My Truth About the Motor City

When I tell people I live in Detroit I usually brace myself for their response because more times than not it is not a positive one.

Well what brought you from Atlanta to Detroit? - They say

To which I respond the auto industry. Well technically the auto industry brought my husband to Detroit and he brought me, but that just minor details.

Is it really as bad as I see on the news? - They ask

To which I response yes. and no.

January 1, 2015 marked my 2 year anniversary of living in southeastern Michigan. In those 2 years I have learned so many things about life in metro Detroit. I have learned how to drive in the snow. I have learned about the delicacy that is Tim Horton's. I have learned how to navigate the Michigan left hand turns. I have learned that most people spend their summer weekends at a lake Up North. But more so than anything I have learned about the spirit that is Detroit. As commercials sometimes remind us, Detroit has been to hell and back and will forever be changed because of it.

I spent most of my time during the worst of the recession sheltered in a safe college bubble in Atlanta, GA. I remained mostly unaffected by the loss and despair that accompanied the rapidly increasing unemployment rate. I went to class. I studied. I worked hard and was rewarded for my efforts. But since moving up to Detroit I have witnessed first hand the aftermath of a city brought to it's knees. A city who had no choice but to humble itself as it hit absolute rock bottom. A city who exposed it's imperfections to the world and now must slowly pick of the pieces of a shattered reputation.

Since filing for bankruptcy in March of 2013 Detroit leaders have taken significant steps towards acknowledging and finding solutions for the cities massive debt and crippling city services. Both public and private sectors have come together and started investing in the rebirth of this historic city. There are new restaurants, entertainment hot spots, rail lines to improve public transit, and a sports district to house the new Red Wings hockey arena. All of these changes are breathing fresh new life into a city that has remained stagnant for so long.

This past week President Obama was in town visiting a Ford plant and he discussed the resurgence of the auto industry which is the heart and soul of Detroit's economy. When speaking at Wayne Assembly Plant President Obama said "One thing is for sure. We may not all root for the Lions, but America is rooting for Detroit. We want the Motor City strong. And behind the stories of plants and cities and economic data it’s people. It’s all of you."

Regardless of your political beliefs I think the point he made is so important to remember. Behind all the pictures of abandoned buildings are people living in their shadows. Real. Life. People. Growing up I never in a million years thought I would be living in Detroit working for an auto company. But now I am one of those people. Jameson has such a passion for the revival of the American auto industry and the city that founded it, and I could not me more proud to stand by his side as we watch Detroit grow and evolve. I have learned to respect and appreciate the resilience of this city. I have learned to look for the good. To see the opportunity and light even when it might be covered by some dust.

Below are just a few of the unique local shops, people, and places Detroit has to offer. I know I am just one person and I cannot change the image and reputation of an entire city, but Detroit is now my home and I desire for others to see it in the same light I do. I may curse it from time to time when the snow is to my knees but nevertheless Jameson and I love exploring Detroit and making this place truly our home!

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