobo, the department aims to collect data that centers Black voices and experiences to reveal nuances often overlooked in traditional research. The division completed its inaugural study investigating Black Americans' attitudes toward organ donation, surveying over 1,500 people and uncovering deep-rooted mistrust in healthcare systems despite theoretical support for donation. The research unit is now shifting focus to breast cancer disparities, examining why Black women die from the disease at significantly higher rates than white women despite similar diagnosis rates.

Word In Black, a national newsroom and research organization serving the Black community, is conducting an anonymous online survey to understand community perspectives on breast cancer. The five-minute voluntary survey is limited to Black women aged 18 and older across all U.S. states, territories, and D.C. Participants answer questions about their breast cancer awareness, risk perceptions, healthcare provider interactions regarding mammograms and genetic testing, and confidence in managing breast health. The survey collects basic demographic information and maintains confidentiality through secure servers, with any incentive contact details stored separately from responses. # Key Takeaways

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is hosting a second public meeting on Tuesday evening to discuss the ongoing feasibility study for a proposed park cap over Interstate 75. The initiative aims to reconnect Detroit's downtown and Midtown neighborhoods by covering portions of the highway with park space. Transportation firm AECOM is conducting the study, which involves evaluating transportation, technical, and environmental design factors through a community engagement process that started in October 2025 and continues until June 2026. Attendees will receive updates on engineering design progress and can contribute stories and historical memorabilia to help shape the project's development. # Key Takeaways

Claressa Shields successfully defended her undisputed heavyweight championship against Franchón Crews-Dezurn via unanimous decision (100-90 on all scorecards) at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit before over 17,000 fans. The bout marked the second professional meeting between the two fighters, who first faced each other in their respective professional debuts in 2016 beneath the Ward-Kovalev undercard, a fight Shields won after claiming two Olympic gold medals. Despite a heated weigh-in confrontation that required police intervention, both fighters maintained mutual respect throughout the competition, emphasizing their shared commitment to advancing women's boxing. Shields dominated the ten-round contest with superior technique and ring intelligence, while Crews-Dezurn pressed forward relentlessly, demonstrating the toughness that previously made her a Super Middleweight undisputed champion. Beyond the victory itself, Shields continues leveraging her platform to transform women's boxing from an afterthought into a commercially viable sport that fills arenas and commands substantial purses.

The top-ranked Michigan Wolverines fell to third-ranked Duke Blue Devils 68-63 in a highly anticipated non-conference showdown in Washington, D.C., losing their number one ranking and extending their winless streak against Duke dating back to 2008. The intensely competitive first half saw 13 lead changes and five ties, with foul trouble plaguing key players on both sides and Duke taking a narrow halftime advantage. Michigan struggled significantly from three-point range, making only six of 25 attempts, while Duke's freshman star Cam Boozer delivered a crucial performance with 18 points and 10 rebounds, scoring seven of his team's final nine points to seal the victory. Despite Yaxel Lendeborg's game-high 21 points and Michigan cutting the deficit to one point late in the game, their poor perimeter shooting and losses in rebounding and assists proved decisive against the elite opponent.

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield has established a new Mayor's Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety through executive order, centralizing the city's violence prevention efforts after achieving historic crime reductions in 2025. The office will coordinate existing community violence intervention programs that have proven successful, while expanding focus to address domestic and intimate partner violence, which accounted for 17 percent of the city's homicides last year. Supported by a $200,000 Hudson-Webber Foundation grant and led by veteran community advocate Teferi Brent, the initiative adopts a public health approach emphasizing prevention, trust-building, and cross-sector collaboration rather than enforcement alone. The office consolidates six service areas including violence intervention, conflict resolution, survivor advocacy, reentry support, and domestic violence prevention, treating public safety as a neighborhood condition shaped by multiple factors beyond traditional policing.

The EMIR Healing Center, a Philadelphia nonprofit founded 26 years ago by Chantay Love after her brother's murder, is opening two new facilities designed to provide compassionate support for families devastated by homicide. The organization was created in response to authorities' dismissive treatment of her brother's death and systemic inequities that devalue Black and brown victims, operating on the principle of serving all homicide survivors without judgment. EMIR has evolved from a volunteer-run operation to employ 12 trauma coordinators and 18 counselors, offering grief counseling, social support, and advocacy including intervention with employers and schools. The new healing centers, intentionally designed with vibrant colors and comfortable spaces to promote joy and dignity, represent both physical expansion and a commitment to demonstrating that low-income Black families affected by violence deserve quality care and environments.

Detroit Public Schools Community District achieved its highest four-year graduation rate since current tracking began in 2007-08, reaching 83% in 2025 and nearly matching the statewide average of 84%. The improvement of nearly 5 percentage points from the previous year was attributed to strategies funded partly by $1.27 billion in federal COVID relief dollars, including health hubs, wraparound services, expanded counseling, and chronic absenteeism reduction efforts that brought absence rates below pre-pandemic levels. Despite the graduation gains, significant college readiness gaps persist, with 85% of Detroit students scoring below math benchmarks and 63.9% below reading and writing benchmarks on the SAT. The district plans to address these challenges through a "High School Redesign" initiative launching next school year, which will introduce diploma pathways and expand career opportunities at neighborhood schools.

This article by Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware highlights five spiritually significant books written by African American authors that explore the Christian season of Lent through distinctly Black theological perspectives. For Black Christians whose faith emerged from experiences of enslavement and resistance, the Lenten period of fasting and reflection carries unique cultural and spiritual dimensions beyond traditional observance. The featured works address themes including repentance without despair, the wisdom found in Black spirituality, the intersection of slavery's legacy with Christian devotion, the sacredness of Black physical existence, and the spiritual power of traditional African American hymns. These texts connect historical Christian practices with contemporary Black experiences and offer pathways for encountering faith during challenging times.

The Milford Independent Cinema, a non-profit theater in western Oakland County operated by the Huron Valley Film Organization, recently faced potential closure after its board announced it needed to raise $70,000 by the end of January to remain viable. Community members rallied to support the beloved movie house, which is run by local volunteers through the film organization. At the deadline on January 31st, board member Julie Hill-Lin announced they had successfully secured the necessary funding to keep the theater operating. The timing coincided with a feature story being prepared by One Detroit that documented the cinema's origins and operations. # Key Takeaways

Detroit PBS organized a community screening event in Ann Arbor as part of its year-long caregiving initiative, featuring the documentary "Wisdom Gone Wild." The film chronicles director Rea Tajiri's experience caring for her Japanese American mother Rose after a dementia diagnosis. Following the screening, host Bill Kubota from One Detroit led a panel discussion that brought together the filmmaker and three local specialists in caregiving and dementia services. The collaborative event involved multiple community partners including the Michigan Theater, local journalists, and a community foundation, and the documentary remains available for additional group viewings. # Key Takeaways

Detroit has launched its first standalone early middle college high school, Detroit Early Middle College (DEMC), offering students a combined pathway through high school and college coursework. The program spans ninth grade through a 13th year, allowing students to graduate with up to 60 transferable college credits, an associate degree, and industry certifications alongside their high school diploma. This initiative addresses significant educational disparities in Detroit, where families face rising college costs, limited career pipelines, and restricted access to accelerated learning opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. School leaders emphasize that DEMC aims to provide students with structured career preparation and college readiness as a standard offering rather than a privilege, potentially positioning Detroit students to participate in and lead the city's economic growth.

