Detroit’s Revival: A First-Time Visitor’s Surprising Take

YOU MEAN CANADA IS ONLY 1.5 MILES AWAY RIGHT NOW?!

I visited Detroit over the weekend. The Michigan Association of Broadcasters Broadcast Excellence Awards were held at the MotorCity Casino.  Jr and Kristen won the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Best Morning Show Award. I tagged along to the ceremony. It was a great party.  

I WONDER IF MARSHALL WAS IN TOWN?

I had never been to Detroit before. I’ve been there virtually if watching NFL games or the movie 8 Mile counts. This was the first time in person. I didn’t have much time to explore, but what I saw wasn’t what I was expecting.  

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PERCEPTIONS CAN BE MISLEADING

When you’re not from somewhere, your idea of it can be clouded by other people’s perceptions. My version of Detroit was based on past headlines, school history lessons (à la Henry Ford), lyrics from songs, and bios from bands. If I’m being honest, I was expecting it to be scary, dank, and dying. I’m so glad to say the version I had painted in my mind’s eye was absolutely wrong. 

SEE ALSO: Tried Michigan’s Oldest Bar—And Got Free Donuts!

According to the city’s website crime is down, employment is up, and businesses are investing in Detroit again. Not to mention, last year’s NFL Draft attendance was the highest...ever. These facts are reflected in Detroiters faces. The residents I interacted with met me with smiles, warmth, and pride. I saw tenacity. I saw community. I saw loyalty. It reminded me of a photo I took a few years ago...a little flower breaking its way through stony ground to get into the light.  It feels, at least to this outsider, that Detroit is making its way back into the light. Godspeed to that.

 LIKE THE TERMINATOR, I'LL BE BACK

Thank you for your hospitality, Detroit. I’ll be back, as I’m told there is a coney dog of yours that needs tasting.