Detroit’s Social Justice & Creative Events

Discover the powerful events driving positive change in Detroit's social justice and creative communities. From art shows to community actions, LoveList brings these impactful gatherings into focus.

View the list of upcoming events below or submit your own to be featured!

Upcoming Events

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The LOVE List seeks to aggregate events connected to social justice and creative community in the Detroit. Submit your event to be featured below!

All submissions sent after the deadline will appear in the following week’s listing. *DEADLINE TO SUBMIT TO THE WEEKLY LOVE LIST IS EVERY TUESDAY AT 11:59PM*

WHOLE SELF: Radical Care, Collective Healing, Rooted in Love. 6-Week Summer Wellness Series
Jul
21
to Aug 28

WHOLE SELF: Radical Care, Collective Healing, Rooted in Love. 6-Week Summer Wellness Series

Join us for a powerful 6-week wellness series designed to nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Hosted by local healers, movement leaders, and wellness practitioners, each session offers tools to help you reconnect with yourself, build healthy habits, and cultivate joy.

Hosted By:
Demarra West – Whole Self Healing
Agatha Gordon – Zumba Detroit
Nezza Bandele – Paradise Natural Foods

Dates: Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays | July 21, 2025 – August 28, 2025

Location: The LOVE Building, 4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208

This is more than a drop-in series — it’s a transformational journey. We encourage you to attend all 6 weeks to fully experience the growth, connection, and healing each session builds upon.

View the full 6-week schedule below and RSVP for your preferred sessions.

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BBBS Financial Literacy Series: Debt Reduction
Jul
29

BBBS Financial Literacy Series: Debt Reduction

Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan for the final session in our Financial Literacy Series: Debt Reduction on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:15 PM at The LOVE Building, Room 309, 4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208. Guest speaker Krystal Middleton of Talk Money With Mel will lead this powerful workshop focused on strategies to reduce and eliminate debt, build realistic payoff plans, and take control of your financial future. Don’t miss this empowering and practical session!

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Sidewalk Festival
Aug
2

Sidewalk Festival

Join us for Sidewalk Festival on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 2:00 to 8:00 PM at Eliza Howell Park, 23701 Fenkell, Detroit, MI 48219. From August 1–2, the fields and forest paths of Eliza Howell Park will be transformed by a powerful group of artists whose practices explore ancestry, land, rhythm, resistance, and collective healing.

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Behind the Brand
Aug
7

Behind the Brand

  • 11693 Whitcomb Detroit, MI, 48227 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for Behind the Brand on Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 11693 Whitcomb, Detroit, MI 48227, United States. A dynamic panel and mixer event powered by the Detroit Pistons, celebrating creative culture, entrepreneurship, and authenticity through conversation, music, and community connection.

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Family Fun Day
Aug
10

Family Fun Day

  • Independence Oaks County Park, Twin Chimneys Picnic Area (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Citizens for Prison Reform for our 2nd Annual Family Fun Day on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM at Independence Oaks County Park – Twin Chimneys Picnic Area, 9501 Sashabaw Rd, Clarkston, MI 48348. This special afternoon brings together families impacted by incarceration for a day of games, activities for all ages, a family BBQ, and meaningful connection. Celebrate community, joy, and support in a beautiful outdoor setting!

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Behind the Brand: Grief & Growth
Nov
15

Behind the Brand: Grief & Growth

Join us for Behind the Brand: Grief & Growth on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The LOVE Building (4731 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, MI 48208, United States). This intimate, healing-centered panel features Detroit creatives sharing powerful stories of grief, loss, and personal growth—fostering reflection, connection, and community restoration.

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The Wind Remembers: Works by Babar Ahmad
Jul
26

The Wind Remembers: Works by Babar Ahmad

Join us for The Wind Remembers: Works by Babar Ahmad on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at The Congregation (9321 Rosa Parks, Detroit, MI 48206, United States). This solo exhibition, curated by Dr. Chanel Beebe, features the evocative work of Babar Ahmad and explores memory, motion, and spiritual presence through layered textures and architectural echoes. The full show will be on view July 1–27, 2025, during regular café hours. Come meet the artist, enjoy light refreshments, and experience the work in community. Free and open to the public; RSVP encouraged.

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Detroit Disability Pride Cookout
Jul
25

Detroit Disability Pride Cookout

Join us for Detroit Disability Pride Cookout on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at The LOVE Building (4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208, United States). In celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act being signed 35 years ago in 2025, this is a low-spoons space to celebrate, connect, and recharge with good food, vibes, and community.

