Detroit Regional Chamber > Racial Justice and Economic Equity > Article Archive: Racial Justice & Economic Equity

Article Archive: Racial Justice & Economic Equity

Panel: How Teaching Critical Race Theory in Schools Prepares Youth to Create an Equitable Future

Key Takeaways: Critical race theory (CRT) is the exploration of how history has shaped today’s American social institutions, but it has become a catchall for anything related to diversity, equity,…

Detroit Teacher and Youth Restoring Idlewild, the Historical Vacation Spot for Black People

Black Enterprise Nov. 17, 2021 Jeroslyn Johnson Thanks to a former teacher in Detroit, many will be reminded that Idlewild is more than just a movie starring the rap group…

Panel of Detroit Women Talk Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Small Businesses, the Detroit Hustle, and Affordable Capital

Key Takeaways: Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is not a favor. It is a good financial business decision. DEI requires focusing on the largest and smallest businesses to…

Survey Results: Supporting Detroit Minority Businesses Through Access to Capital

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago has been conducting a survey of small and micro minority businesses in Detroit to highlight their experiences with access to capital and financing both before and during the pandemic. In a webinar, a panel of experts gathered to share preliminary findings and examine how these small and micro businesses fared during the pandemic and their near-term outlook.

Top Women Leaders in Michigan’s Cannabis Industry Talk Challenges, Resources, and Social Equity During Nov. 9 Panel

In 2008, Michigan became the 13th state in the United States to legalize medical cannabis. Ten years later, a 56% vote legalized recreational cannabis with licensed sales starting in 2019. With…

Detroit Children’s Fund Partners with Four of Detroit’s Nonprofit Charter School Networks to Reduce Racial Equity Gap and Create Opportunities for High School Students

The Detroit region currently has some of the largest racial equity gaps in the U.S. One of those gaps is the white and Black college graduation rates, with 60% white…

EMU Invites Michigan Entrepreneurs to Apply for the Executive Certificate in Entrepreneurship and $25,000 Venture Challenge to Launch Their Start-up

Crain’s Detroit Business Nov. 8, 2021 Eastern Michigan University The Center for Entrepreneurship at Eastern Michigan University is launching a new program, supported by university alumni and community partners, to…

Recap: Aligning Your External DEI Commitments to Your Internal Organization

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is top-of-mind for most employees, but conveying those values and garnering buy-in from leadership, clients, and customers can be challenging. Communications experts during a PRNEWS webinar shared where to start and how to approach these sometimes uncomfortable, complex conversations.

First Muslim and Arab American Mayors Make History in Wayne County Mayoral Races

Municipal elections in Metro Detroit saw history-making results for the region’s growing Arab and Muslim American community. Three communities in Wayne County elected their first Muslim and Arab mayors.

Detroit College Set to Make History as First Closed HBCU to Ever Reopen

The Plug Oct. 19, 2021 Martha Donastorg In 1928, The Lewis College of Business was founded by Violet Lewis with $50 and a mission to provide Black women education and…

NAACP Acquires Ownership Stake In Hello Alice To Empower Black Entrepreneurs

AfroTech Oct. 28, 2021 Samantha Dorisca The NAACP has sealed a partnership with Hello Alice, and it’s a pinnacle moment for Black entrepreneurs. In hopes of creating a new future for Black…

$750,000 Knight Foundation grant to expand pilot Wi-Fi initiative in Detroit’s North End

Crain’s Detroit Business Oct. 29, 2021 Sherri Welch A grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation will help expand high-speed Wi-Fi access in Detroit’s North End neighborhood.…

VH1 Explores What it Means ‘Growing Up Black’ in Detroit for Digital Series

The Detroit News Oct. 26, 2021 Maureen Feighan Detroit poet Jessica Care Moore is one of several artists and business owners featured in VH1’s “Growing Up Black: Detroit.” Daniel Mears,…

Kresge Foundation Among First Annual City of Detroit Arts and Culture Honorees

Detroit Free Press Oct. 27, 2021 Duante Beddingfield Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan commemorated International Artist Day this week with an announcement of the inaugural Detroit ACE Honors, which salute achievement…

Report: Black Women Most Likely to Take Advantage of Educational Options Offered By Employers

Knowledge really is power, especially in the workplace. Fortunately, Black women are well aware of this and are taking full advantage of the resources needed to advance their careers, a new survey says.

$50 Million Minority-Owned Cannabis Facility Breaks Ground in Detroit

Former NBA All-Star Chris Webber broke ground on a $50 million cannabis operations and training center in Detroit’s trendy Corktown neighborhood. Players Only, a Black-owned business that Webber co-founded with entrepreneur Lavetta…

Panel: How Black- and Diverse-Owned Small Businesses Can Access Funding

Key Takeaways Start building a relationship with financial institutions and lenders before you need capital. According to Jones, “waiting until you need capital to build that relationship is too…

Michigan Awarded Economic Development Grant from U.S. Commerce Department

On Oct. 21, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has begun awarding its historic $3 billion in American Rescue Plan funds to assist communities nationwide in their efforts to build back better by accelerating the economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and building local economies that will be resilient to future economic shocks.

