All Voting is Local Michigan hosted a tele-town hall Monday evening with Detroit Action, the League of Women voters of Michigan, and Rep. Rashida Tlaib. The panel discussed Michigan’s expanded access to voting while explaining the absentee, or vote by mail, process.
Olivia Lewis
Olivia Lewis is a reporter for BridgeDetroit. She was formerly a reporter for the Battle Creek Enquirer and the Indianapolis Star. She has also worked in philanthropy for the Kresge Foundation, the Council of Michigan Foundations and Direct Relief International.
Posted inBridgeDetroit's First 100 Days, Civic and Community Information
Anonymous Twitter accounts cause stir among Detroit assault, harassment survivors and those accused
In the past month, anonymous Twitter pages have surfaced, allowing survivors of sexual abuse to anonymously share their stories while publicly naming accusers. The local community is now questioning this method of public storytelling and accountability as more Detroit names are called out.
Posted inCivic and Community Information
New report shows Detroiters positive on economic mobility, pre-coronavirus
Detroiters define entrepreneurship, their level of financial security and who they turn to for advice in a new report from Detroit Future City, DMACS and New Economy Initiative. The data highlights Detroiters’ positive outlook on economic mobility and inclusive entrepreneurship prior to the spread of coronavirus.
Posted inEmergencies and Risks (COVID-19)
Wayne Metro has received almost $18 million in coronavirus relief aid
Wayne County has pulled together almost $18 million in coronavirus relief aid and answered 12,000 applications for assistance. Over 8,000 applications remain, as the waiting list continues to grow. Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency has extended its hours, and continues vetting applications through the end of June to determine what needs remain.
Posted inCivic and Community Information
Detroit Action encourages active civic participation and absentee voting
Expanded access to voting is a promising development for Detroit residents. However, the threat of coronavirus still lingers, as does disbelief that elected officials will enact policy on behalf of Michigan’s Black and brown communities.
Posted inExplainers, Health and Welfare
Help for Detroit tenants behind in rent or facing eviction
Nearly 43 percent of Detroiters are unemployed and a quarter of city residents have missed a mortgage or rent payment as a result of the pandemic, according to a recent BridgeDetroit report. Here is a list of free resources to help Detroit tenants whose job security and financial stability have been threatened during the coronavirus pandemic.
Posted inCivic and Community Information
Detroit neighborhoods acknowledge Black death during city’s protests and coronavirus pandemic
Grandmont-Rosedale and Lafayette Park neighbors came together on Friday to host candlelight vigils as national protests continue. Neighbors say they wanted to acknowledge Breonna Taylor’s birthday and stand in solidarity for those protesting police brutality and George Floyd’s death.
Posted inCivic and Community Information
How to be an ally in Detroit protests against injustice, police brutality
Organizers of Detroit protests and longtime activists give newcomers and well-meaning allies advice. Listen, participate in protests, and advocate for policy change, say local leaders.
Posted inHealth and Welfare
Fight for access to clean water in Detroit continues in coronavirus pandemic
An executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer requires water services be returned to occupied homes in Detroit without payment for reconnection. Now the issue is upgrading pipes for access to clean water and getting the word out, says Monica Lewis-Patrick of We the People of Detroit.
Posted inEmergencies and Risks (COVID-19)
Black women at forefront of Detroit union workers demanding protection, inclusive plan for reopening economy
Of the four essential workers who spoke during the meeting, all were Black women. Two said they were caregivers to other family members with underlying health issues. While one essential employee said her work hours decreased due to the spread of COVID-19, all four women said they have continued working throughout the pandemic with insufficient pay and lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).