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DanceAbility on the Riverwalk
Jul
23

DanceAbility on the Riverwalk

Join DanceAbility on the Riverwalk for a vibrant movement improvisation workshop on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Cullen Plaza, 1340 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207 (Shed at Valade Park if it's too hot or raining). With guest musician Maghan Sowandé Keïta, this welcoming session invites disabled Detroiters, caregivers, allies, and creatives to explore movement, connection, and joy. Free admission – donations welcome. RSVP to share accommodation needs or request a ride!

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The People's Salon
Jul
22

The People's Salon

Join us for The People’s Salon, a recurring drop-in space to think out loud, process current events, and wrestle with ideas in conversation with others—welcome to all. Happening on the second and fourth Tuesdays in June and JulyJune 10, June 24, July 8, and July 22, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at The Congregation, located at 9821 Rosa Parks Blvd., Detroit, MI 48206.

Throughout history, informal gatherings—salons, study circles, and kitchen-table conversations—have been spaces where political ideas take shape. In a world that often pushes us toward isolation or certainty, this space invites open-ended discussion, curiosity, and the opportunity to think through ideas together—shaped by whoever shows up.

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MPR - Matrix Poetry Residency Workshop with Tawana "Honeycomb" Petty
Jul
20

MPR - Matrix Poetry Residency Workshop with Tawana "Honeycomb" Petty

Join us for MPR - Matrix Poetry Residency Workshop with Tawana "Honeycomb" Petty on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM at Matrix Theater (2730 Bagley, Detroit, MI 48216, United States). Part of the 5-5-5 series — 5 poets, 5 workshops, 5 features, and 1 Poetry Showcase — this session features Tawana "Honeycomb" Petty taking us to school! Attend July's workshop and get free entry to her feature on August 17, 2025.

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Detroit Festival of Books
Jul
20

Detroit Festival of Books

Join us for Detroit Festival of Books on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Eastern Market (2810 Russell St., Detroit, MI 48207, United States). Youth artists will share book-related crafts and coloring as Mint Artists Guild sells coloring books, handmade bookmarks and more during the Detroit Festival of Books.

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DNA Presents Filmmaking Workshop Series
Jul
19

DNA Presents Filmmaking Workshop Series

Join us for DNA Presents Filmmaking Workshop Series on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 12:00 to 5:00 PM at The LOVE Building, 4731 Grand River, Detroit, MI 48208. This immersive series features hands-on workshops including Creating a Pitch Deck for Film, Intro to Screenwriting, and Intro to Producing. Whether you're just starting or building your skills, this is your chance to learn from experienced filmmakers and sharpen your creative edge. Apply by May 30th to secure your spot!

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Expungement Fair
Jul
19

Expungement Fair

Join us for the Expungement Fair on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the LOVE Building, located at 4731 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48208. This event provides free legal assistance to help you clear your record and create a brighter future.

Don’t miss out on this chance to speak with legal professionals and learn how to take the steps toward an expunged record.

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For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf
Jul
13

For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf

Join us for For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at The Matrix Theatre (2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216) on July 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, and 13, 2025, with performances from 8:00 to 10:00 PM.

Written by Ntozake Shange and directed by CJ Williams, this groundbreaking choreopoem—only the second play by a Black woman to reach Broadway—follows the lives of seven women of color as they share powerful stories of identity, love, loss, and resilience. Through poetry, dance, and music, the performance honors the strength of sisterhood in the face of oppression.

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Your Crown Shines
Jul
13

Your Crown Shines

This is one of many appearances i’ll be making to celebrate the release of my first children’s book, Your Crown Shines, at home!!
I’ll be announcing my city wide public art & literacy project, they’ll be crafts, crowns, cupcakes, and fun!!!

Music Selector @heykingmoor

Come get your book signed!!!

All Ages welcome!!!

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For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf
Jul
12

For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf

Join us for For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at The Matrix Theatre (2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216) on July 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, and 13, 2025, with performances from 8:00 to 10:00 PM.

Written by Ntozake Shange and directed by CJ Williams, this groundbreaking choreopoem—only the second play by a Black woman to reach Broadway—follows the lives of seven women of color as they share powerful stories of identity, love, loss, and resilience. Through poetry, dance, and music, the performance honors the strength of sisterhood in the face of oppression.

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Day Retreat
Jul
12

Day Retreat

Join us for the Day Retreat on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM at Mama Akua Community House, located at 2431 Ferry Park St, Detroit, MI 48208. In celebration of BIPOC Mental Health Month, this all-inclusive day retreat is designed to help you rest, recharge, and deepen your self-care practices through powerful individual and collective healing.

