BUILDING RESILIENCE IN 21ST CENTURY DETR

Detroit is well-recognized as the Blackest big city in America within one of the most segregated metropolitan areas. This preeminence collapsed over the span of the past 40 years under the weight of racist public policy, public and private malfeasance, financial disinvestment, and the temporary usurpation of Black political power. In an effort to better understand current conflicts between Black citizens and their government, this class will examine the role of race in public policy formation, institutional systems, and government. We will examine the thesis that sustainability and racism cannot co-exist; that sustainability is rooted in inclusive social well-being now and in future generations, whereas racism is rooted in hoarding of power and resources for one dominant group. We will explore grass-roots efforts to address root causes, community development efforts to build sustainable communities, and alternative approaches to restructuring local economies.