Stellantis, National Business League Launch Black Supplier Development Pilot

Crain’s Detroit Business Kurt Nagel Stellantis and the National Business League have started a supplier development program intended to boost 13 Black-owned businesses initially and 3 million in…

Michigan Women Forward’s Annual WomanUp & Pitch Competition Returns, Apply by Nov. 10

Michigan Women Forward (MWF), the only public, statewide foundation devoted to Michigan women and girls’ economic and personal well-being, is looking for women entrepreneurs who want to start or grow…

Black Silicon Valley CEO Eric Kelly’s New Tool Could Bridge the Tech Diversity Gap

Silicon Valley CEO Eric Kelly has always been frustrated by the myth among corporate executives that finding Black talent in the tech industry is a challenge. Kelly fortified the staff of…

Michigan Sites Significant to Black History Given More than $1 Million in Restoration Grants

Michigan has a rich heritage when it comes to the Civil Rights movement and Black history, and current efforts are being made to ensure that it’s not forgotten. Five Michigan…

Former Nike designer plans to reopen Michigan’s only HBCU

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) have seen a steady increase in interest and enrollment since 2017, which many have directly correlated with the state of politics and the election of…

Chase for Business Honors and Highlights Black Businesses During Free Virtual Black Entrepreneurs Day Event, Oct. 14

The second annual Black Entrepreneurs Day, presented by Chase for Business, returns to the world-famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, Thursday, Oct. 14, at 7 p.m. The free event to honor…

An Invitation to People Serious About Equity: Founder and CEO of Black Leaders Detroit, Dwan Dandridge, Reflects on the Ride for Equity and Mackinac Policy Conference

Less than one month ago, Sept. 12-18, Dwan Dandridge, founder and chief executive officer of Black Leaders Detroit, rode his bike from Marygrove College in Detroit to Mackinac City. In an interview with the Detroit Regional Chamber, Dandridge shared that the Ride for Equity was originally supposed to launch from one of the two Black-owned marinas in Detroit and continue for 52 miles across the city.

How Walker-Miller Energy Services is Changing the Future of Energy Efficiency by Prioritizing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Sustainability is more than recycling and composting food waste. According to Malcolm Miller, director of business development at Walker-Miller Energy Services, energy efficiency is the foundation of sustainability.

Detroit Woman Launches Luxury Wine Brand, Looks to Shake Up Industry

DETROIT – A new wine hitting shelves at stores is normally not a big deal, but this one is different. Opulence Wine, the new Detroit wine brand that launched Thursday,…

Report: Women of Color Only Account for 4% of C-Suite Positions, While White Men and Women Succeed Them

For many Black women, getting love from U.S. companies continues to be an ongoing battle. More than a year after an increased focus on racial equity, diversity, and inclusion (DEI),…

Business Leaders Encourage Uncomfortable Conversations to Advance Workplace Equity

Getting comfortable with having uncomfortable conversations and expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts to include the LGBTQ+ communities and individuals with disabilities were among sentiments shared during a Racial Equity in the Workplace panel Wednesday morning.

Investing in Minority Entrepreneurship is not Philanthropic, It’s Business

In early 2020, 60% of Black-owned businesses were in distress and at risk of closing. By March 2020, 40% were in the process of closing. According to Candice Matthews Brackeen, executive director of Lighthouse Capitol, this was not a surprise. The distress rate for Black-owned businesses during the pandemic was 60%, compared to white counterparts whose distress rate was approximately 30%.

Detroit Month of Design Exhibits to Attend Sept. 23-28

Every September, creative partners across Detroit come together to show off their latest artworks and ideas during Detroit Month of Design. This month-long event is a citywide celebration of creativity…

To Contribute to Economic Growth, ‘You’ve Got to Invest Deeply in Your Culture,’ Panel Says

There’s no question that the last 18 months have been a learning process for even the most successful companies nationwide. During a live session on Tuesday, Sept. 21 at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Suzanne Shank, president and CEO of Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC spoke with Jay Farner of Rocket Companies, Harold Ford Jr. of PNC and John Tuttle of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on how they’ve adapted during this period of economic ups-and-downs.

Investing in Health Equity: The Impact of Mobilizing and Policy by Blue Cross Blue Shield, Henry Ford Health System, and PwC

Carladenise Edwards, Bridget Hurd, and Trine Tsouderos discussed health disparities and the steps Henry Ford Health System, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and PwC took to address them during the pandemic during a session focused on health equity and applying the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more.

