Michigan Families for Fair Care Holds Barbershop Town Hall To Discuss The Economic Issues Facing Black Men In Michigan

On Monday, Michigan Families for Fair Care, State Representative Donavan McKinney, State Representative Tyrone Carter, and Warren community leader, Michael Howard, held their first Cuts and Conversation, a barbershop town hall to discuss the socio-economic issues and challenges that impact Black men in Michigan.  

The advocacy organization, gathered a group of community members across the area to discuss the issues and what community leaders and elected officials can and should be doing to help them. 

The event included discussion of economic inequality, health care costs, and the need for state and federal programs to invest in Black-owned businesses.

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Michigan Families for Fair Care Regional Organizing Director, DeVon Dunham:

“After reading a recent article about how the economy is a priority for Black men in Michigan, we knew we had to make space where we, as Black men, could have a candid conversation about this issue. And what better way to do it than in a barber shop! We wanted yesterday’s event to capture the importance of connecting with the community and having frank conversations about important issues like the economy. We know time and time again that specific economic issues like high costs of rent, food, and health care can disproportionately impact communities that look like mine. Michigan Families for Fair Care wants to ensure that we are making space for those often left out of the conversation and educating them on how they can impact their communities as well.”  

State Representative Tyrone Carter:

“Black businesses have been historically overlooked for investment by both the federal and state government. Michigan is home to over 54,000 Black-owned businesses – we shape a large portion of the economic landscape of this state. With legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, we are taking strides to address this systemic economic inequality. Black business owners can succeed when they get a fair shot from their government.”   

Thanks to legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, there have been beneficial strides to support Black business owners in the United States. Since its passing it has created more than 330,000 jobs  and has helped create new economic opportunities including for Black-owned businesses, and made long overdue investments in Black communities. 

State Representative Donavan McKinney:

“A new era of hope is dawning on our economy after repeated trials and tribulations. Progress is being made in all areas. Just look at the uninsured rate for Black Americans, it has fallen to its lowest rate ever, and the Affordable Care Act tax credits have brought monthly premiums down for Black families across the country. Other costs remain high, and businesses in our community are still looking for additional lifelines. Success for our community means success for all Michiganders. Our goals won’t be accomplished without first giving people a platform to voice their concerns and confronting them together.”