So as promised, I want to kick off my discussion centered around my multifaceted life in Detroit with my FAMILY! (See December post for clarification). So as a brief history, my maternal great-grandparents (who I had the pleasure of knowing and learning from through 2008) moved to Detroit in the 1940’s after receiving a college education in TN, and coming up for a job in the auto industry. My great-grandmother continued her education at what is now Wayne State University, receiving a practical nursing degree and working as an RN in a local hospital. What an amazing feat for a  black woman in segregated 1940 America!

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But I digress.

I felt compelled to relay this to my readers because 1. it gives you a sense of the poignant significance of a college education within my family (I’m 4th generation), and 2. To show that my family has LIVED AND STAYED in Detroit since the 40’s. Thus, Detroit remains in my heart, my passion for the city is deep rooted. The city breed my family and I, gave us the spirit of hustle, of non-conformance, of never giving up. My grandparents are now the matriarch and patriarch of the family, and their home is ALWAYS open for business 🙂

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My grandparents at their Detroit home where they’ve lived for over 30 years

 

Now that I am an adult, I realize just how important this rich history is to me. Within the city, my family and I have several traditions that have shaped us into the family we are today. Though I have many responsibilities to juggle with my new career/social life, I love to actively participate in various activities with my family, and listen to the stories about Detroit of the past, and my family’s decision to remain here despite being labeled a wasteland, and the fleeing of several thousands. Some of our standard activities include:

  • Church every Sunday followed by family dinner
  • Visiting my mentally-ill uncle in Westland, Michigan as a family (bi-monthly)
  • Patronizing local, black owned-businesses in our neighborhood (our favorite is brunch at 1917 Bistro on Livernois!!)
  • Volunteering at various Detroit nursing homes/facilities with my grandmother, sister and aunt
  • Hosting family movie/game nights to bring the family together.
  • Celebrating each holiday together at my grandmother’s house (There’s a whopping 18 of us!)
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my mom and step-dad on my 22nd birthday (another family tradition, birthdays)

My little brother :)

My little brother 🙂

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my big sister, my best friend (who needs friends when you have a sister?!)

It’s so interesting being back in the D as an adult, because I can really appreciate the power of family, legacy and pride within our own little community. I consider time with my family to be AMAZING and I wouldn’t trade it for the world… but I do still need time with the FRIENDS I grew up with too!… stay tuned 🙂