Poverty to Prosperity: Investing in People Over Place

There are multidimensional causes that have shaped and continue to contribute to the racial wealth gap, including historic policy decisions and discriminatory practices. Day two of the 2021 Conference opened with a discussion on the impact of race and economic inequity, and the role that public and private sectors can play to create an equitable economic future for Michigan.

Four Detroit Month of Design Exhibitions to Check out Sept. 16-18

Black business group bikes from Detroit to Mackinaw City, seeking investment

Members of a Detroit-based organization on Sunday launched a 377-mile bike ride from the Motor City to Mackinaw City, making the case that African-American entrepreneurs, businesses and nonprofits are not getting their fair share of opportunities.

Bike Ride to Mackinaw City to Raise Money for Black-owned Businesses, Nonprofits

Photo by Kirthmon F. Dozier, Detroit Free Press An organization plans to bike about 375 miles to raise money for Black-owned businesses and nonprofits when they are in need. Black…

September is Hispanic Heritage Month: Here’s How to Celebrate

Photo provided by The COM Library Every year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, the United States observes Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans who…

September is Detroit Month of Design: Five Exhibits to Check Out

Black Business Resource Center Opens in Downtown Detroit

The Metro-Detroit Black Business Alliance (MDBBA) hosted a grand opening Monday, Aug. 30, at 6 p.m. for its Black Business Resource Center (BBRC) at 1234 Washington Blvd., located between State…

Annual By Black Conference Opens Registration, Limits to 150 In-Person Attendees, Oct. 13-15

Connect, grow, and promote your business at the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce’s (USBC) and National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters’ (NABOB) annual By Black Conference this fall, Oct. 13-15.…

Gov. Whitmer Proclaims September as Hispanic Heritage Month

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Whitmer is celebrating Michigan’s Hispanic population by proclaiming September 2021 as Hispanic Heritage Month. “Michigan’s Hispanic and Latino residents are an essential part of our state’s cultural…

1950s to Now: The History of the Supplier Diversity Business Initiatives

The origins of supplier diversity go back to the 1950s and 1960s when the civil rights movement called for an end to the struggle for justice and equality for Black Americans. Those protests ultimately paved the way for many groups to participate in the marketplace.

All You Need to Know About Becoming a Diverse-Owned Certified Business in Michigan

Diverse-owned business certifications help businesses that are owned by groups historically left out of the supply chain gain access to more opportunities and grow. The goal of these certifications is to create equity in the business community, so Black-owned, veteran-owned, and other minority-owned businesses have just as good of a chance to succeed and grow as majority-owned businesses. This reason is why getting certified as a diverse-owned business is one of the most important things a business owner can do.

Flint-Native One of 20 Black Entrepreneurs Selected for Hennessy’s $1m ‘Never Stop, Never Settle’ Program

In 2014, Flint, Michigan, became the U.S. epicenter of the global water crisis with more than 100,000 residents being exposed to highly elevated lead content. In 2019, Jonathan Quarles, a…

Black-Owned Haircare Line “Strengthen, Grows, and Continues to Give Health” to All Hair Types

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners shared how they…

Black-Owned Marketing Agency Founder Shares Key to Social Media Success for Businesses

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners shared how they…

Survey by Groupon and the National Black Chamber of Commerce Shows Strong Support for Black-Owned Businesses

A survey of more than 500 Black-owned businesses by Groupon and the National Black Chamber of Commerce shows strong support for Black businesses, but more needs to be done. The survey polled…

Entrepreneurs Access Network 2022 Cohort Application Opens, Deadline Sept. 17

EY is seeking Black- and Latino-owned companies for their Entrepreneurs Access Network (EAN) 2022 cohort with the goal of addressing and reducing the disparity gap in entrepreneurship to help minority-owned…

Salesforce Hosts National Black Business Month Virtual Block Party Wednesday, Aug. 25

Salesforce is celebrating National Black Business Month by hosting a virtual National Black Business Month Block Party on Aug. 25 from 3-7 p.m. Sponsored by Black Enterprise and Deloitte Digital,…

Detroit Black Restaurant Week Is Back, With Food Truck Rallies and a Longer Lineup

Detroit Black Restaurant Week, a toast to the city’s Black-owned eateries, returns Friday, with a new food truck rally and additional restaurants participating. East Eats owners Kwaku Osei-Bonsu (front) and…

Black-Owned Boutique in Detroit Trains Youth in Retail Operations

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners shared how they…

Black-Owned Small Business Creates “Custom Cocoa Experience” for Detroiters

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners shared how they…

Detroit Pistons and Shopify Partner to Launch Shop313, Detroit’s Source for Entrepreneurship

DETROIT – August 18, 2021 – Today, the Detroit Pistons and Shopify, a leading commerce platform powering 1.7+ million businesses, announced they will team up to launch SHOP313, an immersive, first-of-its-kind small…

Celebrate the African Diaspora at the 38th Annual African World Festival Aug. 20-22

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s African World Festival returns to Detroit for its 38th year, Aug. 20-22. More than 100,000 people attend and enjoy the food,…

4 Metro Detroit Companies Chosen for Apple Environmental Sustainability Accelerator

Four metro Detroit businesses have been selected for a cohort Apple Inc. put together for a new environmental sustainability accelerator aimed at growing Black- and Brown-owned companies.