Open to all BIPOC men, women, and nonbinary individuals, the retreat offers an opportunity for reflection, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Full needs-based scholarships are available for Detroit community members.

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Beyond Disaster Book Launch
Jul
11

Beyond Disaster Book Launch

Join us for the Beyond Disaster Book Launch on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The LOVE Building (4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, United States). Celebrate the launch of Melissa Rosario's new book and engage with the community. Melissa will be present to discuss the book and will have copies available for purchase.

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LOVE@Nite: CONTAINER Takeover official afterparty at UFO Bar
Jul
10
to Jul 11

LOVE@Nite: CONTAINER Takeover official afterparty at UFO Bar

🚨 OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY 🚨

After we light up Spirit Plaza for the Love@Nite: CONTAINER Takeover, we’re sliding straight to FREAQUENCY — the official afterparty at UFO Bar.

Featuring a stacked lineup of Love@Nite alumni: @completd, @stardustsounds, and @iamfullbodydurag — all known for keeping the vibes high and the dance floors full.

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For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf
Jul
10

For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf

Join us for For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at The Matrix Theatre (2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216) on July 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, and 13, 2025, with performances from 8:00 to 10:00 PM.

Written by Ntozake Shange and directed by CJ Williams, this groundbreaking choreopoem—only the second play by a Black woman to reach Broadway—follows the lives of seven women of color as they share powerful stories of identity, love, loss, and resilience. Through poetry, dance, and music, the performance honors the strength of sisterhood in the face of oppression.

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Social Media Marketing Masterclass
Jul
10

Social Media Marketing Masterclass

Join us for Social Media Marketing Masterclass on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at BUILD Institute (1620 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216, United States). This masterclass will help entrepreneurs understand the fundamentals of social media and how to effectively market their small businesses across various platforms. Part 2 of a 3-part marketing series, it is facilitated by Lawrielle West, experienced entrepreneur and marketing guru.

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Final LOVE@Nite: The CONTAINER Takeover @ Spirit Plaza
Jul
10

Final LOVE@Nite: The CONTAINER Takeover @ Spirit Plaza

Join us for the fourth and final LOVE@Nite: CONTAINER Takeover, a night dedicated to showcasing all 12 artists in the 2025 CONTAINER cohort and celebrating Detroit’s unmatched creative talent.

CONTAINER is a homegrown creative platform that nurtures and spotlights Detroit-based artists across music, food, fashion, and visual art. Through performances, mentorship, and a citywide tour this fall, CONTAINER gives local creatives the tools and visibility to grow without needing to leave the city.

LOVE@Nite is The LOVE Building’s signature creative showcase, and this special edition, the CONTAINER Takeover, brings together every artist from this year’s series. That’s right, all 12 creatives will be featured in one powerful night of live music, culinary tastings, immersive art, and fashion-forward energy, all rooted right here in Detroit.

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The People's Salon
Jul
8

The People's Salon

Join us for The People’s Salon, a recurring drop-in space to think out loud, process current events, and wrestle with ideas in conversation with others—welcome to all. Happening on the second and fourth Tuesdays in June and JulyJune 10, June 24, July 8, and July 22, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at The Congregation, located at 9821 Rosa Parks Blvd., Detroit, MI 48206.

Throughout history, informal gatherings—salons, study circles, and kitchen-table conversations—have been spaces where political ideas take shape. In a world that often pushes us toward isolation or certainty, this space invites open-ended discussion, curiosity, and the opportunity to think through ideas together—shaped by whoever shows up.

View Event →
For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf
Jul
6

For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf

Join us for For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at The Matrix Theatre (2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216) on July 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, and 13, 2025, with performances from 8:00 to 10:00 PM.

Written by Ntozake Shange and directed by CJ Williams, this groundbreaking choreopoem—only the second play by a Black woman to reach Broadway—follows the lives of seven women of color as they share powerful stories of identity, love, loss, and resilience. Through poetry, dance, and music, the performance honors the strength of sisterhood in the face of oppression.

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Biking for BOBs
Jul
6

Biking for BOBs

  • Meet at Bert’s on Russell then Bike to Sugah Please (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for Biking for BOBs on Sunday, July 6, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM, starting at Bert’s on Russell and biking to Sugah Please (2727 Russell, Detroit, MI 48207, United States). Enjoy a community ride and pop-up Open Mic at Sugah Please. Deets on invite and flyer. In the event of rain, we will still meet at 3:00 PM at Sugah Please for brunch and open mic to show love to their BOB.

