Letter from the Editor

A Response to Detroit News Editor Nolan Finley and his Notion of Gentrification and Race in the City

It seems some people won’t be happy no matter what happens in the city. Last month, Detroit News columnist/ editor, Nolan Finley asked “Where are the black people?” in a piece that questioned why black diners were not proportionately represented in booths of the latest slew of bar/restaurant openings; a question that ignited more talk over race and perceived ownership of the city. So, with respect to people of all color (because, we’re not only black and white), I humbly put forth the following:

Like it or not, no one color is entitled to ownership of the city. In a free society, the city is open to men and women of all color. One does not have to live in the city to enjoy it. One does not have to live in the city to work in the city. One does not have to seek permission to explore the city. And, if one should happen to open a business in the city, it is not incumbent upon that person to specifically market to any one group of people. If a business opens its doors, respectfully; and explains what it is, honestly; while promoting its product or service with a little integrity; it will then receive exactly the sort of client base that wishes to support it.

Now, Mr. Finley does make some points – And, I understand that he comes from a place of good intention – but he also misses a few. For example: Why presume black people are even interested in the offerings of the establishments Mr. Nolan is frequenting? Not all of us have the same taste. We do not all share the same aesthetic. We do not all share the same values, or respond the same way to the varied food, cocktails or entertainments that are available in the city.

And if I may: I have absolutely no affiliation with Mr. Dave Kwiatkowski – owner of Sugar House and partner in Wright & Co. – but I see Detroit News found it acceptable to place an image of Sugar House on its website to accompany the musings of Mr. Finley – the inference being that Sugar House is only serving white people; and it concerns me. Frivolous accusations are divisive and actually diminish the argument regarding racism in this country. Sugar House – as with Corktown and Detroit itself – is open to ALL who wish to enter.

The funny thing in all of this is that I didn’t hear much about black owned bars and restaurants that are currently open for business, which is far more productive. So, for those interested we have, respectfully, compiled a short list of black owned establishments in this month’s TOUR d’Etroit. Enjoy!

Be well ~ seek culture,

Anthony Brancaleone