8 Ways to Find Black-Owned Businesses in Southeast Michigan

There are 2.6 million Black-owned businesses in the U.S., and more than 44,000 of them are located or headquartered in Michigan. Almost 33,000 are in Detroit. Here is a list of eight apps and websites you can use to find Black-owned businesses in Southeast Michigan.

Black-Owned Cookie Shop and Café Provides Freshly Baked Cookies in Detroit’s North Rosedale Community

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners shared how they…

Black-Owned Natural Beauty Brand Creates Unique Handmade Products for Detroiters

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners shared how they…

No Preferred Racial Term Among Most Black, Hispanic Adults

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Most Black Americans, 58%, do not have a preference between the terms “Black” and “African American” when asked which term they would rather people use to describe…

Large-Scale Murals Painted During BLKOUT Walls Mural Festival Beautify the Walls of Detroit’s North End

Ten local artists and ten artists from around the U.S. painted the North End of Detroit July 24-31 during the BLKOUT Walls Mural Festival. Sydney G. James of Detroit, Thomas…

Black-Owned Norwest Gallery of Art brings ‘Love and Light’ through Art to Historic Detroit Neighborhood

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the region was a leading topic. Many local business owners spoke, sharing how…

Meijer Seeks BIPOC Michigan Business Owners for New Product Showcase

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Meijer announced today that it will host a supplier diversity product presentation event in September, giving Michigan businesses owned by Black, Indigenous and people of color the opportunity…

Black-Owned Online Coffee Shop Brings a Taste of Ethiopia to the Northwest Detroit Community

At the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2021 Detroit Policy Conference, the perseverance and future of small businesses in the Southeast Michigan region was a leading topic. Many local business owners spoke,…

New Detroit Offering Six-Part Leadership Series on R.A.C.E.

New Detroit is hosting a leadership development series that empowers professionals to transform businesses and communities through multicultural education focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. Learn about the principles of R.A.C.E. Get involved.

Lowe’s Brings Back Pitch Competition to Support Minority-Owned Small Businesses

Making It…With Lowe’s, a pitch competition for small businesses, is back as part of Lowe’s continued effort to carve out space for minority-owned, woman-owned, veteran-owned, and other diverse-owned small businesses…

Amazon Launches Black Business Accelerator to Build Sustainable Equity and Growth for Black Entrepreneurs

In June 2021, Amazon launched a free program for Black-owned U.S. businesses selling on Amazon.com named Black Business Accelerator. To build sustainable equity and growth for Black entrepreneurs, Amazon’s Black…

Amazon Black Business Accelerator: Program for Amazon Sellers

Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator is dedicated to helping build sustainable equity and growth for Black entrepreneurs by enabling their success as sellers. Grow your business with access to financial support,…

Lt. Gov. Gilchrist Announces Award to Increase High-speed Internet Access Across Michigan

LANSING, Mich. – Lt. Gov. Gilchrist and the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB) today announced an additional $15.3 million in funding awarded through the Connecting Michigan Communities (CMIC)…

Inaugural, All Black Produced, BLKOUT Walls Mural Festival

Gratis festival provides Detroit youth, and national and local muralists of color opportunity to reinvigorate the North End community of Detroit, Michigan, July 24 – 31 WHO: Artists Sydney G. James,…

Venture capitalist Wheat to lead startup accelerator program focused on equity in tech

7/6/21 Crain’s Detroit Business By Nick Manes Monica Wheat, a longtime veteran of the Detroit-area venture capital and startup community, is exporting some of her talents to a new accelerator…

Michigan’s Latest Budget Could Help Achieve Equity in School Funding

State lawmakers passed an unprecedented $17.1 billion budget on Wednesday, and federal COVID-19 relief funding will also send billions to schools. The latest budget hikes per-pupil funding in the state to $8,700, closing a persistent funding gap between Michigan school districts that state lawmakers for years have tried to incrementally close.

