2023’s Most Impactful Issues for Black Detroiters

The year 2023 was filled with hundreds of intriguing news stories and developments that specifically impacted Black Detroiters. Some stories and developments represented accomplishments and hope, while others chronicled the opposite. However, here are eight news stories reported by the Michigan Chronicle over the past 12 months that have had, are having, or will have an impact on Black Detroiters.& Redistricting Efforts for Improved Black Representation Takes on Legal Fight The Michigan district maps approved in 2022 by the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission have been under fire since their inception. An overwhelming number of Black stakeholders felt that the redrawn maps were designed to dilute the power of Black voters. In early October, it was reported that the approved Michigan district maps are now being challenged in a lawsuit in federal court. Plaintiffs in the case argue that the redrawn maps weaken the voting power of Black constituents in Metro Detroit. The lawsuit also alleges the drawn district maps violate the 14th& Amendment, which allows for equal protection under the law. The suit claims that the new Michigan maps violate the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The trial, scheduled to start in early November, will determine if Detroit-area legislative...