1. the fact of being who or what a person or thing is.

Detroit is a city infamous for starkly different identities between those who inhabit it and those who only know it from the headlines repeatability plastered above the local newspaper. Headlines, overhead experiences and singular occurrences create a false façade that cloud our vision of a cities true identity. An identity that is frequently evolving and not a universal representation of each individual sector that compromises the entirety of association we generate with words like Detroit and bankruptcy. One’s identity is far more often self imposed, than self regulated or created. The way we perceive Detroit is starkly different than the intended vision of like master-minds who first composed the fabric of the city.

Over the course of the 21st century Detroit has been a volatile city, whose seen its population and reputation rapidly change and evolve. Headline retail store, reputable chain stores and talks of professional sports teams have all covered the recent headlines of Detroit news, and contributed to the formation of the cities desired identify. An identity that draws favorable comparisons not ire when placed among the likes of Chicago, New York, Atlanta, etc.

To understand, and evaluate or judge Detroit, we must place it in its proper context. In its current state, the city of Detroit and its economy do not compare to other notable, or well-known marquee American cities. While the city has undergone, and is still in the midst of a significant transformation and restoration, it is tempting to watch from the outside as Detroit continues its trajectory as opposed to be amongst it.

As the city begins to bare resemble to  summer, and the streets of Detroit begin to be flooded with tourists and neighbors alike, thoughts and preparation for my next step professionally are underway, my faith in the city is being both tested and strengthen in parallel. The city of Detroit has taught me a significant amount about my personal desires, and where I find both peace and belonging. My next step is not determined but I can honestly say, whether I am here long term or afforded the opportunity to work outside Detroit, I will be actively watching the growth of Detroit and the future of the residents who physically and emotionally built the city. Detroit is at a monumental time, and I believe the next handful of years will be instrumental in establishing the national significance of our city, and how it regains its identify resembling of the cities heyday.