The Queen Hip-hop Poetry is from Detroit, jessica Care moore. A true embodiment of the city’s spirit she puts forth a Blue Collar attitude towards poetry. From her roots in blue-collar Detroit to her diverse talents spanning poetry, music, activism, and art, jessica Care moore is a force to be reckoned with. Join her as she delves into her deep connection with hip-hop, literature, and community activism, offering unique insights into justice, culture, and family dynamics. This feature highlights many legends of Detroit culture that have passed on: Amp Fiddler (Funk/Soul), Legacy (Spoken Word Poetry), J Dilla (Hip-hop), Proof (Hip-hop), Baatin (Hip-hop), JoAnn Watson (Social Justice) Chokwe Lumumba (Social Justice) and her Father. This interview also travels the world because that is the eclectic nature of jessica Care moore. Meet jessica Care moore on Detroit is Different. Follow her journey on Instagram: @jessicacaremoor and @wearescorpio
Embark on a journey of empowerment and resilience with Latrice Delgado-Macon, the founder of Detroit Fashion Community and a passionate advocate for Black Mental Health, as she shares her remarkable story on Detroit is Different. With a rich family history in fashion design and modeling, Latrice’s mission is to foster creativity and innovation within the fashion community, empowering individuals to discover their unique voices. From organizing confidence-boosting fashion shows at Wayne State University to her ventures in film styling, luxury store openings, and fashion walks, Latrice’s experiences exemplify strength in adversity. Join us as Latrice opens up about overcoming grief and emerging with unwavering confidence. As a mother, wife, and business leader, she’s now setting her sights on winning the title of Mrs. Universe this summer, embodying the spirit of determination and possibility. Follow Latrice Delgado-Macon on Instagram @latricedelgadomacon for more insights into her journey and the world of fashion.
Feodies Shipp III, hailing from Detroit’s Bagley neighborhood, holds a deep appreciation for both the vibrant culture of the University of Michigan and the rich tapestry of Detroit. With roots entrenched in family ties to Hartford Memorial Baptist Church and the Great Plains, Feodies’ journey encompasses his formative years at U of M in the 90s to his current roles, including spearheading operations at the University of Michigan Detroit Center. Having traversed the nation while representing the university at college fairs, Feodies brings a nuanced understanding of American culture to his role. Today, as the host of the Distinctly Detroit Podcast, he engages in discussions spanning topics from community policing to icons like Jalen Rose, all against the backdrop of events like Concert of Colors. Dive into the multifaceted world of Detroit with Feodies Shipp III on the Detroit is Different podcast.
Attorney Jeff Edison radiates the essence of African style and grace, setting a remarkable tone upon meeting him. With a warm smile and infectious laughter, he captivates attention effortlessly, revealing himself as one of the most adept and eloquent communicators one could encounter. Rooted in Detroit, his journey began amidst the fervent struggle to integrate Black history, literature, and studies into the high school curriculum in the late ’60s. Witnessing the transformative impact of activism firsthand, from protesting for change at Mumford High School to challenging racial barriers at Wayne State University Law School alongside luminaries like Chokwe Lumumba, Edison’s commitment to advancing Black self-actualization remains unwavering. In this Detroit is Different, we delve into his experiences navigating the intersection of advocacy and entrepreneurship in America, working with to freedom fighters like his friend and my mentor the late Attorney Chokwe Lumumba. We also talk about his journey exploring the interconnected threads of our ancestral heritage and living half the year in Ghana. Surprisingly we talk about Bunchy Carter and his family’s involvement in the battle for Black liberation with the LA Black Panthers. Join us as we uncover the Detroit is Different perspective through the lens of Attorney Jeff Edison’s remarkable life.
Behind the scenes of the film industry, where meticulous planning and coordination precede the glitz and glamour of Lights, Camera, and Action is where Rachel Simone thrives. Hailing from generations entrenched in Detroit, she embodies the spirit of Detroit, having grown up embracing the Dexter Blvd neighborhood as one of the many Broad Street Parade kids (like me and so many others). Now, her expertise in production spans globally, as she shares her journey from humble beginnings to working with renowned names like Dave Chappelle and CNN. In this episode, we delve into Rachel’s unwavering passion for defying expectations in spaces historically unwelcoming to young people, Black people, and Women. As Production Bae, her success paves the way for others, demonstrating the transformative power of creativity in creating opportunities. Join us as we talk about Rachel’s inspiring vision of success and her dedication to the art of production in this Detroit is Different.
Detroit has been a cornerstone of the national reparations movement for decades. The city’s activists, politicians, and grassroots organizers have not only led local efforts but have also influenced national policy and discourse on reparations for descendants of enslaved Black Americans.
“This is not a handout—it’s a debt owed.”
Reparations Ray Jenkins
In “A Debt Owed, Not a Handout,” a powerful video essay produced by Khary Frazier and executive produced by Detroit is Different, we journey through this crucial yet often overlooked history. This immersive film interweaves historical footage, interviews, music, and animation to tell the compelling story of Detroit’s fight for reparations—making it clear that this is about justice, not charity.
“We built this country with our hands until they were raw… and received so little credit and so little benefit.”