Invitation: The Skillman Foundation to Host Implicit Bias Webinar June 29

The Detroit Regional Chamber’s partners at The Skillman Foundation are hosting a virtual implicit bias webinar on Tuesday, June 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. The training is being facilitated…

Amazon commits $150 million to empower Black entrepreneurs

June 15, 2021 Amazon By Dave Clark Amazon’s new Black Business Accelerator provides access to capital, business guidance, mentorship, and marketing support to help Black business owners succeed as sellers…

Stellantis, National Business League form development program for Black suppliers

6/17/21 Crain’s Detroit Business By Vince Bond Jr. Stellantis is laying the groundwork for a Black-owned suppliers development initiative that will reach beyond the auto industry. The Stellantis-National Business League…

Huntington Bank commits $1 billion in Detroit region for lending initiative for minorities, underserved, small businesses

6/16/21 Crain’s Detroit Business By Nick Manes Detroit commitment part of $40 billion initiative Community Plan to focus on business and personal lending, racial social equity Huntington completed TCF Bank…

Fifth Third Bank boosts investment in Detroit-based First Independence

6/14/21 Crain’s Detroit Business By Nick Manes Fifth Third announces new $2.5 million investment in Black-owned First Independence Follows $3 million investment in 2008 Larger banks increasingly taking investment positions…

Celebrating Juneteenth Matters for Everyone

Honoring historical moments such as Juneteenth in the workplace can not only strengthen a company’s morale but its sense of value by illuminating its commitment to social and racial justice and equity in the workplace and community.

Instacart Announces New $1 Million Advertising Initiative to Support Black-owned Brands on the Instacart Marketplace

SAN FRANCISCO – June 10, 2021 – Instacart, the leading online grocery platform in North America, today announced a new advertising initiative, committing up to $1 million to amplify Black-owned consumer…

Talking About Diversity: Courageous Conversations in the Workplace

Talking about race and diversity can be uncomfortable. However, the injustice exemplified by the tragic killing of George Floyd and too many others over the years calls for us to…

Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance to launch searchable business directory

6/2/21 Crain’s Detroit Business By Annalise Frank The Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance is launching an online directory of 800 local Black-owned businesses Monday called the Hastings Street Index. Named…

Intersport Announces ‘The John Shippen Sports Business Summit’ Registration Open Now for High School & College Students of Color

DETROIT (May 28, 2021) – Intersport announced today that registration for ‘THE JOHN SHIPPEN Sports Business Summit’ presented by Rocket Mortgage is now open for all high school and college students of color.…

Gov. Whitmer announces school funding priorities to transform K-12 education

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced today her funding priorities for K-12 education as the state readies for major investments in our schools and teachers. Due to the American Rescue Plan and the recently announced state revenue increases, a surplus in…

Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall with Dennis W. Archer Sr. and Dennis W. Archer Jr.

Dennis W. Archer Sr. is chairman emeritus at Dickinson Wright PLLC and was mayor of Detroit from 1994 until 2011, while Dennis W. Archer Jr. is chief executive officer at…

Report on economic equity in Detroit underscores persistent disparities, provides recommendations for an economically equitable Detroit

Detroit Future City released The State of Economic Equity in Detroit, outlining disparities and systemic inequality that persists in Detroit and the region. The report focuses on six key areas:…

City of Detroit: Mayor names former Assistant Chief, Head of State Civil Rights Department, James E. White, as Interim Chief of Police

White will be stepping down from Civil Rights post to assume role effective June 1, after announced departure of Chief James Craig Mayor cites White’s leadership and integrity as Assistant…

Virtual Event: Michigan Chronicle Small Business Toolkit 2021

Detroit Regional Chamber director of government relations, Bernard Parker, will be joining a virtual event with the Michigan Chronicle to discuss how small businesses are navigating the ongoing impacts of…

Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall: Stephen Henderson and Rhonda Walker

On May 18, Stephen Henderson, contributor for One Detroit at DPTV, and host at WDET 101.9 FM, and Rhonda Walker, anchor at WDIV-TV 4, NBC, joined the Chamber’s Chief Operating Officer, Tammy Carnrike for a discussion around…

The Work Continues: With Racial and Social Injustice at the Forefront, Organizations Dive Deeper Into DEI

5/2/2021 Crain’s Detroit Business By Allison Torres Burtka As racial and social injustices and inequities have become more prominent in the past year or so, organizations have been taking a…

Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall with University of Detroit Mercy President Antoine Garibaldi

“The first thing to say is a college education is possible and affordable.” The University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) President Antoine Garibaldi joined Tammy Carnrike, chief operating officer of the…

Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall with Alexis Wiley, Moment Strategies and Sommer Woods, Woods Watts

The fourth installment of the Chamber’s Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall series delved into how to chart unique entrepreneurial paths. Speakers Alexis Wiley, founder, and principal of Moment Strategies, and…

Kresge Commits $2M for Vaccine Efforts, Health Equity in Detroit Neighborhoods

The Kresge Foundation today announced $1 million to bolster vaccine access and health equity through Detroit’s community health centers, community development organizations, and human service agencies. The foundation is also committing to an additional $1 million in vaccination support grants in Detroit in the coming weeks.

Statement from the Michigan Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) on COVID-19 Protocols and Vaccine Hesitancy in the Black Community

The Michigan Black Leadership Advisory Council is urging Black Michiganders to get the COVID-19 vaccine as cases and hospitalizations continue to surge across the state, especially in Black communities. Read the full statement.

