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Latest Episodes

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American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson gets details on how United Way for Southeastern Michigan is helping feed families affected by inflation and federal funding cuts. Plus, Detroit PBS’s continuing coverage on caregiving examines the important conversations that should take place with aging loved ones.

How United Way for Southeastern Michigan is helping feed families and more on caregiving.

Fighting food insecurity, a special caregiving report about planning for the future

The 12th annual Small Business Workshop taking place in Detroit is just around the corner. We’ll get details on what entrepreneurs can learn at this year’s event presented by The LEE Group. Plus, we’ll share stories from caregivers about the challenges and rewards of caring for others.

A Detroit workshop helps small businesses, and we’ll hear the personal stories of caregivers.

A look at this year’s Small Business Workshop and “Caregiving Conversations”

look at this year’s Small Business Workshop and “Caregiving Conversations”

Our “Black Church in Detroit” series examines how churches are renovating or building homes to help ease the affordable housing shortage. We’ll talk with two local pastors about investing in their communities and meeting the needs of low-income families. Plus, we’ll hear a story from the “Faith in Detroit” project.

How churches are tackling the affordable housing shortage and our first "Faith in Detroit" story.

Examining affordable housing shortage and a story from “Faith in Detroit”

It’s time for Bookstock. We’ll have details on metro Detroit’s largest used book and media sale. Plus, we’ll meet last year’s Bookstock essay contest winner. Then, we'll hear from this year's Detroit Jazz Festival Artist-in-Residence, tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano.

A preview of Bookstock and sitting down with this year’s Detroit Jazz Festival Artist-in-Residence.

Bookstock returns, a conversation with Detroit Jazz Festival Artist-in-Residence Joe Lovano

During National Black Maternal Health Week, American Black Journal is featuring efforts to address health disparities impacting African American mothers. Plus, we’ll have highlights from a Detroit PBS event focusing on the challenges and rewards of caregiving.

Eliminating health disparities that put Black mothers at risk and a look at a caregiving event.

National Black Maternal Health Week, "Detroit PBS & The Caring Community"

The president of the nonprofit Life Remodeled talks about his organization’s new projects and initiatives. Plus, we’ll bring you a conversation from this year’s Detroit Policy Conference, presented by the Detroit Regional Chamber, about the state of education in Michigan and its impact on the future workforce.

Nonprofit works to improve Detroit neighborhoods and a talk on the state of education in Michigan.

Sitting down with Life Remodeled president, a look at Detroit Policy Conference panel on education

n honor of Women's History Month, our “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at women in ministry. We’ll talk about an initiative that supports women who lead, preach, teach or serve in the church. Three women faith leaders join American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson to discuss the challenges that exist and the importance of connecting with other women for spiritual growth.

A look at an initiative that supports women preachers and church leaders.

Black Church in Detroit series examines women in ministry

Meet this year’s Kresge Eminent Artist, Tyree Guyton. He is the creator of The Heidelberg Project, an outdoor neighborhood art space in Detroit. We’ll also have highlights from a panel discussion on the relationship between Black and Jewish communities in Detroit moderated by The Skillman Foundation President and CEO Angelique Power.

This year’s Kresge Eminent Artist, the relationship between Black and Jewish communities in Detroit.

Tyree Guyton of The Heidelberg Project, Detroit’s Black and Jewish Communities

Host Stephen Henderson sits down with Zama Magudulela and Thembelihle Cele, cast members from “The Lion King,” which is currently playing at the Detroit Opera House. Then, we’ll reflect on the legacy of the late Rev. Jesse Jackson with a look back at a 2015 ABJ interview where he discussed his efforts to create more leadership opportunities for minorities in the automotive industry.

“The Lion King” is back and a look at civil rights leader Jesse Jackson’s appearance on ABJ in 2015.

“The Lion King” returns to Detroit Opera House, the late Rev. Jesse Jackson’s legacy

The leader of a local nonprofit, “Encourage Me I’m Young,” talks about the group’s efforts to raise the reading levels of African American boys.  Plus, a conversation about the important role of philanthropy in growing Detroit’s economy and empowering children and families.

American Black Journal sits down with “Encourage Me I’m Young” and The Skillman Foundation.