Nicole Boynton became the first person freed under Georgia's Survivor Justice Act after serving 23 years of a life sentence for fatally stabbing her abusive boyfriend in 1999 during a domestic violence incident. The law creates new legal mechanisms allowing courts to consider evidence of past abuse during trials, sentencing, and post-conviction proceedings, addressing a systemic pattern where survivors—particularly Black women—face harsh punishments when they defend themselves against abusers. Research shows that Black women who experience domestic violence are disproportionately sentenced to maximum penalties, with courts often ignoring the context of prolonged abuse and treating survival actions as criminal aggression. Other states including Michigan, New York, Oklahoma, and New Jersey are pursuing similar legislative reforms to address how the criminal justice system criminalizes survival and disproportionately punishes Black women survivors of violence. # Key Takeaways

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield has appointed Dr. Chanel Hampton as the city's first Senior Director of Youth and Education and created a new Office of Youth Affairs led by JerJuan Howard, responding to stark poverty data showing approximately 51% of Detroit children living below the poverty line in 2024. Hampton will coordinate youth policy and serve as liaison between the mayor's office and various educational institutions, while Howard's office will organize existing youth councils and embed young voices in city policymaking. Howard, a Detroit native who founded the Umoja Debate League, brings grassroots experience and personal investment in the community, recently purchasing a vacant building to convert into a neighborhood bookstore and café. The administration aims to move beyond revitalization talking points by creating accountable structures that address the real daily challenges facing Detroit's youth, from mental health to academics to basic stability.

A recent poll commissioned by Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson's campaign shows her leading the Michigan governor's race with 39% support, followed by Republican John James at 36% and Independent Mike Duggan at 20%. The survey of 800 likely voters, conducted by Impact Research in mid-February, contradicts previous independent polls that showed a tighter race with different configurations of the top three candidates. Duggan's campaign has questioned the credibility of Benson's internal polling, claiming independent surveys show her support closer to 30%. The race to replace term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer has created tensions within Democratic circles, particularly regarding Duggan's independent candidacy and his willingness to critique fellow Democrats.

Detroit At-Large Council Member Mary Waters emphasizes the importance of local government in addressing community needs that state and federal officials often overlook, citing her exchange with HUD Secretary Scott Turner about transitional housing quality. Waters has outlined several priorities for her current term, including strengthening the newly formed tenants rights commission, using the council's budget authority more assertively, and opposing additional funding for the Detroit Land Bank Authority. She successfully lobbied against a Land Value Tax proposal in the state legislature and plans to resist zoning changes that would allow higher-density housing in single-family neighborhoods. Waters, who previously served in the Michigan Legislature as the first Black woman Democratic floor leader, is being mentioned as a potential 2026 congressional candidate though she hasn't confirmed her intentions.

Midtown Detroit, Inc. has revealed final plans for a $2.4 million streetscape renovation of Peterboro Street that will honor the area's historic Chinatown heritage while modernizing the infrastructure. The project includes improved lighting, repaved sidewalks, bike facilities, plantings, and bronze sidewalk displays marking culturally significant locations, with design elements celebrating the neighborhood's Chinese American history authentically. The initiative gained momentum after the 2023 demolition of the Chinese Merchants Association building sparked community action, leading State Representative Stephanie Chang to secure $1 million in state funding while organizers launch a fundraiser for the remaining $1.4 million. The current street suffers from poor accessibility and inadequate lighting, and the redesign aims to create flexible public spaces for community gatherings and cultural events with anticipated completion in 2027.

The Dexter-Linwood neighborhood in Detroit recently celebrated the opening of Kandies Mini Mart, a new grocery section within an existing sandwich shop, marking the first location to launch under the relaunched Green Grocer Program after a seven-year pause. Owner Jacquisha Blackwell received a $25,000 grant from the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation to expand her business and provide walkable access to fresh produce, dairy, and essential items in a neighborhood previously classified as a food desert. The Green Grocer Program, which originally ran from 2010 to 2017 and generated over $50 million in investments across 40 businesses, was revived in 2024 through efforts by City Council President Pro Tempore Coleman A. Young II after securing additional funding. The initiative prioritizes small-format grocery concepts that bring healthy food options to underserved areas while the store also serves as an employment resource for Detroit youth through partnerships with local job training organizations.

Estate planning attorney Jehan Crump-Gibson addresses a widespread misunderstanding about Wills and probate court that has been perpetuated through social media and public forums. Contrary to popular belief promoted by non-experts, having a Last Will and Testament does not prevent assets from going through probate court; instead, a Will merely serves as instructions for the court to follow when distributing assets held solely in the deceased person's name. The article explains that Wills cannot override beneficiary designations and that assets without joint owners or designated beneficiaries must still pass through the time-consuming and public probate process. Crump-Gibson advocates for Revocable Trusts as a superior alternative that allows assets to transfer directly to beneficiaries without court involvement, though she emphasizes the importance of consulting an experienced estate planning attorney to determine the best approach for individual circumstances.

Fernando Ramírez, a Mexican immigrant who came to the United States in the 1980s, spent approximately 103 days detained at Michigan's North Lake ICE Processing Center after being arrested despite having a valid work permit and no criminal record. During his detention at the facility, which is operated by private company GEO Group and has grown to hold over 1,400 detainees, Ramírez witnessed and experienced inadequate medical care, unsanitary conditions, poor food quality, and insufficient cold-weather protection. His experience reflects broader concerns about the facility raised by families and officials, including the death of another diabetic detainee and reports of suicide attempts. While detained, Ramírez helped other detainees with translation and support, and his daughters organized a support network called Raíces Migrantes to assist detained immigrants and their families. He was eventually released through a habeas corpus petition on January 10, 2026.

The East Bay Permanent Real Estate Cooperative (EB PREC) is working to revive West Oakland's historic 7th Street Corridor by carefully restoring Esther's Orbit Room, a former jazz and blues club, as a cultural anchor for the neighborhood. The cooperative has raised $18.2 million through a combination of grants, low-interest loans, and investments from nearly 400 community members who accept modest returns in exchange for preserving neighborhood character and preventing displacement. This effort is part of a nationwide trend of historically Black commercial corridors attempting revivals through culturally authentic development, though these projects face challenges including skeptical lenders, decades of property neglect, and community members wary of past failures. EB PREC's approach emphasizes community control and cultural authenticity over investor profits, with leaders believing that careful attention to historical details and genuine representation of West Oakland's Black heritage will attract both local residents and broader tourism. Similar revival efforts are underway in Chicago's Austin neighborhood, Birmingham's Woodlawn district, Columbus's Long Street Corridor, and Pittsburgh's Hill District, all relying on local leadership and cultural preservation to drive economic development.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, running for governor, has proposed developing a statewide high-speed rail system to connect major cities and boost economic growth. The plan, which remains in development, aims to reduce travel times between cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing while attracting young talent who prefer walkable communities with transit options. Michigan currently has only three Amtrak passenger lines running to Chicago, with infrequent service on freight-owned tracks. The proposal faces significant financial and political challenges, with implementation costs potentially reaching billions of dollars depending on whether the state pursues true high-speed rail or upgraded conventional service, though Benson suggests public-private partnerships could fund the project without tax increases.

Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison has decided not to terminate two officers who contacted federal Border Patrol agents, contrary to department policy, after the city's police oversight board suspended them without pay instead. The controversy centers on two separate incidents where officers coordinated with immigration authorities—one involving a traffic stop where translation services were requested, and another during a felony warrant investigation. One suspended officer, a 27-year veteran sergeant, has filed a lawsuit claiming the department's restrictions on communicating with federal immigration officials violate federal law that prohibits such limitations. Federal agencies publicly supported the officers, calling them "American heroes," while Detroit's mayor has endorsed the chief's decision to accept the board's suspension rather than pursue termination.

Michigan's four-year high school graduation rate reached a historic high of 84% in 2025, up from approximately 83% the previous year, while the dropout rate decreased to 7.13%. The improvement was seen across various student populations, including economically disadvantaged students, those with disabilities, and students experiencing homelessness, with Detroit Public Schools achieving its highest graduation rate since the state adopted its current tracking formula. Districts attribute their success to expanded credit recovery programs, increased counseling services, mental health interventions, and career-focused learning opportunities that make education more relevant to students' interests. However, despite rising graduation rates, college readiness remains a significant concern, with SAT scores showing most students across the state falling below benchmarks in math and reading, prompting calls for more rigorous graduation standards that better prepare students for post-secondary success. # Key Takeaways

The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against President Trump's sweeping global tariffs that were imposed using emergency powers legislation, determining that the Constitution grants tariff authority exclusively to Congress rather than the executive branch. Chief Justice Roberts authored the majority opinion while three conservative justices dissented, arguing the tariffs were legally permissible. The decision represents Trump's first major Supreme Court defeat on a cornerstone economic policy, though the administration indicated it may pursue tariffs through alternative legal mechanisms with different constraints. The contested tariffs, which Trump justified as responses to trade deficits and drug trafficking emergencies, were projected to cost approximately $3 trillion over ten years and had already generated over $133 billion in collected import taxes. # Key Takeaways

The U.S. Justice Department has launched Title IX investigations into three Michigan school districts—Detroit, Lansing, and Godfrey-Lee—examining whether they include gender identity content in classrooms and allow transgender students to use bathrooms matching their gender identity. Michigan's State Superintendent Glenn Maleyko strongly disputes the investigations, stating they are based on false claims about state requirements, emphasizing that local districts control their own curriculum and parents retain opt-out rights for sex education. The DOJ is demanding extensive documentation and threatening to terminate federal funding if districts don't comply, which could significantly impact these districts that rely heavily on federal grants. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and civil rights attorneys have condemned the investigations as politically motivated harassment designed to discriminate against transgender students, while some Republican officials have expressed support for the federal probes.

Michigan regulators have approved a $242.4 million electric rate increase for DTE Energy, which amounts to roughly half of what the utility originally requested and will raise residential bills by approximately 4.1 percent starting in early March. The approved increase will add about $4.93 monthly to customer bills and follows another substantial rate hike granted just two months earlier in January 2025. DTE claims the additional revenue is necessary to fund infrastructure projects including converting a coal plant to natural gas, building battery storage systems, and decommissioning old power facilities. Consumer advocates have criticized the commission for approving a return on equity rate that exceeds the national industry average, arguing it prioritizes shareholder profits over customer affordability and encourages the utility to focus on capital-intensive projects rather than reliability improvements like tree trimming. # Key Takeaways

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched investigations into three Michigan school districts—Detroit Public Schools Community District, Lansing School District, and Godfrey-Lee Public Schools—to examine whether they are providing instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity without offering parents the ability to opt out their children. The investigations stem from Michigan's November 2025 revision of health education standards that incorporate LGBTQ+ topics into required health classes, which the DOJ suggests may violate Title IX and a recent Supreme Court ruling protecting parental religious rights. The DOJ is demanding extensive documentation of materials related to gender and sexuality topics across all grade levels and has threatened to withhold federal funding if districts fail to comply. These districts receive higher percentages of federal funding than wealthier districts, making the threat of losing such support particularly significant for their operations.

Detroit will host the combined MDEX x XPONENTIAL 2026 event in May, bringing together the Michigan Defense Expo and the world's largest autonomy and uncrewed systems conference at Huntington Place. The unprecedented convergence is expected to attract over 11,000 attendees, including Department of Defense officials, defense contractors, robotics innovators, and manufacturers working across ground, air, and maritime technologies. Michigan's often-overlooked defense manufacturing ecosystem contributes approximately $30 billion annually to the state economy and supports more than 166,000 jobs, making it the nation's largest producer of defense ground vehicles. The event will provide direct access to federal procurement opportunities, particularly benefiting small and minority-owned businesses seeking defense contracts. This gathering positions Detroit as a national hub where automotive heritage, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and defense modernization intersect.

One year after a massive 54-inch water main break devastated a Southwest Detroit neighborhood, hundreds of residents continue struggling with financial losses, health issues, and incomplete recovery. The February 2024 infrastructure failure flooded approximately 400 homes with chest-high water, destroying appliances, vehicles, and irreplaceable family belongings while displacing roughly 300 residents to hotels. Despite nearly $12 million in repair and recovery efforts from city authorities, many low-income residents—living in an area where nearly one-third are below the poverty line—remain unable to replace damaged property or address ongoing mental health trauma. Community organizers report that 57% of surveyed residents experienced health problems following the break, while immigration fears prevented some undocumented residents from evacuating or seeking assistance. The incident has prompted the Great Lakes Water Authority to implement new risk assessment procedures and launch a pilot program using electromagnetic technology to inspect aging steel pipes across the region.

The RO Cares Foundation is organizing the Cool Kids Gala, a formal prom-style event specifically designed for children with special needs and their families at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial on April 4, 2026. The gala aims to create an elevated, luxurious experience rather than simply accommodating differences, featuring red carpet arrivals, professional photography, music, and grooming services. Founder Ro Johnson emphasizes that the event centers on celebrating these children and placing them at the heart of the experience, allowing them to feel confident and seen without barriers. The gala also provides emotional relief for families who typically face challenges navigating traditional social events, offering a supportive environment where inclusion is fundamental and parents can simply enjoy watching their children shine.

