Author: Ebony JJ Curry

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Detroit's mayoral race for 2025 is picking up momentum as candidates step forward and committees take shape. Residents are paying attention, asking tough questions about leadership and vision. Attorney Todd Russell Perkins has now entered the race, bringing his legal and civic experience to the table. His decision comes after deep reflection and ongoing dialogue with the community. An exploratory committee took a hard look at the viability of Perkins’ campaign, listening to community leaders and gathering feedback from Detroiters to shape his platform. Perkins is clear about

Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield has officially announced her candidacy for mayor, marking a significant step in the race to succeed Mayor Mike Duggan as he eyes a potential gubernatorial campaign in 2025. Sheffield, who has served on the City Council for 11 years, enters the race with a platform focused on inclusive growth and addressing long-standing challenges faced by Detroit residents. Sheffield’s time on the council began during a critical moment in Detroit’s history, coinciding with the city’s emergence from bankruptcy. “Originally when I came into

Denise J. Lewis takes the helm as the new Chairperson of the UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust Board, stepping into a critical leadership role following the passing of founding member Robert Naftaly. Her appointment, effective immediately, marks a significant moment for the Trust, which serves as a vital lifeline for UAW retirees and their families. Lewis has served on the Trust’s Board of Trustees since January 2023, bringing seasoned expertise and a deep commitment to governance and financial stewardship. Her prior contributions have spanned oversight of audits, budgets,

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan’s decision to appoint Melia Howard as the city’s new Deputy Mayor brings a new chapter for community leadership. Howard steps into this role after years of service as Director of Community Engagement. Her work has consistently placed residents at the center of Detroit’s development efforts. With Todd Bettison now moving to serve as Interim Police Chief, Howard assumes the Deputy Mayor position as the second woman in the city’s history to hold this title. Her appointment represents a commitment to making sure Detroiters’

Detroit’s legacy of powerful community-centered journalism continues with Erin Perry’s appointment as Editor-in-Chief at Outlier Media. As a native Detroiter and experienced media leader, Perry stands ready to uphold the organization’s mission: delivering news that speaks to the heart of the community, the people of Detroit. This moment, both a reflection of the city’s deep-rooted media legacy and its future, comes as Sarah Alvarez, founder of Outlier Media, transitions out of the Editor-in-Chief role she has held since the organization’s inception. Perry’s journey to this leadership position began

Mayor Mike Duggan has appointed Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison as the Interim Chief of Police for the Detroit Police Department (DPD), following the announcement of Chief James E. White’s upcoming departure. White, who has served Detroit for three years as Chief, will leave the department to become the new CEO of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network. As Interim Chief, Bettison will step into a role where he brings extensive law enforcement experience and deep-rooted community relationships. Todd Bettison’s career with DPD spans over 27 years, beginning as

Detroit Police Chief James White is stepping into a pivotal new role, leading the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN), Michigan’s largest mental health safety net organization. In a unanimous vote by the DWIHN board of directors, White was chosen over Michael Hunter, president of Team Wellness Center, to become the next CEO. His appointment, however, has sparked a range of reactions, with some expressing excitement about his leadership while others raise concerns over his past as Detroit’s police chief. White, who has served as the city’s top

Garlin Gilchrist stands rooted in Detroit’s story, deeply connected to the lives of its residents. Born and raised in the city, Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor reflects the spirit of its people. As the upcoming election approaches, Gilchrist speaks directly to the communities that have often been left out of the political conversation. Detroiters, especially Black Detroiters, know that their vote has the power to shift the direction of this state and the policies that impact their neighborhoods. For Gilchrist, this election represents more than just political positioning—it’s about accountability.

Black entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of innovation and resilience within our communities, driving not just economic growth but also cultural and social progress. Their success is vital to creating a more equitable society where opportunities are accessible to all, not just a privileged few. Ensuring that Black entrepreneurs have a fair chance at receiving resources and funding isn’t just a matter of fairness; it’s a necessity for the vibrant, diverse economy that truly reflects our collective potential. Loren Townes, Jr. stepping into the role of Director of Entrepreneurial

Chanell Scott Contreras made history in November 2023 as the first Black woman CEO of a green bank in the U.S. Michigan Saves, under her leadership, offers financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, helping everyday folks save money and go green. Scott Contreras emphasizes the importance of green banks in driving the transition to clean energy, especially for the Black community. “Green banks are vital for driving the transition to clean energy, providing essential financing and incentives to make renewable energy and energy efficiency projects