Empowering African American children, philanthropy’s role in Detroit’s growth

American Black Journal examines the trends, challenges and opportunities for small businesses this year. Plus, we’ll talk with the head of a Maryland-based technology firm that’s expanding to Detroit.  And we’ll remember baseball trailblazer Ron Teasley.

A look at small businesses, tech firm expanding to Detroit and Negro Leagues veteran Ron Teasley.

Outlook for small businesses, Eccalon expands to Detroit, remembering Ron Teasley

Our “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the African presence in the Bible. We’ll examine the historical evidence that challenges the idea that the biblical text is solely focused on Europeans. Also, we’ll have details on a new project titled “Faith in Detroit,” which encourages Metro Detroiters to share stories about faith and resilience.

A look at the African presence in the Bible and a new project encourages stories about faith.

Black Church in Detroit series examines Black presence in the Bible and “Faith in Detroit”

Hear from Brian Taylor on his role as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Detroit Public Theatre’s “The Mountaintop.” Plus, George Clinton, also known as Dr. Funkenstein, and Maurice “Pirahnahead” Herd talk about creating and recording music at Detroit’s United Sound Systems Recording Studios. Also, listen to a cello performance from Sphinx Competition winner Andres Sanchez.

Conversations with Brian Taylor, Dr. Funkenstein and a performance from the Sphinx Competition.

Detroit Public Theatre’s “The Mountaintop,” sitting down with Dr. Funkenstein, cello performance from Sphinx Competition

ow a 1948 photo of two baseball players hugging after a World Series victory became a symbol of racial harmony and unity. Plus, American Black Journal looks at an oral history project that’s preserving the legacies of Detroit’s women jazz artists.

A pivotal moment in the history of baseball and the Detroit Women in Jazz Oral History Project.

Iconic hug photo from 1948 World Series, preserving the contributions of women jazz artists in Detroit

Longtime radio personality Gerald McBride discusses his new memoir and the importance of Black radio in Detroit. Plus, a preview of the new PBS documentary series from Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., focusing on the historical relationship between the Black and Jewish communities.

Gerald McBride’s role in shaping Black radio in Detroit and a preview of a new PBS documentary.

Radio personality Gerald McBride’s memoir, previewing "Black and Jewish America: An Interwoven History"

Our “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at how to engage young people in the church. Host Stephen Henderson sits down with Pastor Ovella Davis, Rev. Jonathan Betts Fields and Bishop Herman Starks to discuss why some young African Americans attend church on a regular basis, while others stay away.

ABJ talks with ministers about why some young people are not involved in the Black church.

Black Church in Detroit series examines youth in the church

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson gets details on how The Henry Ford in Dearborn is planning to celebrate the upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Plus, cartoonist Keith Knight talks about his award-winning work, which addresses serious issues in a humorous manner.

A look at The Henry Ford’s MLK Day programming and Keith Knight's talk at the Charles H. Wright Muse

Celebrating the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday at The Henry Ford, cartoonist Keith Knight discusses his work

American Black Journal is looking back at some of the guests and topics covered on the show in 2025.  

Host Stephen Henderson anchors this special episode, which includes segments about current issues impacting the African American community, conversations with African Americans in the arts and highlights from "The Black Church in Detroit" ongoing series.

American Black Journal is looking back at some of the guests and topics covered in 2025.

A look back at current events, the arts and ‘The Black Church in Detroit’ in 2025

look back at current events, the arts and ‘The Black Church in Detroit’ in 2025

Our “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the priorities for the church in the new year. Host Stephen Henderson sits down with Rev. Charles Christian Adams from Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, Rev. Cindy Rudolph of Oak Grove AME Church and Rev. Aramis Hinds from Breakers Covenant Church International. They’ll talk about what lies ahead for the Black church and its congregants in 2026.

American Black Journal talks with local pastors about their goals, hopes and plans for the new year.

Black Church in Detroit series looks ahead to 2026

We’ll examine the story and legacy of Dr. Ossian H. Sweet, 100 years after he defied segregation and sparked one of America’s most famous civil rights trials. Plus, an important part of civil rights history goes on display next year at Greenfield Village. We’ll get details on the Jackson Home and its role in the voting rights movement.