After a fire damaged the Grixdale Farms facility housing Hitha Healing House on December 12, 2025, the Detroit-based maternal wellness nonprofit has partnered with Brilliant Detroit to continue operations at their Central Hub location. The organization, established by Kayana Sessoms in 2022, provides holistic maternal health support to Black mothers who face disproportionately high mortality rates during pregnancy and postpartum periods. Through this collaboration, Hitha will maintain its programming including the Nurturing Roots initiative, which offers up to ten paid wellness sessions covering services from nutrition counseling to emotional support for new mothers. The partnership builds on a decade-long relationship between Sessoms and Brilliant Detroit, enabling a rapid response to keep critical maternal health services accessible to the community.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer will deliver her final State of the State address on February 25, with expectations for a modest agenda given her remaining time in office and divided government. A Bridge Michigan analysis shows she has fulfilled or partially fulfilled 42 of 62 promises from her previous seven addresses, including major accomplishments like securing long-term road funding through a bipartisan deal and banning classroom smartphone use. Her approach has evolved from making direct promises to Michiganders toward issuing calls for legislative action, reflecting changing political dynamics as she worked with Republican, Democratic, and now divided legislatures. Notable failures from last year include lawmakers rejecting a proposed vape tax and missing both the July and October budget deadlines for the first time in 16 years. Political observers expect Whitmer to propose a shorter list of achievable items as she navigates her final year with a Republican-controlled House and Democratic Senate during an election year. # Key Takeaways

Detroit-area actor Brian Taylor discusses his portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in "The Mountaintop," a two-person theatrical production running at Detroit Public Theatre until March 8. The award-winning play presents a fictional account of King's final evening before his 1968 assassination. In his interview with host Stephen Henderson, Taylor describes his preparation process, including work with an acting coach and his research into King's life and character. He shares his perspective on King's legacy and his aspirations for what audiences will gain from experiencing the performance. # Key Takeaways

Detroit City Council members harshly criticized city officials on Tuesday over the handling of the Leland House apartment building evacuation, where predominantly low-income senior residents were forced out in December due to safety concerns and remain unable to retrieve their belongings. The historic downtown building has been inaccessible because power must be restored before anyone can safely enter, while city officials defended their actions by citing years of attempting to force the building's owners into compliance with safety codes. Council members, particularly District 5's Renata Miller, argued the city failed to act proactively before the emergency situation developed and expressed frustration with inadequate oversight of landlords citywide. Among those affected is former tenant Katherine Guyton, who lost both her job at the Leland and her address needed for employment applications, while only 20 of 31 identified tenants have authorized the city to pack and store their possessions.

Detroit City Council members are demanding answers about why Leland House tenants have been unable to retrieve their belongings since the building's December evacuation following a transformer failure that cut power. The situation has grown more complicated because the property owner filed for bankruptcy, and the building cannot be safely accessed until power is restored. A federal judge has set a February 24 deadline for the city, building owners, and tenant representatives to develop a retrieval plan, while council members unanimously voted to pursue a nuisance abatement lawsuit against the property. The displaced tenants have suffered significant hardships, including job losses and missed housing opportunities due to lack of access to important documents and personal items. Council members criticized the city's code enforcement for failing to address known maintenance problems before the crisis occurred. # Key Takeaways

Detroit police leadership announced plans to terminate officers who violated the city's "Welcoming City" policies by contacting Border Patrol during traffic stops, sparking backlash from Republican lawmakers and conservative organizations. The policy violations occurred in two separate incidents, including one witnessed by a reporter, where officers coordinated with federal immigration agents despite city ordinances prohibiting such collaboration without judge-signed detainer warrants. Police Chief Todd Bettison and Mayor Mary Sheffield defended the disciplinary actions, emphasizing Detroit's commitment to protecting undocumented residents and ensuring they feel safe regardless of immigration status. Conservative critics accused city leaders of punishing officers for enforcing federal law, while city officials insisted Detroit police should not engage in immigration enforcement. The department is conducting investigations expected to conclude within 21 days and has reinforced training to clarify policies among officers.

Detroit poet and cultural architect jessica Care moore composed and delivered a ceremonial poem honoring Mary Sheffield at her inauguration as Detroit's first woman mayor on January 8, 2026. The poem, titled "We Rise Higher," positions Sheffield's historic achievement within the legacy of Detroit's Black women leaders and the city's broader history of resilience and community organizing. Moore's work emphasizes that Sheffield's election represents not just a political milestone but a manifestation of generational perseverance, tracing back to Detroit's roots and the work of women who carried leadership responsibilities without formal recognition. The poem celebrates Sheffield's community-centered approach to governance, particularly her focus on pregnant mothers, babies, and fighting poverty as investments in the city's future. # Key Takeaways

Fifteen-year-old Blaire Johnson from Bloomfield Hills will participate in a major educational tour with renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma and Interlochen Arts Academy in March 2026, celebrating America's 250th anniversary. The tour involves collaboration among the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, and Detroit Symphony Orchestra, with performances featuring a newly commissioned cello concerto by Wynton Marsalis and other contemporary works. Students from Interlochen will perform alongside professional orchestra members, many of whom are alumni of the institution, under conductor Cristian Măcelaru. The four-city tour holds special significance as it marks the centennial anniversary of the partnership between Interlochen and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which dates back to 1926. # Key Takeaways

A federal judge has ordered DTE Energy and its Zug Island subsidiary, EES Coke Battery, to pay $100 million in penalties for violating the Clean Air Act through excessive sulfur dioxide emissions. The ruling also requires the company to obtain proper permits, establish a community air quality committee funded with $20 million, and fund local environmental improvement projects. Judge Gershwin Drain determined that DTE exercised substantial control over the facility's operations despite the company's claims of non-responsibility, making them legally liable for the violations. The decision follows an EPA lawsuit and September bench trial that revealed the facility emitted over 14,000 tons of excess sulfur dioxide between 2019 and 2023, impacting residents in Southwest Detroit and surrounding communities. DTE has announced plans to appeal the ruling to the 6th Circuit Court.

President Trump's nominee for Assistant Secretary of State for International Organizations, Jeremy Carl, is encountering significant opposition from senators on both sides of the political aisle. Republican Senator John Curtis from Utah has publicly stated he cannot support Carl due to concerns about anti-Israel positions and insensitive comments regarding Jewish people. Carl has generated controversy for his previous statements and published work arguing that white Americans face systematic discrimination, including criticism of Juneteenth and the Civil Rights Act, as well as references to white nationalist conspiracy theories. Multiple civil rights organizations and the Congressional Black Caucus have actively campaigned against his confirmation, arguing his views make him unsuitable for representing America in international diplomatic settings.

A Black special education teacher, Linda Davis, was killed in Savannah, Georgia when her vehicle was struck by another driver fleeing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation. The driver, Oscar Vasquez Lopez, a Guatemalan national with a removal order but no criminal record, initially stopped for ICE officers but then fled, running a red light before causing the fatal collision. Local police emphasized they were not involved in or aware of the federal operation, which has raised questions about pursuit policies since the county maintains a no-chase rule to protect residents. Davis, who was heading to work on a staff preparation day, is being mourned as an exceptional educator who dedicated herself to supporting special education students.

The Detroit Federation of Teachers is preparing to negotiate a new contract as their current agreement expires June 30, with immigration support protections as a major priority following increased federal enforcement that has led to at least five student detentions and declining enrollment in immigrant communities. The union is seeking mandatory staff training on immigration issues, contract language reinforcing the district's sanctuary status, and protections for immigrant employees, despite the district having provided only limited training to some staff members. Additional bargaining priorities include competitive salary increases to attract and retain teachers, paid maternity leave to replace the current unpaid 16-week policy, and more resources for special education programs where unrealistic evaluation timelines are causing staff burnout. Superintendent Nikolai Vitti acknowledges enrollment drops and increased absenteeism in Southwest Detroit schools due to ICE fears and says the district is working with community leaders to support affected families, though union leadership argues much more needs to be done.

