This Week on One Detroit:

‘The Riot Report’ documentary details 1967 civil uprisings in Detroit and other major U.S. cities

In the summer of 1967, Detroit and several other major cities erupted in uprisings by Black residents protesting police brutality, racial injustice and social and economic disparities. The documentary “The Riot Report” looks at the work of the Kerner Commission, formally known as the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, which President Lyndon Johnson empaneled to investigate the cause of the civil uprisings that erupted, claiming 43 lives during that time.

The documentary airs on Detroit PBS Friday, July 26 at 8 p.m. It was directed by Michelle Ferrari, who also co-wrote and co-produced it with well-known author and journalist, Jelani Cobb. It features a trove of archival material on the commission and interviews with commission staffers, including its sole surviving member Senator Fred Harris. The commission’s final report in 1968 examined race relations in the U.S. and was highly controversial when it was released.

One Detroit contributor and “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson spoke with Cobb about the historic uprisings that took place 57 years ago and how they help us understand where we are as a country today. Plus, they discuss the social and political strife that occurred in the years and decades leading up to the uprisings and the messages to be taken away from “The Riot Report.” 

OPINION | Contributors discuss President Biden’s decision to drop out of presidential race 

OPINION |One Detroit contributors Nolan Finley, Editorial Page Editor of the Detroit News, and Stephen Henderson, host of “American Black Journal” weigh in on President Joe Biden’s decision to end his bid for a second term.

Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who is now seeking the Democratic presidential nomination. Finley and Henderson give their opinions on what’s ahead in the presidential race.

Detroit piano prodigy BLKBOK bridges classical and contemporary to create his unique sound

Born and raised in Detroit, Charles Wilson III, known professionally as BLKBOK, has carved a unique path in the music world. Identified as a piano prodigy by the age of eight, Wilson’s early accolades in statewide competitions showcased his talent. His professional name, BLKBOK, reflects a homage to renowned composer Johann Sebastian Bach, as well as his deep roots in pop and hip-hop culture. 

BLKBOK’s debut album, “Black Book,” was a breakout success, earning recognition from The New York Times as one of the “5 Classical Albums to Listen to Right Now.” This album established his innovative voice in the music industry, blending classical piano with contemporary influences. Collaborative works, such as “Angels Watching Over Me” with Lawrence Brownlee, further highlight his versatility and creative breadth. 

In a notable career milestone, BLKBOK’s original track “Stars (Ad Astra)” was the first piano duet performed from space, underscoring his commitment to pushing musical boundaries. His sophomore album, “9,” pays tribute to the Little Rock 9, exploring themes of disparity, equity, and Black excellence. 

BLKBOK talks with “American Black Journal” guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes about how he blends classical and contemporary music, the significance of his name, his parents’ influence, and Detroit’s impact on his career. 

One Detroit Weekend: July 26, 2024 

This weekend, there are chances to check out music and the arts at events such as the Sterlingfest Art & Music Fair in Sterling Heights and the Orchard Lake Fine Art Show in West Bloomfield. There are also outdoor activities like Kayaking Belle Isle and the Summer Beer Festival in Ypsilanti.

Plus, don’t miss the Arab & Chaldean Festival taking place in Detroit’s Hart Plaza. One Detroit contributor Dave Wagner of 90.9 WRCJ shares some events coming up this weekend and beyond for you to enjoy on “One Detroit Weekend.” 

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