a Debt Owed Not a Handout, Detroiters in Reparations Black History Month

Detroit’s Legacy in the Fight for Reparations

🖤 "This is not a handout—it’s a debt owed." – Reparations Ray Jenkins

Detroit has played a pivotal role in the national reparations movement, and this Black History Month, we invite you to explore this history through a powerful video essay screening series. This film, produced by Khary Frazier and executive produced by Detroit is Different, is an immersive, thought-provoking experience that brings together historical footage, interviews, music, and animations to highlight the unwavering fight for reparations and justice led by Detroiters.

This video essay is more than just a film—it’s a historical record, a tribute, and a call to action. Reparations is often framed as a fringe issue, but this documentary demonstrates how Detroit has been at the forefront of this fight for decades. Through firsthand accounts and archival footage, the film brings history to life and shows that the movement is not just about the past, but also about the present and future.

📍 Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) Eastern Campus
📆 Friday, February 28, 2025
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 5901 Conner St, Detroit, MI 48213

The documentary breaks down the historical and economic rationale for reparations. John Conyers’ HR 40 bill, the activism of Reparations Ray Jenkins, and the grassroots push in Detroit all serve as examples of how this fight has persisted despite resistance.

💬 "The Japanese got reparations. Jewish people got reparations. Why not us?" – Reparations Ray Jenkins

The film shines a light on figures who are rarely mentioned in mainstream narratives. While names like Rosa Parks and Betty Shabazz are well-known, Reparations Ray Jenkins, Gaidi Obadele, Chokwe Lumumba, and JoAnn Watson also played critical roles in shaping policy and organizing movements.

💬 "Wake up, Detroit! Wake up, Detroit! Every day, every day, one topic: Reparations! It ain’t a handout—it’s a debt owed." – Reparations Ray Jenkins

This isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a visually and sonically rich experience. The film blends:
🎥 Dynamic Editing & Cinematography – Archival footage, powerful speeches, and street-level activism.
🎨 Animation & Sampling – Bringing key historical moments to life in new ways.
🎵 Music by Detroit Artists – Featuring Khary WAE Frazier, Joe Black, Ian Sherman, Nick Speed, and Sterling Toles, the score embodies the soul and rhythm of Detroit activism.

💬 "Our ancestors worked, fought, and died for this. We must carry on that fight." – The Honorable Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson

This screening series is more than entertainment—it’s an opportunity to:
✅ Educate yourself on Detroit’s role in the reparations movement.
✅ Engage in meaningful discussions with community members and activists.
✅ Honor the work of those who came before us and be inspired to continue their fight.
✅ Connect with a community of like-minded individuals who believe in justice and equity.

💬 "They put signs up honoring the enslavers. We put signs up honoring our freedom fighters." – Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson

We extend a special thank you to all participants who contributed their voices, knowledge, and expertise:

• Kwazi Akwamu
• Mike Anderson
• Omari Barksdale
• Ken Coleman
• John Conyers III
• Dr. Monica Conyers
• Janis Hazel
• Ricardo Jenkins
• Jamon Jordan
• Cecily McClellan
• Judge Deborah Thomas

This groundbreaking video essay offers a compelling, Detroit-centered perspective on the reparations movement. Come watch, learn, and be inspired to take action.

🔥 Join us as we honor the past, engage in the present, and fight for the future. 🔥

Host or Publisher Detroit is Different