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For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf
Jul
5

For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf

Join us for For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at The Matrix Theatre (2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216) on July 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, and 13, 2025, with performances from 8:00 to 10:00 PM.

Written by Ntozake Shange and directed by CJ Williams, this groundbreaking choreopoem—only the second play by a Black woman to reach Broadway—follows the lives of seven women of color as they share powerful stories of identity, love, loss, and resilience. Through poetry, dance, and music, the performance honors the strength of sisterhood in the face of oppression.

View Event →
For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf
Jul
3

For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf

Join us for For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at The Matrix Theatre (2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216) on July 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, and 13, 2025, with performances from 8:00 to 10:00 PM.

Written by Ntozake Shange and directed by CJ Williams, this groundbreaking choreopoem—only the second play by a Black woman to reach Broadway—follows the lives of seven women of color as they share powerful stories of identity, love, loss, and resilience. Through poetry, dance, and music, the performance honors the strength of sisterhood in the face of oppression.

View Event →
Durracell LIVE with band
Jun
28

Durracell LIVE with band

Join us for Durracell LIVE with band on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Casablanca Dry (6366 Gratiot, Detroit, MI 48207, United States). Doors at 6:30 PM | Show starts at 7:00 PM. Get charged up for Durracell LIVE w/ the Band at Casablanca Dry! This isn’t just another gig—it’s a high-energy performance packed with pop, alternative, originals, and your favorite covers. If you thought I brought the energy solo, just wait ‘til you hear the full band!

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UpliftUs Detroit Chapter Meet & Greet
Jun
28

UpliftUs Detroit Chapter Meet & Greet

Join us for the UpliftUs Detroit Chapter Meet & Greet on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at Ella Fitzgerald Park (16625 Prairie St, Detroit, MI 48221). Come connect with fellow UpliftUs members, engage with neighbors, and learn more about how we're building a stronger, more connected community right here in Detroit. All are welcome—bring your questions, your curiosity, and your community spirit!

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Ballroom and Hustle Classes
Jun
28

Ballroom and Hustle Classes

Join us for Ballroom and Hustle Classes on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Casablanca Dry (6366 Gratiot, Detroit, MI 48207, United States). Hustle Lessons from 2 PM – 3 PM and Ballroom Lessons from 3 PM – 4 PM. Two lessons for $10. Learn from the best instructors in the city. No experience required, and don't worry if you don't have a dance partner. Come and enjoy this fun class, where everyone walks away feeling more confident on the dance floor. Parking is free on Gratiot or Meldrum. Mocktails and snacks available for purchase.

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Clark Park Culture and Arts Festival
Jun
28

Clark Park Culture and Arts Festival

Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Southwest Detroit at the Clark Park Culture and Arts Festival, an interactive afternoon of music, dance, and creativity featuring performers from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, local artists, and talented youth from the community. Enjoy hands-on arts activities, live entertainment, and connect with organizations like the Detroit Community Technology Project.

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Summer Reading Celebration
Jun
28

Summer Reading Celebration

Join us for Summer Reading Celebration on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Detroit Rosa (19180 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48223, United States). Open Heart Community Services is hosting a book drive to collect new and gently used books for underserved youth in our community, promoting literacy, empowerment, and access to education.

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Expungement Fair
Jun
28

Expungement Fair

Join us for the Expungement Fair on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the LOVE Building, located at 4731 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48208. This event offers free legal assistance to help you clear your record and move forward with confidence.

If you or someone you know may qualify for expungement, don’t miss this opportunity to speak with legal professionals and start the process toward a fresh start.

Open to all – support, empowerment, and second chances start here.

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Ritualized Ink Making with Cyrah Dardas
Jun
25

Ritualized Ink Making with Cyrah Dardas

Connect with the rhythms of the earth at Ritualized Ink Making with Cyrah Dardas, a seasonal, participatory ceremony aligned with the first new moon of summer. Through communal craft and earth-based ritual, participants will explore traditional ink-making while deepening their relationship to natural materials and creative transformation.

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The People's Salon
Jun
24

The People's Salon

Join us for The People’s Salon, a recurring drop-in space to think out loud, process current events, and wrestle with ideas in conversation with others—welcome to all. Happening on the second and fourth Tuesdays in June and JulyJune 10, June 24, July 8, and July 22, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at The Congregation, located at 9821 Rosa Parks Blvd., Detroit, MI 48206.

Throughout history, informal gatherings—salons, study circles, and kitchen-table conversations—have been spaces where political ideas take shape. In a world that often pushes us toward isolation or certainty, this space invites open-ended discussion, curiosity, and the opportunity to think through ideas together—shaped by whoever shows up.

View Event →