social justice

Many social inequities and tendencies toward violence exist throughout the country.  So, a few young Michigan residents formed an organization called "Creating a Righteous Environment Around Me," or "The Cream" for short.  The group seeks to promote community peace and understanding through special events, including an upcoming gun buyback event in Ypsilanti.  Three of The Cream's top members, Mwai Leonard, Srikar Chiravuri, and Tru Ajani, talk about their work in this week's "On the Ground-Ypsi" with WEMU's Patrick Campion and Concentrate Media's Sarah Rigg.

Sickle cell disease afflicts thousands of people across the country, especially people of color.  This particular disease has led to a number of dangerous health issues and can even be fatal.  In this week's "Washtenaw United," WEMU's David Fair sits down with University of Michigan research assistant professor Dr. Sarah Reeves and United Way of Washtenaw County president Pam Smith about what work is being to combat the disease and the social stigma that comes with it.

January 21st is Martin Luther King Day, an annual federal American holiday that celebrates the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.  It is intended to celebrate the life and achievements of the influential American civil rights leader. 

At Eastern Michigan University, nearly a week of activities are planned, including a keynote address by Keith Boykin, New York Times bestselling author and TV's leading commentator on politics, race, and sexual orientation.  89.1 WEMU's Lisa Barry spoke to Boykin about the current state of politics and his upcoming address at EMU.

The 23rd annual Evening of Sacred Song is taking place December 1st in Ann Arbor, benefiting the Washtenaw County Poor People's Campaign.  89.1 WEMU's Lisa Barry talked with Lisa Bashert and Ayron Smith-Douglas about the concert giving voice to social change, environmental justice, and peace.

With handwritten cards and "comfort items" purchased with money raised in Ann Arbor, a contingent of area activists traveled to Texas this week to raise awareness about hundreds of children at an immigration detention camp separated from their families.

89.1 WEMU's Lisa Barry spoke with Marcy Epstein, one of the participants who traveled from Ann Arbor this week in hopes of making a difference.

Whether it's "Me Too" or "Time's Up," men and women have been sharing different messages lately by wearing a special pin or button.  It was one year ago when Kate Lind of Ann Arbor co-created a special button in advance of last year’s women's march that was worn by people all over the world.

Now she has created a new button for this year's upcoming march and joined 89.1 WEMU'S Lisa Barry to talk about that and other efforts she's highlighting with wearable buttons.

 Eastern Michigan University on Friday will host a social justice forum and workshops.

A Day in Social Justice is a one day forum addressing issues like class, race, sexism, and education.