At a time when division has replaced dialogue, and conflict has replaced collaboration, Michigan requires leadership that is willing to chart a different course.
For this reason, The Black Slate Inc. proudly and enthusiastically announces its endorsement of Mike Duggan, Independent candidate for Governor of Michigan.
For decades, The Black Slate has played a pivotal role in shaping electoral outcomes through disciplined grassroots organizing, informed voter engagement, and a steadfast commitment to Black political empowerment. Their endorsements are the result of a rigorous process and carry with them both the weight of their history and the expectation of principled leadership.
The Black Slate has a long-standing history of endorsing Democratic candidates. But their sole commitment has always been to support candidates who will best represent and advance the interests of Black people. As Chairman Kandia Milton said, this endorsement is a reaffirmation of that mission, not a departure from it.
History reminds us that this approach is not unprecedented. Under the leadership of their founder, Rev. Albert B. Cleage, Jr., The Black Slate endorsed Republican Governor William Milliken, building a relationship rooted in trust and mutual respect that delivered meaningful outcomes for Black communities.
“On behalf of The Black Slate Committee, it is my distinct honor to extend our formal endorsement of Mike Duggan for Governor of Michigan.” said Chairman Kandia Milton. “This endorsement reflects our deep belief in leadership that is accountable to the people and committed to delivering real results–especially for those historically overlooked. Mike Duggan’s record demonstrates both the capacity to lead and the courage to challenge the status quo at a time when our communities need it most.”
The Black Slate’s relationship with Mike Duggan spans decades. From his tenure as President of the Detroit Medical Center–where he partnered with The Black Slate to bring vital health resources directly into Detroit’s neighborhoods–to his time as Mayor of Detroit, Mike Duggan has remained responsive and engaged with the community, even in moments when they had not yet formally endorsed his candidacy.
As Mayor, Mike Duggan led Detroit out of bankruptcy into a period of growth, driving investment across downtown and neighborhoods like Corktown, Livernois Avenue of Fashion, Midtown, New Center, and the North End. His leadership has delivered more than 4,600 affordable housing units–over 1,600 newly built–many developed by a new generation of Black developers.
Economic opportunity has expanded, with thousands more Detroiters employed since 2014. Programs like Grow Detroit’s Young Talent and Motor City Match have created tens of thousands of youth and local jobs, while major manufacturing investments and workforce initiatives have helped drive the city’s unemployment rate down significantly.
Public safety has improved through community-centered strategies, including youth employment, infrastructure restoration like street lighting, and investments in Community Violence Intervention programs–efforts that have contributed to historic reductions in violent crime.
Now, at a time when political discourse has become increasingly fractured, Mike Duggan has made the bold decision to run as an Independent candidate–rejecting the labels that divide us and calling for a return to collaboration and problem-solving. This decision signals a willingness to bring people together, confront difficult challenges, and pursue real solutions for the people of Michigan.
“The driving factor behind my career in public service has been to set aside ‘us versus them’ politics, whether that has been Black or white, Christian versus Jewish or Muslim, or city versus suburbs. In 2013, everyone said a white guy wouldn’t win in Detroit. But by listening to and collaborating with groups like The Black Slate, I delivered on plans to turn the street lights back on or reduce carjackings at gas stations. We’re building the same movement all over the state, with a huge thanks to The Black Slate for believing in this campaign,” Duggan said.