Remembering the legacy of Dr. Ossian Sweet, and a civil rights landmark finds a new home in Michigan

How Dr. Ossian Sweet defied segregation 100 years ago, the Jackson Home is coming to The Henry Ford

Local chef Quiana Rice from Cooking with Que is here with advice on how to eat to live. We’ll talk about healthy eating over the holidays and beyond. 

Plus, we’ll find out what the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History has planned for Kwanzaa.

Healthy eating with “Cooking With Que” and what the Charles H. Wright Museum has planned for Kwanzaa

Cooking with Que over the holidays, Kwanzaa at the Charles H. Wright Museum

We’ll talk with the granddaughter of African American composer William Grant Still, whose opera “Highway 1, USA” is playing at the Detroit Opera House. Plus, we’ll get details on Detroit Public Theatre’s unique take on a holiday cabaret.

A look at the opera “Highway 1, USA” and what’s in store for audiences at this year’s DPT cabaret.

Detroit Opera's ‘Highways & Valleys — Two American Love Stories’ and Detroit Public Theatre's ‘Holiday Cabaret’

he Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s Director of Design and Fabrication Kevin Davidson discusses the museum’s history in celebration of its 60th anniversary. Plus, Teen HYPE presents a play, “Two Detroits,” which explores youth, identity and social divides in Detroit. Teen HYPE CEO Ambra Redrick and Youth Advisory Council Member Omega Clemons share details about the play.

Celebrating The Wright Museum’s 60th anniversary and Teen HYPE’s play “Two Detroits.”

The Wright Museum’s 60th anniversary, Teen HYPE’s ‘Two Detroits’ play

Wright Museum’s 60th anniversary, Teen HYPE’s ‘Two Detroits’ play

Our "Black Church in Detroit" series continues a conversation we started last month about the connection between religion and politics. We’ll talk about the impact of the current political climate on the Black church and its responsibility to the community. Plus, we’ll look at how religious leaders are addressing politics in the pulpit and security in the church.

Religious leaders in the city discuss the impact of today's political climate on the Black church.

Black Church in Detroit series examines connection between religion and politics

We’ll check in with Covenant House Michigan about the state of homelessness among young people and what the organization is doing to address the problem. 

Plus, improv isn’t just for comedians and actors. We’ll show you how it’s changing the lives of some Detroit Public Schools Community District students.

November is National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, Detroit Creativity Project inspires youth

The state of homelessness among young people, empowering students with improv

state of homelessness among young people, empowering students with improv

We commemorate Veterans Day by talking with three members of the Detroit Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. Stephen Henderson sits down with Chapter President Tony Stevenson, Capt. Ashley Richardson and Norman Folson for an in-depth conversation about African Americans serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.  Then, we preview "The American Revolution,” a PBS docuseries by award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns

We commemorate Veterans Day and preview the upcoming PBS docuseries “The American Revolution.”

Saluting U.S. veterans: A conversation with members of the Detroit Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen

Our “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the intersection between politics and religion. We’ll talk about the Detroit mayoral race, which has two ministers vying for the city’s top job. Plus, we’ll discuss how the Black church is helping to get out the vote and promote civic engagement.

The connection between faith and politics and how Black churches are helping to get out the vote.

The Black Church in Detroit: The intersection of religion and politics

Black Church in Detroit: The intersection of religion and politics

We'll examine the impact of higher tariffs, rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and other economic changes on small businesses. 

We’ll talk about the top concerns of entrepreneurs and explore possible solutions.  

Plus, the CEO of a national think tank brings a message of racial and economic justice to Detroit Future City’s annual forum.

The economic climate's effect on entrepreneurs and a conversation with PolicyLink CEO Michael McAfee

Impact of economic changes on small businesses, a look at Detroit Future City's 2025 Forum

Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden, the first Black woman and youngest member to serve on the state's highest court, talks about her 2024 election victory and addressing systemic barriers for African Americans and women. Plus, for Homelessness Awareness Month, we’ll look at the state of homelessness in metro Detroit with Pope Francis Center and Detroit Phoenix Center.

Michigan Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden and Homelessness Awareness Month.

