Recap: Black Leaders Brunch - Envisioning a Brighter Future for Lansing's Black Community

The recent Black Leaders Brunch was a powerful gathering that brought together Black leaders from across the Lansing region and various professional sectors. The event was an opportunity for these leaders to share their positive thoughts and ideas about what they would like to see in the Black community and how they can contribute to its growth and prosperity.

Key Themes and Feedback

Healing and Well-being

• Healing: Leaders expressed a desire to help others heal from tragic losses, particularly the loss of a child.

• Belonging: The importance of feeling beloved and belonging in the community was emphasized.

• Mental Health: Prioritizing mental stability, forgiveness, and psychological safety was a recurring theme.

• Physical Health: Nutrition, physical activity for body health, and stress release were highlighted.

Empowerment and Leadership

• Voice for the Voiceless: Being a voice for those who are unheard was a significant concern.

• Community Building: Empowering and revitalizing health and wealth through community building was a shared goal.

• Youth Involvement: Centering youth involvement in community efforts and leadership was emphasized.

Values and Advocacy

• Community: The importance of community, commitment, advocacy, truth, and safety were strongly emphasized.

• Justice: The heart of justice is love, and values like safety and being valued were highlighted.

Resources and Support

• Mentorship: There was a call for more mentorship, particularly towards life skills for young women.

• Financial Literacy: Emphasizing financial literacy and education access was crucial.

• Resources: Additional resources for young, challenged men, support for single parents, and funding were identified as essential needs.

Education and Training

• Life Skills: Mentorship towards life skills, critical thinking, communication skills, and emotional intelligence were highlighted.

• Education Access: Ensuring education access and mental health education were seen as vital.

Economics and Infrastructure

• Employment: Employment opportunities, financial security, better-paying jobs, and Black commercial development were priorities.

• Infrastructure: The need for infrastructure improvements like the Malcolm X Memorial Learning Center, clean green spaces, and updated homes was emphasized.

Actions and Initiatives

• Gun Violence: Addressing and reducing gun violence was identified as a pressing concern.

• Community Events: Initiatives like Black Boy Day of Joy and elevating stories to inspire were suggested.

Conclusion

The Black Leaders Brunch was a thought-provoking and inspiring event that showcased the passion, commitment, and vision of Black leaders in the Lansing region. The feedback received will serve as a valuable roadmap for creating meaningful change, fostering community growth, and advancing the well-being and prosperity of Lansing's Black community.

As we move forward, let's continue to listen, collaborate, and take action to turn these ideas into reality and build a brighter future for all.