Justice and Sustainability Associates, LLC

Detroit’s population is growing for the first time since the 1950s, symbolizing a shift in perception and a positive future. From the Michigan Central Station reopening to the Detroit City Football Club’s new stadium plans, the city is on the rise. As cities like Detroit experience population growth, it becomes crucial to establish platforms for neighbors and community members to engage in constructive dialogues. By fostering these opportunities, individuals can address and overcome cultural differences, thus promoting inclusivity and a sense of belonging for all residents. Encouraging open discussions and collaboration among diverse community members is essential in creating a harmonious environment where everyone feels valued and respected. By providing avenues for dialogue, cities can facilitate understanding, empathy, and unity among individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Promoting communication and understanding among neighbors and community members is key to building a cohesive and welcoming environment in growing cities like Detroit. Embracing diversity and fostering inclusive practices will not only strengthen community bonds but also create a sense of belonging for all residents, ensuring a thriving and harmonious urban landscape. Ensuring inclusive growth and maintaining Detroit’s identity remains essential. Read more in this NPR article.   https://lnkd.in/gxxQDN8H

Respecting every individual regardless of their position is a fundamental principle that fosters a positive work environment. Acknowledging the janitor with the same level of respect as the CEO promotes equality and inclusivity within the workplace. This simple gesture can create a sense of unity and mutual respect among colleagues, regardless of their roles or titles. While competence is crucial in any role, compassion plays an equally important role in creating a harmonious work environment. A compassionate individual can positively impact team dynamics, morale, and overall productivity. It is essential to value both competence and compassion in individuals to cultivate a balanced and supportive workplace culture. In conclusion, treating everyone with respect and recognizing the importance of compassion and competence in individuals can significantly contribute to a cohesive and thriving work environment. Embracing these values can lead to improved relationships, enhanced teamwork, and a more inclusive workplace where every individual feels valued and appreciated.

Race is a social construct invented by Europeans during the 1400/1500's to establish white superiority and maintain power. This classification system aimed to elevate white people as the highest level of humanity, perpetuating privilege and control over others. Power refers to the collective and legitimate access to systems and institutions sanctioned by the state. It plays a crucial role in reinforcing racial hierarchies and perpetuating inequalities within society. Scholars like Kimberly Richards, PhD, have delved into the fallacy of race through works such as "Medical Apartheid," "The Fallacy of Race," and "White by Law." Documentaries like "Race: The Power of an Illusion" and "Unnatural Cause" further explore the impact of race on society, shedding light on the historical context and implications of racial classification.

Today, we commemorate the day enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom. Juneteenth, recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, holds deep significance for many families in Galveston, where the holiday originated. Celebrations have been a tradition for generations. As we honor this moment in our history, let us remember it as an important milestone in our ongoing quest for justice and equality. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay

In her insightful analysis, Deborah Tannen sheds light on the misconception that there exists a singular correct method for listening, speaking, conversing, or nurturing relationships. Tannen challenges the notion that a one-size-fits-all approach is applicable in communication dynamics. She emphasizes the diversity and complexity of human interaction, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of how individuals engage with one another. By debunking the myth of a universal formula for effective communication, Tannen encourages individuals to embrace the richness of diverse communication styles. She underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting the unique ways in which people express themselves and connect with others. Tannen's perspective highlights the need for flexibility and empathy in navigating the intricacies of human relationships. Ultimately, Tannen's work serves as a reminder that successful communication and relationships are not bound by rigid rules or predetermined scripts. Instead, she champions the idea that authenticity, mutual understanding, and active listening are key components in fostering meaningful connections. Tannen's insights prompt a reevaluation of conventional wisdom, urging individuals to approach communication with an open mind and a willingness to engage with others on their own terms.

What is the difference between planning for tomorrow and worrying about tomorrow. Planning for tomorrow involves setting goals, making to-do lists, and organizing tasks in advance. It focuses on taking proactive steps to ensure a smooth and productive day ahead. Planning allows individuals to prioritize tasks, allocate time efficiently, and anticipate potential challenges. On the other hand, worrying about tomorrow involves excessive concern and fear about what might happen in the future. It often leads to negative thoughts and anxiety, which can be detrimental to one's mental well-being. Worrying about tomorrow does not involve constructive actions or problem-solving; instead, it dwells on uncertainties and worst-case scenarios. In summary, the key difference between planning for tomorrow and worrying about tomorrow lies in the approach taken towards the future. Planning is proactive, goal-oriented, and focused on productivity, while worrying is reactive, fear-based, and can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety.

In a quote by John W. Gardner, the importance of honoring excellence in all human activities is highlighted. Gardner emphasizes the significance of valuing excellence in even the most humble tasks and the need to reject mediocrity in any field. He argues that a skilled plumber deserves more respect than an inept philosopher, suggesting that societal attitudes towards different professions impact the overall quality of work in a community. Gardner's assertion that a society which disregards excellence in practical trades while accepting substandard work in intellectual pursuits will suffer from both poor craftsmanship and flawed ideologies is thought-provoking. He warns against the consequences of overlooking the value of expertise in everyday tasks and the dangers of prioritizing status over skill. By drawing a parallel between the quality of plumbing and philosophy, Gardner underscores the interconnectedness of different disciplines and the impact of societal attitudes on their development. Ultimately, Gardner's message serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding standards of excellence across all professions. Whether it is in the meticulous work of a plumber or the profound insights of a philosopher, recognizing and celebrating excellence in every socially accepted human activity is crucial for the advancement of society as a whole. By valuing competence and proficiency in all endeavors, we can strive towards a community where both practical skills and intellectual pursuits are held in high regard.

Last night, Justice and Sustainability Associates’ Co-Founder and Board Chair, Don Edwards, spoke on the NCPC’s 100th-anniversary panel, celebrating a century of urban planning. Urban planning continues to play a vital role in shaping our cities, influencing both their physical and social landscapes. As such, it is essential to acknowledge that urban planning has historically contributed to environmental racism and social inequalities. Policies such as the FHA’s 1930s redlining labeled Black neighborhoods as “hazardous,” limiting residents’ access to mortgages and credit. Additionally, mid-20th century urban renewal projects often displaced Black communities to make way for commercial developments. Environmental racism persists today as zoning laws and land-use policies disproportionately expose Black communities to pollution and other hazards. (Rothstein, 2017) To address the historical injustices and ongoing disparities faced by black communities, urban planners must adopt a more nuanced and inclusive approach that prioritizes consensus building, community engagement, equity, and social justice. #UrbanPlanning #EnvironmentalRacism #SocialJustice #CommunityEngagement #EquityInCities Source: Rothstein, R. (2017). The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America. Liveright Publishing.

Far too often I am wrong in my predictions or assumptions, but when it truly matters, I am rarely mistaken. This ability to be accurate when it counts has proven to be a valuable asset in decision-making and problem-solving scenarios. It instills confidence in others and allows for more effective outcomes in critical situations. When my predictions or judgments turn out to be correct, the sense of accomplishment and validation is truly remarkable. Witnessing the realization of my foresight or insight is not only satisfying but also serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and analysis. It reinforces the notion that thorough evaluation and consideration can lead to successful outcomes. The moments when I am undeniably right about a situation or outcome are indeed awe-inspiring. It showcases the power of knowledge, experience, and intuition coming together in perfect harmony. These instances serve as a testament to the value of being meticulous and diligent in gathering information and drawing conclusions based on facts and evidence.