Justice Kyra Harris Bolden, Homelessness Awareness Month

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the core messages of the Easter season and how they resonate with the Black community. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Rev. Larry Simmons of Baber Memorial AME Church and Rev. Cindy Rudolph of Oak Grove AME Church. Plus, a conversation with award-winning bassist Ron Carter about his love of jazz and legendary career.

Easter season in the Black church and a conversation with jazz bassist Ron Carter.

Easter season in the Black church, Jazz bassist Ron Carter

We're devoting the entire episode to the important topic of caregiving. 

Our “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the creation of family caregiving ministries in the city’s churches with the initiative known as “100 Caring Congregations.”  

Plus, we’ll hear from community leaders about meeting the needs of older adults and their caregivers.

We’re looking at caregiving in the African American community.

The "100 Caring Congregations" project, panel discussion on the challenges and triumphs of caregiving

"100 Caring Congregations" project, panel discussion on the challenges and triumphs of caregiving

We're celebrating milestone anniversaries for two Detroit treasures. 

We’ll pay tribute to the 50-year legacy of the nation’s first Black-owned and operated television station, Detroit’s WGPR-TV 62.  

Plus, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History celebrates 60 years in the city.

A big year for Detroit’s WGPR-TV 62 and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

Celebrating the 50-year legacy of Detroit’s WGPR-TV 62, the Charles H. Wright Museum turns 60

The Detroit Black Film Festival is back for another year of showcasing African American films from around the world. Plus, we’ll have the story of one woman’s personal health journey and how it became an opportunity to help other Black women.

A look at the Detroit Black Film Festival and chronicling one woman’s breast cancer journey.

The Detroit Black Film Festival returns, how Lisa Whitmore Davis’ health journey is helping other Black women

Detroit Black Film Festival returns, how Lisa Whitmore Davis’ health journey is helping other Black women

Detroit jazz bassist Marion Hayden joins host Stephen Henderson to talk about being named the 2025 Kresge Eminent Artist. Detroit techno pioneer Carl Craig talks about his “All Black Vinyl” series that ran on Instagram during Black History Month. Plus, we remember Detroit broadcast legend Al Allen, who passed away this year at age 79. The show closes with an in-studio performance from Hayden.

2025 Kresge Eminent Artist, Carl Craig’s “All Black Vinyl” series and journalist Al Allen.

Marion Hayden, ‘All Black Vinyl’ series, Remembering Al Allen

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson talks with Bishop Bonnie Perry and Rev. Sister Veronica Dunbar of the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan about how they are connecting spirituality and racial healing to break down barriers. Plus, Henderson talks with Judson Center Chief Strategy Officer George Winn about the needs of foster children in Michigan.

The Episcopal Diocese of Michigan’s Spirituality and Race initiative and foster care in Michigan.

Spirituality and Racial Healing, Foster Care in Michigan

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the history, evolution and influence of African American religious music. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard and Dr. Brandon Waddles. Plus, we’ll take you to the 2025 Silence the Violence event and hear from participants who marched in honor of gun violence victims.

The evolution of African American religious music and a rally to end gun violence.

Gospel music’s influence in America, Silence the Violence march honors gun violence victims

New York Times bestselling author and historian Jemar Tisby’s book, “The Spirit of Justice: True Stories of Faith, Race and Resistance,” tells the untold stories of Black activists in the fight against racism. Plus, September is Black Reading Month. The observance’s co-founder Malik Yakini discusses its history and goals, along with literacy issues in this country.

“The Spirit of Justice” author Jemar Tisby and September is Black Reading Month.

Jemar Tisby’s ‘The Spirit of Justice,’ September is Black Reading Month

It’s almost time for one of Detroit’s most popular annual events. The Detroit Jazz Festival takes place over the Labor Day weekend. We’ll sit down for a conversation with the head of the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation and two of this year’s musicians. Plus, we’ll reveal the official poster for this year’s event. And, we’ll have a performance by the festival’s artist-in-residence, Jason Moran.