Detroit Public Schools Community District is grappling with severe special education teacher shortages, particularly for autism spectrum disorder programs, as part of a broader statewide crisis affecting Michigan schools. Superintendent Nikolai Vitti is advocating for the Michigan Department of Education to streamline certification requirements and provide incentives to attract more educators to special education roles. The shortage stems from multiple barriers including lengthy training requirements, costly credentialing processes that often require duplicate student teaching experiences, and lack of financial incentives despite additional qualifications. While some initiatives like tuition reimbursement grants and alternative certification pathways exist, advocacy groups and families emphasize the critical need for adequately trained teachers, as improperly prepared educators can result in harmful disciplinary practices and inadequate services for vulnerable students.

The Detroit Police Department released a memo detailing its limited interactions with federal immigration enforcement agencies, revealing that ICE requested assistance twice in early 2025 and that 63 federal detainers were issued for already-arrested individuals. Two Detroit police officers have been suspended and face potential termination for violating department policy that prohibits enforcing federal immigration laws, with Chief Todd Bettison emphasizing that severe penalties will apply to policy violators. City Council members are exploring sanctuary city status and supporting state legislation to restrict immigration enforcement activities, though legal memos indicate constitutional limitations on banning ICE operations entirely. The department has clarified that no city funds support ICE activities, no data-sharing agreements exist with immigration agencies, and officers are prohibited from inquiring about immigration status or treating immigrants differently.

Reverend Jesse Jackson, the renowned civil rights leader and political activist, died Tuesday at age 84 at his Chicago home while surrounded by family, after battling progressive supranuclear palsy and Parkinson's disease. Throughout his career spanning decades, Jackson championed causes affecting poor and marginalized communities, including voting rights, employment opportunities, education, and healthcare, while also pressuring corporations through his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition to create more equitable workplaces. Jackson maintained especially strong ties to Michigan and Detroit, winning the state's 1988 Democratic presidential primary, launching initiatives like the Rainbow PUSH Automotive Project in Detroit, and regularly appearing at rallies, protests, and community events throughout the state. Despite severe health challenges in recent years, he remained active in advocacy work until his final months, appearing at the 2024 Democratic National Convention and participating virtually in meetings about telecommunications equity. Political and community leaders across Michigan mourned his passing, remembering him as a mentor, humanitarian, and transformative figure whose 1988 presidential campaign helped pave the way for Black political candidates nationwide.

George Clinton, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee who founded Parliament-Funkadelic, and Grammy-winning producer Maurice "Pirahnahead" Herd participated in a discussion at the Detroit Opera House about their experiences at United Sound Systems Recording Studios. The historic Detroit facility, which hosted numerous legendary artists over the years, served as Clinton's creative base known as the P-Funk Lab for nearly two decades. During their conversation with American Black Journal contributor Cecelia Sharpe, Clinton discussed his connection to Detroit and memorable studio moments, while Herd reflected on his development as a young Detroit musician under Clinton's influence. Their dialogue explored how the innovative funk music created at United Sound helped define Detroit's musical identity and influenced American music more broadly.

The U.S. House of Representatives has officially renamed its press gallery after Frederick Douglass, the renowned abolitionist and writer who covered congressional proceedings from that same chamber during the Civil War era. The bipartisan initiative was spearheaded by Republican Representative Byron Donalds and Democrat Representative Steve Horsford, with House Speaker Mike Johnson participating in the dedication ceremony. A commemorative plaque now marks the gallery entrance, honoring Douglass's legacy as an escaped slave who became a self-educated civil rights advocate and influential voice in shaping abolition policy through his journalism and correspondence with President Lincoln. The dedication took place during Black History Month, coinciding with the centennial anniversary of the formal national observance of Black history that began in 1926. # Key Takeaways

Jesse Jackson, who passed away at age 84, lived through and actively shaped one of the most transformative periods in American history regarding racial justice. His life spanned from the Jim Crow era through the election of the first Black president, with Jackson serving as both a witness and agent of change throughout this journey. Two powerful photographs capture this arc: one showing him as a young man standing with Martin Luther King Jr. the day before King's assassination in 1968, and another depicting him weeping at Barack Obama's 2008 election victory celebration. Jackson dedicated his entire adult life to advancing equality and justice, making his personal journey a reflection of America's own difficult path toward racial progress.

Reverend Jesse Jackson, who passed away Tuesday morning, profoundly influenced Michigan politics and civil rights activism throughout his career. Beginning in 1970, he launched economic boycotts in Detroit demanding corporations hire Black workers, later establishing a field office in 1998 to increase minority representation in the auto industry. Jackson made history in Michigan during his 1988 presidential campaign by becoming the first Black candidate to win a major party's state nomination, capturing 55% of the Democratic caucus vote and briefly leading the race. Political leaders across Michigan, including Governor Whitmer and former Mayor Duggan, remembered his decades-long commitment to Detroit through regular visits, advocacy work, and personal counsel. His legacy includes championing working people's rights, strengthening Black political power, and maintaining an unwavering dedication to equality and justice.

Reverend Jesse Jackson, who died at age 84 in February 2026, maintained a uniquely significant relationship with Detroit that went beyond his national civil rights profile. Through his Operation PUSH and later the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Jackson fought persistently for Black workers' economic justice in the automotive industry, pressuring major automakers to hire Black employees, establish minority dealership programs, and create equitable supplier contracts. His connection to Detroit was complex—sometimes harmonious, sometimes contentious—particularly in his interactions with local leaders like Mayor Coleman A. Young, but he remained a consistent advocate during critical moments including auto industry crises and the city's 2013 bankruptcy. Jackson understood Detroit as both a symbol and battleground for Black liberation, treating the city's predominantly Black workforce as central to the broader struggle for economic equality rather than simply offering symbolic gestures of support.

Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans delivered his 11th State of the County address, emphasizing how the county has transformed from financial crisis to stability through eleven consecutive balanced budgets and improved credit ratings. His "One Wayne County" vision proposes treating the county's 43 fragmented municipalities as a unified community, with major initiatives including expanded countywide transit that voters will decide on, workforce development programs in aviation to meet future industry demands, and student loan assistance for residents carrying $7 billion in debt. The county has achieved significant public safety improvements, reducing homicides by 49 percent since 2020, while launching practical support programs like Rx Kids that has already distributed over $1.5 million to more than 900 families with newborns. Evans is pivoting from crisis management to ambitious expansion, betting that a decade of fiscal discipline has earned him the credibility to unite a historically divided region around shared opportunities and infrastructure investments.

Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., the renowned civil rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, passed away peacefully on Monday night, February 16, at the age of 83. Throughout his six-decade career, Jackson worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement and later led transformative voter registration campaigns during his 1984 and 1988 presidential runs that registered millions of new voters. His advocacy work extended internationally, addressing racial discrimination, economic inequality, healthcare, education, and human rights issues on a global scale. Jackson leaves behind a profound legacy as both a humanitarian leader and devoted family man whose vision for justice and equality will continue through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. # Key Takeaways

Wayne State University students participated in a December medical mission to Mexico's Yucatán region through Humanity First International, a nonprofit organization that provides healthcare services to underserved communities. The volunteers, working alongside licensed physicians, delivered free clinical care, screenings, and medications to 231 patients across two rural communities, Umán and Yobaín, where residents face limited healthcare access. The experience gave pre-medical students hands-on clinical exposure they cannot obtain in traditional classroom settings, while demonstrating how students can make meaningful contributions before graduating. The mission organizers selected these rural locations specifically because they lack adequate health services, and the program aims to both serve communities in need and provide relief to the local Mexican healthcare system. # Key Takeaways

Two Detroit-area organizers, hospice social worker Theresa Beckley-Amaya and artist Julianna Sanroman Rojas, launched an initiative in December 2025 to address the often-overlooked emotional trauma experienced by Latino families affected by deportations and immigration enforcement. With assistance from approximately 30 volunteers and various local businesses, they installed 24 artistic altars throughout Southwest Detroit's public spaces to create visible, communal sites for processing what they call "disenfranchised grief." The project draws on cultural traditions like Dia de Los Muertos to transform grief from an isolated, private experience into a collective one that validates and acknowledges the pain immigration policies inflict on communities. The organizers plan to expand the initiative to other Detroit neighborhoods and Michigan cities during a spring installation.

The Culinary Griot is hosting "Roots & Rhythm," a cultural dining experience in Detroit that combines African diasporic cuisine with live entertainment to celebrate Black food traditions and community. The event features fusion dishes inspired by West African, Caribbean, and Southern cuisines, accompanied by live drumming and DJ performances that create an immersive cultural atmosphere. Scheduled for two February and March dates at different Detroit venues, the experience aims to honor ancestral culinary wisdom while fostering community healing and connection. The event positions food as a vehicle for storytelling about Black survival, migration, and cultural preservation rather than simply a meal. It represents a space where Black culture is centered and celebrated authentically by and for the community.

The Michigan Wolverines improved to a program-best 24-1 record after defeating UCLA 86-56 on Valentine's Day, earning them the No. 1 ranking in college basketball for the first time since 2013. After a competitive first half that saw UCLA trailing by only two points, Michigan dominated the second half with a 46-18 run, showcasing their exceptional depth with nine players scoring after intermission. The Wolverines excelled in virtually every statistical category, led by Yaxel Lendeborg's 17 points and Morez Johnson Jr.'s perfect 6-for-6 shooting performance for 15 points. Under second-year Head Coach Dusty May, Michigan's deep roster and versatile play have positioned them as legitimate national championship contenders, though they face a challenging schedule ahead with games against multiple top-ranked opponents.

First Tee of Greater Detroit, a nonprofit organization that uses golf to teach youth essential life skills, has expanded its Board of Directors by adding five prominent national leaders with diverse professional backgrounds. The new appointees include executives from technology companies like Microsoft and AT&T, along with professionals from communications, law, and creative media industries who collectively bring extensive high-level organizational leadership experience. This strategic board expansion aims to strengthen the organization's capacity to deliver character development and leadership programming to young people throughout Southeast Michigan. Organization leadership emphasized that these appointments will support strategic growth initiatives and help expand access to their youth development programs across the region.

Southwest Detroit's Bagley-West Vernor corridor, recognized as the commercial center of Mexicantown, has received official designation as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The designation resulted from a 2025 nomination by Detroit's Historic Designation Advisory Board, supported by a $50,000 federal Underrepresented Communities grant that funded research documenting Latin American contributions to the area over the past century. Local business owners, including families who have operated establishments for decades, view the recognition as both overdue validation and an economic opportunity that could attract more visitors. The designation makes the district eligible for federal preservation support, state grants, and tax credits for building rehabilitation while joining other notable Detroit sites like Eastern Market and Boston-Edison on the national register. # Key Takeaways

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield is conducting a series of five community forums to gather resident input on her policy agenda while introducing her transition team to the public. The first forum on February 2nd focused on economic empowerment and workforce development, where residents discussed topics including looking to Cleveland's success as a model for retaining talent. Sheffield's administration is emphasizing transparency by conducting this transition process publicly rather than behind closed doors, with Chief of Staff David Bowser explaining they want residents' voices integrated into the next four years of governance. The mayor has already announced several anti-poverty programs in her first week, and three additional forums on topics including infrastructure, public safety, neighborhoods, and education are scheduled for February and March. # Key Takeaways

A study examining Detroit's Little Caesars Arena, which opened in 2017 with $863 million in costs including $324 million in public funds, found the venue had minimal impact on the city's hospitality industry. Researchers analyzed lodging data from 2015 to 2022, comparing Detroit's growth patterns with Grand Rapids, Michigan, which had no major sports venue. While both cities experienced similar growth in short-term rentals, the arena's sporting events showed no positive effect on lodging demand. Only major concerts at the venue increased short-term rental occupancy, and only for properties within one mile of the arena, with no impact on hotels. # Key Takeaways

Wall Street investors and institutional buyers are systematically purchasing single-family homes in Black and working-class neighborhoods, creating structural barriers that prevent first-time homebuyers from building wealth through property ownership. These corporate entities use cash offers and algorithmic pricing to outcompete families who rely on traditional financing, transforming neighborhoods from owner-occupied communities into rental properties that extract wealth rather than build it. This investor dominance artificially inflates home prices, weakens civic engagement, and perpetuates racial wealth inequality by denying Black families access to homeownership—historically their most reliable path to intergenerational wealth. The article argues this is not a market anomaly but a deliberate business model that began after the 2008 housing crisis and continues today. To counter this trend, the author calls for strategic responses including policy interventions, collective community investment, and grassroots education about the critical importance of property ownership.

The Michigan Chronicle has announced the honorees for its 19th annual Women of Excellence Awards and Induction Ceremony, scheduled for March 27, 2026, at Huntington Place in Detroit. More than 400 nominations were submitted, and the selected recipients represent diverse fields including business, education, healthcare, nonprofit work, government, and entrepreneurship throughout Southeast Michigan. The program recognizes women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional accomplishments, and community service that significantly influence the region's economic, civic, and cultural development. The celebration will include corporate partners, civic leaders, and past honorees, and supporters can participate through sponsorships, table reservations, or individual ticket purchases. A commemorative publication called The Book of Women will also be released to highlight the 2026 honorees and feature advertisements from previous recipients and community partners.

Shawn Smith made history by serving as head referee for Super Bowl 60 between the Seahawks and Patriots, marking a significant achievement for the Detroit native and Ferris State University graduate. Smith's path to officiating football's biggest game began at Cody High School in Detroit and continued through college athletics at Eastern Michigan University and Ferris State, where he earned an accountancy degree in 1994 while starting to officiate high school games. He progressively advanced through officiating ranks from Pop Warner and flag football to Division II, major collegiate conferences including the Big Ten, and ultimately joined the NFL in 2015. His Super Bowl assignment came during his 11th NFL season and eighth year as a referee, representing decades of dedication that started on Michigan youth football fields.

