Wayne County honors former Detroit mayor Mike Duggan and hosts Detroit School of the Arts Black History Month program

The Wayne County Commission used its February floor meeting to honor Michael E. Duggan for his public service and to host a Black History Month program featuring students from the Detroit School of the Arts.

Madam Chair invited County Executive Warren Evans and a group of commissioners to present a resolution recognizing Duggan’s achievements as Detroit’s 70th mayor and for prior county service. "Nobody can take away what the city of Detroit looks like now from what the city looked like 13 years ago," County Executive Warren Evans said in praise of Duggan’s efforts to reduce blight and expand services. The resolution was moved by Commissioner Kinloch, supported by Commissioner Anderson, and approved by voice vote.

Following the ceremonial resolution, Commissioner Peterson Mayberry led the commission's Black History Month program and introduced performers from the Detroit School of the Arts. Dr. Myowa Lisa Reynolds, principal of Detroit School of the Arts, opened the program with a traditional pouring of libations and discussed the school's seven majors and cultural heritage. Students performed "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and student poet Janiyah Buckley read an original poem titled "The Normalities of a Black America." Commissioners presented certificates to the students and the school.

Madam Chair later moved a resolution recognizing African American contributions during Black History Month; the commission opened the floor for cosponsors and approved the resolution by voice vote. Commissioners said the program showcased student talent and reiterated the county's commitment to educational partnerships.

Both the honorary resolution for Michael E. Duggan and the Black History Month recognition were passed by voice vote on the floor; no roll-call tallies were recorded in the meeting transcript.