A conversation with the head of the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation and two of this year’s musician

A sneak peek at the 46th annual Detroit Jazz Festival

sneak peek at the 46th annual Detroit Jazz Festival

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Cleamon Moorer, Jr., founder of Eye Care For Detroit, a nonprofit that’s making vision care more accessible to homebound residents in Detroit. Plus, we’ll talk with Sakinah Tanzil, a 25-year cybersecurity expert, about her professional journey and the push to get more African Americans interested in the cybersecurity industry.

Stephen Henderson talks with Eye Care For Detroit’s founder and a cybersecurity expert.

Eye Care For Detroit, Cybersecurity expert Sakinah Tanzil

Detroit's faith-based community is helping address the escalating mental health crisis among Black youth. “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson talks with Bishop Mbiyu Chui of Shrine of the Black Madonna, Rev. Jonathan Betts Fields of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, and Karra Thomas of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) about efforts to support Detroit youth.

The “Black Church in Detroit” series examines faith-based efforts to support youth mental health.

Detroit’s faith-based community addresses the mental health crisis facing Black youth

Hear from six Detroit mayoral candidates about their visions for small business in the city. John Barlow, Fred Durhal, Joel Haashiim, Saunteel Jenkins, Todd Perkins and Mary Sheffield discuss their plans to help small businesses grow, solutions for the lack of access to capital, and how they would work with the current presidential administration to get federal funding.

Detroit mayoral candidates share their plans to help small businesses grow in Detroit.

Detroit mayoral candidates discuss their visions for small business in the city

“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson examines the challenges and triumphs of caregiving in the Black community. He talks with "Aging While Black” author Raymond Jetson about his book and being a caregiver. Plus, learn about a new initiative helping to create caregiving ministries in Detroit's Black churches and hear about financial, legal and respite resources for Michigan caregivers.

Watch highlights from Detroit PBS’ virtual town hall on caregiving in the Black community.

Caregiving in the Black community: Highlights from American Black Journal’s virtual town hall

American Black Journal’s "Black Church in Detroit" series looks at the influence Black women had in the church and community during the Great Migration of the 20th century. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Rev. Dr. Constance Simon of Fellowship Chapel and Rev. Paula Lee-Barnes from In His Presence Ministries about women’s role during the Great Migration and their leadership in the church today.

The “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the role of Black women during the Great Migration.

Black women’s influence in the church and community during the Great Migration

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson examines the impact of federal funding cuts on local nonprofits with McGregor Fund President Kate Levin Markel and Focus: HOPE CEO Portia Roberson. Plus, Henderson gets details about ARISE! Detroit’s 19th annual Neighborhoods Day from Board Vice Chair Dr. George Swan III. He shares how the event will honor the late ARISE! Detroit Founder Luther Keith.

The impact of federal funding cuts on nonprofits and ARISE! Detroit’s 19th annual Neighborhoods Day.

How federal cuts impact Michigan nonprofits, ARISE! Detroit 19th annual Neighborhoods Day

American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series looks at the history, evolution and influence of African American religious music for Black Music Month. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard and Dr. Brandon Waddles. Plus, contributor Daijah Moss attends the 2025 Silence the Violence event and talks with participants who marched in honor of gun violence victims.

The history of African American religious music and an annual rally to end gun violence.

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson gets details about the upcoming GhostLight Gala,  which celebrates the arts and honors two prominent members of Detroit's arts community. Plus, Henderson learns about the Black Artists Archive, a new organization created by Dr. Kelli Morgan to preserve the legacy and cultural history of Detroit's African American artists.

The inaugural GhostLight Gala and an organization archiving the legacy of Detroit’s Black artists.

Inaugural GhostLight Gala, Black Artists Archive

Host Stephen Henderson talks with John Conyers III about his new book on the life and legacy of his father, the late Michigan Congressman John Conyers, Jr., titled “My Father’s House: An Ode to Michigan’s Longest Serving Black Congressman.” Plus, Henderson gets details about this year’s Juneteenth celebration at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

The legacy of Michigan Congressman John Conyers Jr. and the Wright Museum’s Juneteenth celebration.

John Conyers III book ‘My Father’s House,’ Wright Museum Juneteenth celebration

Host Stephen Henderson gets details on a study about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Michigan residents. He also talks with two recipients of the Michigan Chronicle’s “Women of Excellence” Award: Meaghan Madison of Bank of America and Regina Strong from Michigan EGLE. Plus, we’ll pay tribute to journalist, community activist and musician Luther Keith, who passed away at the age of 74.