The Gordie Howe Bridge connecting Detroit and Canada has taken 14 years to reach near-completion, involving complex international agreements, extensive construction including 12 additional highway bridges on the American side, and creative financing where Canada funded construction to be repaid through tolls. President Trump has threatened to delay the bridge's scheduled opening this year over trade disputes, jeopardizing a critical infrastructure project for the nation's busiest northern border crossing. Detroit currently has inadequate crossing capacity with only the privately-owned Ambassador Bridge handling 8,800-10,000 trucks daily, causing significant congestion, while the smaller Buffalo region has five crossings to Canada. The new six-lane bridge with dedicated pedestrian and bike paths would add crucial capacity and modernize trade infrastructure at a time when the aging Ambassador Bridge is losing traffic to more distant crossings, threatening Detroit's economic position as a trade gateway.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, running as a Democrat for governor, has received endorsements from the Black Mayors of Michigan organization and various other Black elected officials throughout the state. The endorsement highlights Benson's commitment to protecting residents and ensuring economic equity, particularly for Black communities. Her campaign centers on creating an affordable Michigan by investing in underserved populations and addressing issues like Black maternal healthcare and prescription drug costs. Benson leads the Democratic field heading into the August primary, where she faces multiple opponents from both parties in the race to succeed term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

The Detroit NAACP launched its 71st annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner campaign on February 12 with a kickoff reception emphasizing urgent action against contemporary injustices. Reverend Dr. Wendell Anthony, the branch president, invoked the organization's 117-year history of multiracial civil rights advocacy while warning attendees that past accomplishments are insufficient given today's resurgence of discrimination and attacks on diversity. The event featured significant financial commitments, including $250,000 from Huntington Bank and $50,000 from Dennis Archer Jr., who assumed a leadership role as community co-chair. Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield and other civic leaders reinforced their support for the organization's mission, with the formal dinner scheduled for April 26 to honor three local leaders for their civic contributions.

The Anderson Economic Group has calculated that delaying the Gordie Howe International Bridge opening would cost approximately $7 million weekly, with the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority losing $5 million and taxpayers bearing $2 million in customs plaza expenses. President Trump has threatened to block the bridge's opening—despite Canada funding all upfront construction costs—unless Canada meets unspecified demands related to trade negotiations, tariffs, and other grievances. The bridge, connecting Detroit to Windsor and under construction since 2018, represents a critical trade link given the integrated nature of US-Canada manufacturing, particularly in the automotive sector. Trump's threat has generated pushback from Michigan Democrats and some Republicans, though certain GOP leaders view it as appropriate negotiating leverage, while business leaders warn of severe economic consequences for both nations.

The Trump administration has eliminated the EPA's 2009 "endangerment finding" that classified greenhouse gases as harmful to public health, removing the legal basis for federal climate regulations on power plants, vehicles, and industry. While officials claim this deregulation will save industry over $1.3 trillion and reduce consumer costs, these projections ignore health impacts from increased pollution and higher fuel expenses from less efficient vehicles. Michigan faces particularly severe economic consequences, with projections showing the state could lose approximately $5.5 billion in GDP by 2035 from these environmental rollbacks. The changes create uncertainty for Michigan's auto industry, which needs regulatory stability for long-term planning, though state utilities must still comply with Michigan's 2023 law requiring 100% clean energy by 2040. Legal challenges are expected, with critics arguing the EPA has abandoned its public health protection mission.

The Detroit Public Schools Community District is implementing major security enhancements following two violent incidents involving students with weapons at separate schools. The school board approved $4.3 million in funding to hire 38 additional security guards for the remainder of the academic year, bringing the total number of guard vacancies the district is working to fill to 41. A pilot program introducing new security screening technology will be tested at 10 schools, and the district has already begun requiring all school visitors to present photo identification, be photographed, and wear badges displaying their name and image. These measures respond to an October stabbing at Gompers Elementary-Middle School and a January boxcutter incident at Denby High School that prompted board members to demand increased security personnel.

After standing vacant for 17 years, the historic Highland Towers building in Highland Park will be demolished using pandemic relief funds at an estimated cost of $1 million. The Art Deco apartment building, which once housed wealthy auto executives, has been empty since 2009 when DTE shut off power for non-payment and residents were forced to leave. City and Wayne County officials announced the demolition as part of a larger $5 million blight elimination initiative, though community members express mixed feelings about losing the historic structure. The building now mainly serves as shelter for homeless individuals and has deteriorated beyond preservation efforts. Local residents hope to have input on what replaces the site while expressing concerns about potential gentrification.

At Michigan's first gubernatorial forum featuring all major candidates, independent candidate and former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan defended his administration's approach to federal immigration enforcement, stating the city has refused for twelve years to sign agreements making local police extensions of ICE. While Duggan emphasized Detroit police don't inquire about immigration status to maintain community trust, he acknowledged the city honors federal detainer warrants for undocumented immigrants arrested for crimes. Democrats and immigration activists criticized Duggan for not doing enough to protect residents, citing incidents where Detroit police assisted ICE operations that resulted in chaotic arrests and detentions. The forum also included Democratic candidates Jocelyn Benson and Chris Swanson, who offered their own perspectives on resisting aggressive federal immigration enforcement. # Key Takeaways

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is hosting a Black-Owned Business Market on February 14th as part of its Black History Month celebration, featuring nearly 30 local Black-owned small businesses in its Museum Promenade. The free marketplace, running from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., will showcase diverse products including specialty foods, handmade jewelry, personal care items, books, apparel, and art, with no museum admission required. Vendors were carefully selected based on their products, community initiatives, and connections to American history themes that align with the museum's mission. The event aims to support Black entrepreneurship while providing metro Detroit residents an accessible opportunity to shop locally and invest in their community during the Valentine's Day weekend. # Key Takeaways

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled her final budget proposal, totaling $88 billion, with $21.4 billion dedicated to school aid that includes raising the minimum per-student state funding to $10,300. The education-focused budget emphasizes early literacy improvement through substantial investments in tutoring, teacher training, and research-based reading curricula, responding to Michigan students' continued struggles with reading proficiency. Additional proposals include a back-to-school sales tax holiday in August and various tax increases on cigarettes, vaping products, and casino internet services to offset federal revenue declines and rising costs. The budget now moves to the state legislature, which must approve it by July 1, though lawmakers failed to meet this deadline last year, creating uncertainty for schools and other organizations.

