Who Really Benefits from the Renaissance Center Deal? Teron Haynes is Fighting for Detroiters to

“I really love black people.” That simple declaration tells you plenty about Teron Haynes., but his journey to advocating for Detroiters is anything but simple. Raised in the St. Louis Metro East area, Teron enlisted in the Army at 17, earned his degree from Methodist University, and eventually made Detroit home. His father instilled a love for Black people, while his mother’s advocacy for his two younger brothers with autism demonstrated what lifelong commitment looks like. Now serving on the Renaissance Center and East Riverfront Projects Neighborhood Advisory Council, Teron is questioning who benefits when billions in development reshape Detroit’s riverfront. “Oh, I got elected,” he explains about entering a process where community voices too often struggle to influence decisions. From Southern Baptist family roots to organizing for economic fairness, Teron connects generations of Black advocacy to Detroit’s future. His conviction is clear: “Detroiters don’t deserve it,” when development creates harm instead of opportunity. Hear why representation means more than having a seat at the table.