A Michigan COVID study, “Women of Excellence” recipients, and a tribute to Luther Keith.

Michigan COVID study, 2025 Women of Excellence Awards, Remembering Luther Keith

Detroit's faith-based community is helping address the escalating mental health crisis among Black youth. “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson talks with Bishop Mbiyu Chui of Shrine of the Black Madonna, Rev. Jonathan Betts Fields of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, and Karra Thomas of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) about efforts to support youth in Detroit.

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson explores the connection between spirituality and racial healing and how the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan is using it to break down barriers. He talks with Bishop Bonnie Perry and Rev. Sister Veronica Dunbar. Plus, he talks to Judson Center Chief Strategy Officer George Winn about the needs of foster children in Michigan for National Foster Care Month.

A piece of civil rights history has arrived in Michigan at The Henry Ford's Greenfield Village. Host Stephen Henderson talks with The Henry Ford President & CEO Patricia Mooradian about the Jackson Home. Plus, Henderson gets details about Black Leaders Detroit’s 2025 Ride for Equity, an event that advocates for access to capital for Black entrepreneurs and business owners.

Stephen Henderson learns about The Jackson Home and Black Leaders Detroit’s 2025 Ride for Equity.

The Jackson Home at The Henry Ford, Black Leaders Detroit’s 2025 Ride for Equity

Jackson Home at The Henry Ford, Black Leaders Detroit’s 2025 Ride for Equity

“American Black Journal” guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes talks with Nataki Garrett, director of the Detroit production of “The Central Park Five” opera coming to the Detroit Opera House. Plus, The LEE Group’s President & CEO Mark S. Lee shares details about the 11th annual Small Business Workshop and how it will help entrepreneurs and business owners navigate economic uncertainty.

“The Central Park Five” opera comes to Detroit and the 11th annual Small Business Workshop.

‘The Central Park Five’ opera, The LEE Group’s Small Business Workshop

“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson sits down with New York Times best-selling author Kwame Alexander for a wide-ranging discussion about his literary works, career and passion for reading and writing. Plus, Henderson gets the details on this year’s Bookstock, metro Detroit’s largest used book and media sale. He talks with three people connected to the event.

A conversation with best-selling author and poet Kwame Alexander and details on Bookstock 2025.

Best-selling author Kwame Alexander, Bookstock 2025

American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson talks with Dr.  Cleamon Moorer, Jr., founder of Eye Care For Detroit, a nonprofit that’s making vision care more accessible to homebound residents in Detroit. Plus, we’ll talk with Sakinah Tanzil, a 25-year cybersecurity expert, about her professional journey and a push to get more African Americans interested in the cybersecurity industry.

Stephen Henderson talks with Eye Care For Detroit’s founder and cybersecurity expert Sakinah Tanzil.

Host Stephen Henderson gets details about the Grow Detroit’s Young Talent program, which is now accepting applications for summer 2025. The program provides summer job opportunities for Detroiters ages 14-24. Plus, Black business owners on Detroit’s historic Avenue of Fashion talk about the area's resurgence after a decline that began in the 1970s.

Details about Grow Detroit’s Young Talent program and the resurgence of Detroit’s Avenue of Fashion.

Grow Detroit’s Young Talent program, Resurgence of Detroit’s Avenue of Fashion

“American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson talks with Satori Shakoor, who was a member of the Brides of  Funkenstein, about the documentary “WE WANT THE FUNK!” and Detroit’s connection to funk music. Plus, Henderson sits down with Michigan Poet Laureate Dr. Melba Joyce Boyd to discuss her new position, what it entails and what influences her poetry. She also reads her poem “Stage Black.”

The evolution and influence of funk music and Michigan Poet Laureate Melba Joyce Boyd.

Funk music and its connection to Detroit, Michigan Poet Laureate Dr. Melba Joyce Boyd

Host Stephen Henderson learns about a study looking at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Michigan residents. He also talks with two recipients of the Michigan Chronicle’s “Women of Excellence” Awards: Meaghan Madison of Bank of America and Regina Strong from Michigan EGLE. Plus, we’ll pay tribute to journalist, community activist and musician Luther Keith, who passed away at the age of 74.