Judge Deborah Thomas
Reparations have long been dismissed as a fringe issue, but this documentary proves otherwise. Through personal accounts, archival footage, and firsthand perspectives, it reveals Detroit’s central role in shaping the national reparations debate.
Detroit has been home to legislative pioneers like Congressman John Conyers, activists like JoAnn Watson, and grassroots leaders like Reparations Ray Jenkins—figures who dedicated their lives to pushing America to atone for its past. Their work set the stage for policies still being debated today, including HR 40, the bill introduced in 1989 to study the impact of slavery and recommend forms of reparations.
What You Gain from Watching This Film A Deeper Understanding of Reparations & Its Importance The film breaks down the historical, moral, and economic rationale for reparations, showing how systemic oppression has persisted for centuries.
This documentary ensures that the names and contributions of Detroit’s reparations warriors are not forgotten.
This film honors their legacies, demonstrating how their efforts continue to shape the reparations movement today.
Reparations Ray Jenkins – The man who relentlessly pushed for HR 40, following John Conyers everywhere, demanding action.
John Conyers – The longest-serving African American congressman, responsible for introducing HR 40 in 1989.
JoAnn Watson – A relentless Detroit city council member and reparations advocate who helped bring the conversation to policy levels.
Chokwe Lumumba, Imari Obadele, & Gaidi Obadele – Leaders in the Republic of New Afrika, who argued for land-based reparations.
“The Japanese got reparations. Jewish people got reparations. Why not us?”
Reparations Ray Jenkins
A Multi-Sensory, Immersive Experience: More than just a historical retelling, this documentary is a visually and sonically rich experience that engages audiences deeply.
Dynamic Editing & Cinematography: Blending archival footage, animated reenactments, and contemporary interviews to create a gripping narrative.
Animation & Visual Storytelling: Bringing key moments to life in a fresh and engaging way.
Music by Detroit Artists: Featuring original compositions from Khary WAE Frazier, Joe Black, Ian Sherman, Nick Speed, and Sterling Toles, creating an emotionally powerful soundtrack.
Learn about Detroit’s pivotal role in the reparations movement: Engage in conversations with activists and community members.
Honor the work of Black leaders and be inspired to continue the fight: Connect with a network of like-minded individuals committed to justice.
Special Acknowledgments This documentary would not have been possible without the contributions of
Kwazi Akwamu
Mike Anderson
Omari Barksdale
Ken Coleman
John Conyers III
Dr. Monica Conyers
Janis Hazel
Ricardo Jenkins
Jamon Jordan (Detroit’s Historian)
Cecily McClellan
Judge Deborah Thomas
Key Themes & Takeaways
Reparations is a Debt, Not a Gift – The film makes it clear that reparations are not about guilt, but about justice. The U.S. government has paid reparations to Japanese Americans, Holocaust survivors, and Native American tribes—yet Black Americans are still waiting for restitution for 246 years of unpaid labor.
Legislative Action is Crucial – HR 40 remains a key battleground in the reparations fight. The film underscores how John Conyers’ work and the continued advocacy of leaders like Sheila Jackson Lee are crucial for legislative progress.
Reparations Have Global Precedents – From post-WWII Germany to South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, this film shows that reparations have been successfully implemented in other nations—proving that it can and should be done in America.
Detroit’s Role in Black Liberation is Unmatched – From the Republic of New Afrika to the Nation of Islam, Detroit has long been a home for revolutionary Black thought. This film cements the city’s place as a leader in the fight for reparations.
Join Authentically Detroit as they venture into the heart of Detroit is Different for an enriching conversation delving into the profound legacy of Donna Givens Davidson’s family in Black activism, organizing, and the pursuit of freedom and justice. Hosts Orlando Bailey and Donna Givens Davidson delve into the essence of community empowerment in Detroit’s Black community, drawing upon Donna’s revelations about her father’s struggles as a Black physician during times of inequality, and her grandmother’s influential role in international nation-building and human rights advocacy. Reflecting on the legacy of the Honorable JoAnn Watson as a beacon of political empowerment, Donna and Orlando emphasize the importance of amplifying voices and fostering stronger ties between local political leadership and the community. This episode serves as a compelling discourse on practical steps towards fostering a grassroots, community-centered reality in Detroit. Authentically Detroit, a weekly podcast, offers insightful discussions with guests on the forefront of Detroit’s community engagement, providing an unfiltered perspective on issues impacting the city’s residents.
For over two decades, Teen Hype & Ambra Redrick have challenged the age-old notion of children being seen and not heard. Ambra candidly shares her journey co-founding Teen Hype on Detroit is Different, tracing back to her upbringing by her nurturing grandparents in a Leave it to Beaver style household. Transitioning into motherhood as a teenager in high school, Ambra’s reality took a significant turn, leading her to discover her purpose in connecting with people and giving back to her community through various roles including social work and the Department of Corrections. Returning to her alma mater, Cooley High School, marked the inception of Teen Hype’s whirlwind journey, which has since empowered tens of thousands of Detroiters with a deeper understanding of the world and themselves. Now celebrating two decades of impact, Teen Hype engages middle and high school students across Metro-Detroit, offering transformative experiences through theater, peer groups, and interactive sessions that equip young people with knowledge on sex, relationships, community engagement, and self-discovery.