Chamber Statement on Solidarity with the AAPI Community

View the official statement from the Detroit Regional Chamber.

W.K. Kellogg Foundation: Equity, Opportunity and Hope

March 24, 2021 W.W. Kellogg Foundation New research is now available on the experiences of Black Americans in the U.S. private sector. Produced by McKinsey & Company, in collaboration with Walmart,…

Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall with GS3 Chief Executive Officer Lisa Lunsford: Diversity and Equity Must Be ‘intentional’

The third installment of the Chamber’s Celebrating Diverse Voices Town Hall series delved into the perspective of Lisa Lunsford, chief executive officer and co-founder of the Michigan-based Global Strategic Supply Solutions (GS3). Lunsford,…

Comcast RISE Investment Fund to Detroit

Comcast has been working proactively to help small businesses throughout the United States that have been hit the hardest by the economic impact of the pandemic. In October of 2020,…

Black Economic Equity

Bernard Parker III, director of government relations at the Detroit Regional Chamber joined council President Jones along with Dr. Ken Harris, President/ CEO of the National Business League, Inc. and…

OP-ED: It’s Critical to Support Small and BIPOC-owned Businesses

By Pamela Dover While the pandemic’s ripple effect has impacted many businesses, a National Bureau of Economic Research from June 2020 revealed Black, Indigenous and People of Color-owned (BIPOC) organizations have taken…

Celebrating Black Leaders: State of Michigan’s Department of Civil Rights

During this session, Executive Director James White and Equity Officer Alfredo Hernandez discuss what employees should do if they encounter discrimination in the workplace and also how employers can create an…

Duke University Study: Governor Whitmer’s Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities “Making Lasting Structural Change”

LANSING, Mich. – A recent study by the Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy and the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices found that Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities, which is led by Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, has…

Gov. Whitmer Proclaims Jan. 19 as Day of Racial Healing

Governor Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed January 19, 2021 as the National Day of Racial Healing in Michigan, in conjunction with others throughout the United States.

MLK Day in Detroit: Get Involved with these Events and Organizations

How are you reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy this MLK Day? Check out eight ways that you can get involved from home below. Legacy & Justice: MLK Community…

The Detroit News: As COVID-19 Vaccinations Ramp Up, Skepticism Prevalent Among Michigan’s Black Residents

Dec. 22, 2020 The Detroit News Sarah Rahal As doctors and health officials celebrate the long-awaited arrival of the coronavirus vaccine, there’s a divide among Black Americans, especially in the…

Fifth Third Bank Announces $2.8B Investment to Accelerate Racial Equity, Equality, and Inclusion

Cincinnati, Ohio-based Fifth Third Bank, with 185 locations in Michigan, announced a $2.8 billion commitment that will provide $2.2 billion in lending, $500 million in investments, $60 million in financial…

Top Business Leaders Launch OneTen, Will Create One Million Jobs for Black Americans Over 10 Years

A coalition of leading CEOs and organizations are coming together today to announce the formation of OneTen, an organization that will combine the power of these committed American companies to upskill, hire and promote one million Black Americans over the next 10 years into family-sustaining jobs with opportunities for advancement.

Gov. Whitmer, Racial Disparities Task Force Release Interim Report Showing Progress in Protecting Communities of Color from the Spread of COVID-19

Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan COVID-19 Task Force on Racial Disparities, chaired by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, released an interim report detailing the significant progress Michigan has made in protecting communities of color from the spread of COVID-19.

Detroit Regional Chamber CEO Sandy Baruah on Supporting Black Owned Business during and after Small Business Saturday

The CEO of The Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce, Sandy Baruah, spoke with Fox 2 Detroit to talk about the importance of supporting black-owned businesses. He notes that half the…

New Report Highlights Strategies for Inclusive Recovery, Equitable Future of Work: National Equity Atlas

A new report by National Equity Atlas, in partnership with Burning Glass Technologies and the National Fund for Workforce Solutions, highlights the urgent need to center low-income communities and people…

Kresge to Make $8 Million in Grants to Detroit Racial Justice Groups

November 19, 2020 Crain’s Detroit Business By Sherri Welch 20 Detroit groups will share in $8 million in first-round funding Millions more expected for Detroit groups from Troy-based foundation early…

Progress Toward a Shared Vision of Economic Equity in Detroit

Detroit Future City (DFC) this fall released a report and outline to define a shared vision of economic equity in Detroit. According to DFC, in a circumstance in which the…

Companies at Work: Kelly

As companies continue to figure out how to implement strategies that combat racial and economic equity, Kelly Services, a recruiting firm that places talent at 90% of the Fortune 100 companies and long-time Detroit Regional Chamber partner, recently launched an initiative called Equity@Work. It is a corporate commitment to work to reduce or eliminate some of the unjust barriers in the workplace that limit access to meaningful work.