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is coming to the Detroit Opera House March 14-16. 

Plus, in honor of Women's History Month, BridgeDetroit reporter Micah Walker sits down with two pioneering women in Detroit's techno music scene.

Alvin Ailey Dance Theater stops in Detroit and two women DJs talk about Detroit’s techno music scene

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, DJ Minx and DJ Holographic

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s Director of Design and Fabrication Kevin Davidson discusses the museum’s history in celebration of its 60th anniversary. Plus, Teen HYPE presents a new play, “Two Detroits,” which explores youth, identity and social divides in Detroit. Teen HYPE CEO Ambra Redrick and Youth Advisory Council Member Omega Clemons share details about the play.

The Wright Museum celebrates its 60th anniversary, Teen HYPE presents new ‘Two Detroits’ play

Wright Museum celebrates its 60th anniversary, Teen HYPE presents new ‘Two Detroits’ play

This week on American Black Journal: Preview the American Experience documentary titled "Forgotten Hero: Walter White and the NAACP.” Plus, American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson talks with NAACP Detroit Branch President Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony and Executive Committee Member Heaster Wheeler about the legacy of former NAACP leader Walter White and the role of the NAACP past and present.

A documentary on former NAACP leader Walter White and a discussion about the NAACP’s legacy.

‘Forgotten Hero: Walter White and the NAACP’ documentary, The legacy of the NAACP

Detroit jazz bassist Marion Hayden joins host Stephen Henderson to talk about being named the 2025 Kresge Eminent Artist. Detroit techno pioneer Carl Craig talks about his “All Black Vinyl” series running on Instagram during Black History Month. Plus, we remember Detroit broadcast legend Al Allen, who passed away recently at age 79. The show closes with an in-studio performance from Hayden.

We continue our look at the new PBS docuseries from Henry Louis Gates, Jr., "Great Migrations: A People on the Move,” with a panel moderated by “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson. Plus, Detroit Book City owner Janeice Haynes and author Kelley-Duren Jones talk about the 9th annual African American Family Book Expo, which promotes literacy and celebrates Black history.

A panel discussion on the Great Migration and the 9th annual African American Family Book Expo.

‘Great Migrations’ panel, African American Family Book Expo

“American Black Journal” gets details on two theater productions arriving in Detroit that focus on the lives of African Americans: "Ruby - The Musical" and "Confederates." Host Stephen Henderson talks with the directors bringing these Black stories to the stage. Plus, watch a classical string performance from the Sphinx Competition's Senior Division first prize winner.

“Ruby - The Musical,” “Confederates” play and a performance from the Sphinx Competition.

‘Ruby - The Musical,’ ‘Confederates,’ Sphinx performance

In conjunction with PBS’ docuseries “Great Migrations,” American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series examines the church's role and impact during the Great Migration. Pastor Lawrence Rodgers of Second Baptist Church of Detroit and Elliott Hall, the historian for Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, talk about how the Black church helped Southerners who migrated to Detroit.

A look at how Black churches helped Southerners who came North during the Great Migration.

The Black Church’s role in the Great Migration to Detroit

Black Church’s role in the Great Migration to Detroit

For the National Day of Racial Healing, W.K. Kellogg Foundation President and CEO La June Montgomery Tabron talks about promoting conversations on unity and racial equity. Plus, The LEE Group President & CEO Mark S. Lee talks about the trends, challenges and opportunities for small business owners in 2025.

The National Day of Racial Healing and the 2025 outlook for small businesses in Michigan.

National Day of Racial Healing, Outlook for small businesses

The Wright Museum’s Manager of Community Engagement Yolanda Jack shares the events planned for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Marshalle Favors, Director of Community Engagement at New Detroit, Inc., talks about the National Day of Racial Healing and advancing equity in Detroit. Plus, Detroit-based artist Sabrina Nelson talks about her exhibit “Frontline Prophet: James Baldwin.”

MLK Day at The Wright Museum, National Day of Racial Healing and a James Baldwin exhibit.

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