The Legacy Tour is bringing a two-day cultural celebration to Los Angeles during NBA All-Star Weekend in February 2026, designed specifically for Black professionals and HBCU alumni to network and celebrate their heritage. The weekend includes two distinct events at The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood: an upscale "Suits & Stilettos" evening on February 13th and a spirited "Rep Your Legacy" day party on February 14th where attendees can showcase their school or organizational pride. Co-founded by Ted Riley and Kevin Lloyd, the multi-city tour aims to strengthen community bonds while honoring Black excellence and cultural impact through entertainment and meaningful connections. A portion of the event proceeds will benefit the United Negro College Fund to support educational opportunities for future generations. # Key Takeaways

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled a proposal to address a Medicaid funding crisis caused by President Trump's recent tax and spending legislation, which threatens the state's ability to tax insurance providers. Her plan includes approximately $800 million in new taxes targeting vaping products, e-cigarettes, digital advertising, and sports betting promotions, alongside $150 million in departmental efficiency savings. The proposal has encountered immediate rejection from Republican House leadership, who control the chamber and refuse to support any tax increases, insisting the state must operate within existing budgets. With over 2.6 million Michigan residents—roughly one in four—relying on Medicaid for health coverage, the state faces difficult choices between raising revenue, cutting services, reducing provider payments, or restricting eligibility if the funding gap cannot be closed.

Community Leadership Revolution Academy and Washtenaw My Brother's Keeper are hosting a free community event on February 28 that celebrates Black history through interactive programming spanning morning to afternoon. The centerpiece is an open house featuring Dr. Khalid el-Hakim's Black History 101 Mobile Museum, a nationally recognized traveling exhibition that transforms spaces into living historical archives with artifacts and narratives. The event includes a live reading from the youth literacy book "ABC's of Black History," a documentary screening, and hands-on activities designed to help young people personally connect with historical figures. The full day of programming begins with a mentorship breakfast, continues with youth-focused leadership activities, and concludes with the family open house experience at South Pointe Scholars Charter Academy.

Wayne County has returned over $3.8 million to former property owners who lost their homes through tax foreclosure, following Michigan Supreme Court rulings that determined counties could no longer retain surplus auction proceeds exceeding tax debts. This marks a reversal of decades-old practices where properties were seized for unpaid taxes and sold at auction, with counties keeping all profits even when sale prices vastly exceeded what was owed—a system that disproportionately harmed Black homeowners and low-income Detroit residents. The legal changes stemmed from two landmark cases that established former owners' rights to remaining proceeds after taxes and fees are deducted, with retroactive application to foreclosures before December 2020. While payments represent a step toward accountability for a system that stripped families of generational wealth during Detroit's foreclosure crisis, challenges remain around awareness, eligibility, and the lengthy court approval process required for claims.

A University of Florida researcher studied the economic impact of Detroit's Little Caesars Arena, which opened in 2017 with $863 million in construction costs including $324 million in public funds. The analysis examined lodging industry data from 2015 to 2022, comparing Detroit's short-term rental and hotel performance with Grand Rapids, Michigan, which has no major sports venues. The research found that sporting events at the arena had minimal positive impact on lodging demand, though major concerts significantly boosted short-term rental occupancy within one mile of the venue. Despite Detroit's overall economic growth and population increase after 60 years of decline, the study suggests the arena's effect on the hospitality sector was limited and comparable to cities without such facilities. # Key Takeaways

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has enacted legislation prohibiting smartphones in public school classrooms during instructional periods, with implementation set for fall 2026. The bipartisan compromise allows students to keep phones at school and use them during non-instructional times like lunch and between classes, while basic phones without social media access remain permitted during class. School districts must establish and publicly post their enforcement policies, though the law includes no penalties for non-compliance and exempts private schools and medically necessary devices. A complementary law mandates that schools develop protocols for smartphone access during emergencies such as active shooter situations. Michigan joins approximately three dozen states implementing similar policies aimed at reducing classroom distractions and improving student engagement.

The Wayne County Airport Authority is hosting a major outreach event on February 23rd in Novi to connect contractors and business owners with approximately $750 million worth of construction and concession opportunities at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and Willow Run Airport over the next two years. The day-long event features separate morning and afternoon sessions covering construction projects and concession programs, along with detailed procurement guidance including bidding and contract management procedures. The initiative particularly emphasizes opportunities for Black-owned and disadvantaged businesses through DBE and ACDBE certification programs, which have previously helped Michigan companies like Rowe Trucking and Value Engineering expand significantly through public contracts. Registration for the event remains open until February 19th, with organizers positioning it as a transformational opportunity for businesses to access one of the region's largest infrastructure markets.

Detroit's first Black woman mayor, Mary Sheffield, assembled 18 transition committees with over 330 members to guide her administration's early priorities and policy development during November and December. These committees, covering areas from education to arts and culture, comprised residents, professionals, and scholars who worked to narrow down priorities and develop recommendations for Sheffield's first term. Key focus areas emerging from the committees include combating chronic student absenteeism in Detroit schools, improving transportation access for students, and building a sustainable creative economy that supports local artists. An action plan incorporating the committees' recommendations is scheduled for public release on April 11, Sheffield's 100th day in office, while a citywide survey collecting resident feedback on priority topics remains open through March 6. # Key Takeaways

The Detroit Tenants Union has requested that the city use eminent domain to seize Leland House, a 22-story residential building that was evacuated in November following a power failure, and transform it into affordable housing for the displaced residents who cannot return. Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallett expressed caution about this approach, noting that city council must determine whether there's adequate public purpose and questioning whether spending tens of millions on repairs is fiscally responsible. Separately, council members are addressing another housing crisis involving a 26-unit westside building owned by cryptocurrency company ReaIT, where residents lost water and heat after a pipe break, with four households receiving city assistance while others left before help arrived. Council members have raised concerns about tracking all displaced residents and expressed frustration that evacuated tenants are being placed in hotels outside Detroit, creating transportation challenges.

President Trump has threatened to block the scheduled 2026 opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor, demanding unspecified concessions from Canada related to trade disputes involving dairy tariffs, liquor boycotts, and China trade talks. The White House claims Trump can amend the bridge's presidential permit and objects to Canada's control over crossings and land ownership on both sides, despite the project being a joint 50-50 ownership between Canada and Michigan. Former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and several Democrats have challenged Trump's characterization of the deal as unfair, noting that Canada financed the entire bridge while Michigan received half-ownership without investment. The dispute represents another escalation in deteriorating U.S.-Canada relations, though Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed confidence following a conversation with Trump that the issue would be resolved.

Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles, a beloved Black-owned soul food restaurant on Detroit's Avenue of Fashion, is permanently closing after 11 years of serving the community. The establishment became much more than an eatery, functioning as a vital community gathering space where Black Detroit families celebrated milestones, shared post-church meals, and created lasting memories over comfort food. While the owners promise the brand will continue in some form and hint at future ventures, they have not provided specific details about their next steps or closure timeline. The closing represents a significant loss for the Livernois corridor, a historic area for Black-owned businesses that continues facing challenges related to rising costs and economic pressures. The restaurant's departure has resonated emotionally throughout Detroit, where it earned a permanent place in the city's cultural memory.

Detroit has launched Rx Kids, a cash assistance program that provides pregnant mothers with $1,500 during pregnancy and $500 monthly for their baby's first six months, with no income requirements. The program, which began in Flint and has already served over 5,700 families across 29 Michigan communities, aims to address maternal and infant health disparities by reducing financial stress during critical early months. Early data from Flint shows promising results, including significant reductions in evictions, postpartum depression, and NICU admissions among participating mothers. The Detroit expansion is particularly significant given that nearly half of the city's children under five live in poverty and Black mothers face disproportionately higher maternal mortality rates, making financial stability a crucial health intervention.