Grow the Talent Pipeline and Increase Per Capita Income

The talent pipeline in the Detroit region directly impacts the workforce needs and per capita income of our region. Students in the city and region are falling off at various…

NeighborHUB Grant Program Lifts Up Grassroots Efforts to Improve Local Neighborhoods

Grassroots organizations working directly in Detroit’s neighborhoods are receiving a boost from corporate grant programs like NeighborHUB. Through grants and in-kind business support, the program supports nonprofits focused on innovative…

Increasing Education Attainment for Greater Economic Prosperity and Social Mobility

It’s no secret that economic prosperity and social mobility are linked to education. There are nearly 700,000 adults in the region with some college but no degree. In order to…

Helping Detroiters Obtain a College Education

Education has been key in closing the racial equity gap and has proven to drive economic equity. The talent pipeline in the Detroit region directly impacts the workforce needs and…

The Kellogg Foundation: Michigan Business Case for Racial Equity

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s report highlighting the business case for racial equity stresses the importance of racial equity as both an imperative for social justice and a strategy for Michigan’s economic development and growth.

U.S. Chamber America’s Opportunity Gaps By the Numbers

Extensive research reveals that if four key racial gaps, educations, wages, housing, and investments are closed, a significant amount of wealth would be added to the U.S. economy. As the conversation continues to move forward, data is key to determining how to closes these gaps.

COVID-19’s Role in Economic Inequity

With more than 1 million Americans affected by COVID-19, data has shown that the results of the pandemic will disproportionately affect black communities. In many cases, this pandemic has highlighted…

Equity in Educational Outcomes

The talent pipeline in the Detroit region directly impacts the workforce needs and per capita income of our region. Students in the city and region are falling off at various points of their education – before graduating high school, before obtaining a college degree or skilled certificate, and before joining the workforce. Since the majority of Detroit students are Black, Latinx, or of other minority races, these populations are being disproportionately impacted by the broken talent pipeline.

The Makeup of Our Region

Understanding the composition of our nation, region, and communities is critical to developing effective solutions and making progress toward racial justice and economic equity. In our region, the major city…

Economic Impact of Inequality

The ideal Detroit region is an equal and fair community where all people have the opportunity, resources, and tools needed to achieve their potential, and to lead healthy and fulfilling…

The Cost of Accepting the Status Quo

A Letter From The President

The issues surrounding racial disparities are not new; they have been with us since before the founding of our nation. Even as America was established under the ethos of “all men created equal” our founding documents believe those words.”

Poverty and Policy: A Timeline of Discrimination and Missed Opportunities

As the U.S. ramped up the Arsenal of Democracy in World War II, an estimated 200,000 migrants came to Detroit exacerbating housing shortages and racial tensions. As America built the 20th century middle class and shook off the economic pain of the Great Depression, prosperity and wealth accumulation unfolded on a supremely unlevel playing field.

The Costs of Racial Inequity

The Detroit region is one of the most innovative and diverse regions in the nation. Its 300,000 plus businesses employ 2.5 million people and drive a regional annual GDP of $279 billion, which is greater than 29 states.

Point of View

“I am part of a conservative caucus that has shown remarkable support for reforms to the criminal justice system. These changes have led to more individual freedoms, more opportunities for Michiganders who have been through the justice system, and a more proportionate, balanced set of laws.” , Graham Filler, Representative.

We Went to the Moon, But Can We Address Racism?

The giant leaps that mankind takes are dependent on how a man, or woman, starts. Where a person begins. Whether a person has the will, the desire, and understanding to undergo personal change, to implement systemic change.

Leadership Detroit Class XLI: Resilience Amid Uncertain Times

Leadership Detroit, a signature initiative of the Detroit Regional Chamber, offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for professionals to take their leadership skills to the next level. Leadership Detroit takes a unique behind-the-scenes approach to understanding the inner workings of the region for existing and emerging regional leaders.

Inclusion and Equity in the Spotlight at the Mackinac Policy Conference

“The way Detroit looks today is directly rooted in planning decisions that the leaders of this community made in the 1940s and 1950s. That was the last period of growth in Detroit, and those decisions reverberate today and … unfortunately, many of those decisions were rooted in racial discrimination.”, Mike Duggan, Mayor of Detroit, MPC ‘17

An Equal, Equitable, and Inclusive Detroit Region Will Improve the Economy

As it looks to strengthen these efforts and put more resources towards the goals of uplifting racial justice discussions and achieving economic equity in the region, the Chamber will first look within to strengthen community efforts that already have a laid foundation.

No Excuses: Finding Diverse Candidates

It’s well documented that companies committed to hiring diverse talent see a positive ROI, but many still believe there is a limited pool of diverse candidates available or have difficulty creating a hiring process that attracts such candidates. Identifying and attracting diverse candidates requires a candid assessment about the underlying biases that exist within recruiting practices, as well as a dedicated and creative strategy.

