Detroit has made distinct contributions to the development of contemporary African American religious expressions. It is the birthplace of both the Nation of Islam and Pan-African Orthodox Christianity (originally a Black Nationalist Christian sect). In addition, contemporary Black Liberation Theologies were sermonized and written in the city and at nearby Adrian College. Furthermore, Detroit has been one of the prominent North American homes of Spiritualist movements which allowed African American women a place for public leadership as well as enterprise. Then there are the extraordinary contributions of African American religious leadership to social justice including organized labor development.
Conduct research to write a 2-3 page paper on one component of this history. Specifically, students will write a paper that develops this theme:
During the twentieth century, Detroit held a unique place among northern Great Migration urban centers. Its industrial base helped to create the U.S. middle class, and the city and the region were the home of organized labor. In your paper, select a key figure(s), an organization, an institution or a social or cultural component that help to make an argument about the unique way that the synthesis of Detroit’s race, class, and economic opportunity contribute to its becoming a home for innovative black religious expression.
Sample Solution