How can we develop the city in a way that allows for everyone, especially its long-term residents, to benefit from the changes currently underway? That is the question we will explore in an eight-part series on equitable development. 

Over the next few months, we'll be publishing weekly articles from Cody Rouge, showcasing the authentic stories of residents, community stakeholders, and local organizations helping to create positive change in the neighborhood.

The 12,000-square-foot Detroit Artists' Test Lab contains a professional photography studio, gallery, podcast studio, and private offices, with co-working space memberships starting in the fall.

The Michigan Youth Summit on Guns and Violence brought together more than 100 local youth and adult activists on May 26 for a day of workshops on subjects ranging from civil rights-awareness to revolutionary art. 

Educators across Detroit are working to get kids inspired to pursue a career in STEM by trading in rigid rules for collaborative, project-based learning. They also recognize the need for more girls and people of color, who are drastically underrepresented in STEM fields.

The nonprofit based in Highland Park provides consulting and technical assistance for cooperatives — work its team describes as necessary to building resiliency and greater community autonomy. 

In Detroit, the City Council is expected to take up a medical marijuana ordinance. And statewide, advocates and opponents are gearing up for a ballot initiative this November to legalize marijuana use. 

In 2015, Ali Dirul started a company that specializes in energy-oriented engineering solutions with a particular focus on solar power. And he takes special pride in making those resources useful and accessible to Detroiters. 

Teenagers at southwest Detroit's Western International HS aren't just sitting back and watching the world go by. On the contrary, they're leading and participating in campaigns to raise awareness of the most important social issues of the day.