How Organizations Can Build a Plan for Racial Equity

Diversity, inclusion, and belonging are no longer just fancy buzzwords or items on an HR checklist. Two pandemics – COVID-19 and racial inequality – came to a head this year, the former intensifying continued inequalities across healthcare and the economy, while the latter once again brought to the forefront the country’s long-standing history of systemic oppression and racism.

The Power of Acknowledgment: Talking Race, Recognition and Reparations with Rep. Lawrence

“Black America is still having our first in so many things. I mean, everyone was crazy with excitement because of got our first black woman to be on a major ticket. When we look at the disparities, think about the families who have the opportunity and access to education. One of the major things that happened in Jim Crow was denying education, denying ownership of property” , Representative Lawrence

Voices of Diversity: Standing Up to Bigotry and Discrimination

The COVID-19 pandemic is having a transformative effect on business organizations as they navigate the racial inequities that persist today amid a nationwide push for social justice.

Allies for Equity: Executives Julie Sweet and Tim Ryan Leading the Conversation

Two of the more outspoken executives on inclusion – Accenture’s Julie Sweet and PwC’s Tim Ryan–are doubling down on their efforts and accelerating the diversity journey of their respective organizations pairing action plans with their sharp rebukes of the killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and others.

Beyond the Moment: Long-Term Employer Commitment Key to Achieving Economic Equity

In the months since protests over racial injustice began springing up in cities across the country, Wayne County Community College District Chancellor, Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, has seen an increase in the number and urgency of conversations with corporate partners about building a more diverse workforce.

A Small Spark: Detroit and Redeveloping the Black Economy

Rufus Bartell is high on Detroit’s continued momentum even amid COVID-19. The entrepreneur and owner of the clothing boutique Simply Casual continues to help lead the redevelopment of the Avenue of Fashion and thinks Detroit can serve as the model for redeveloping Black America financially. The President of the Independent Business Association discussed, entrepreneurship, racial justice and equity with the Detroiter.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

The truism “action speaks louder than words” was evident when TCF Financial Corporation Executive Chairman Gary Torgow announced in July his bank will provide $1 billion in loan commitments to minority communities and minority- and women-owned small businesses, and $10 million in grants to assist low-to-moderate income home buyers.

Beyond Words: Achieving Equity Requires Deliberate Action and Investment

With a social justice sweeping the nation following the brutal murder of George Floyd, a Black man from Minnesota at the hands of the Minneapolis police in May, the corporate world has stepped forward with support and a declaration of a renewed commitment to social justice, diversity, and inclusion.

Watch: Stacey Abrams Talks Civility in Leadership

Stacey Abrams, founder and chair of Fair Fight Action, took to Michigan’s center stage to deliver a powerful keynote address on civility. An experienced politician, Abrams was the first female African American gubernatorial nominee for a major party in any state, receiving more votes than any other Democrat in Georgia’s history. She was also selected to deliver the Democratic party’s response to President Trump’s State of the Union address in February.

Corporate Sustainability and Stewardship: What Are Business Leaders Doing to Protect Michigan’s Future?

MPC19: A panel of business leaders discussed how Michigan businesses can be a force for good. Amazon’s Alicia Boler Davis, Dow’s Jim Fitterling, and Cascade Engineering Family of Companies’ Christina L. Keller joined Consumers Energy’s Patti Poppe to touch on key issues critical to sustainability and stewardship, including the environment, talent attraction, and diversity and inclusion.

Bill Emerson and Dennis W. Archer Jr.: Building Detroit for Detroiters

“We have been very intentional to make sure that the folks participating in the Rocket Mortgage Classic are a great representation across the spectrum of vendors and suppliers because it matters, it matters to the people of Detroit,” said Bill Emerson, vice chairman of Rock Holdings Inc. and CEO of Bedrock Detroit.

Mayor Mike Duggan: Detroit Must Grow and Move Beyond Racially Divided History

Returning to the Mackinac Policy Conference, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan delivered a powerful keynote about the often-forgotten truths of Detroit’s racially charged history along with ideas of how to sustain America’s great manufacturing city by learning from its past.

Wes Moore: Inclusive, Broad and Transparent Conversations Matter

Taking Michigan’s Center Stage, renowned social advocate Wes Moore, CEO of the Robin Hood Foundation and best-selling author, shared his personal journey from poverty to dedicating his life to improving the lives of underprivileged youth and veterans. Moore explained that inclusion is the first step to shrink the opportunity gap and enhance quality of life in communities that feel left behind.

Amy Liu and Diverse Policy Leaders: Michigan’s Future Economy Depends on Fostering Inclusive Growth Today

While the state’s economy has expanded substantially since emerging from the Great Recession, in an age of immense technological disruption, this growth has not translated into larger economic participation and prosperity. Wages remain depressed and many in the workforce have found themselves excluded from these gains.