For over 30 years, Affirmations has been the hub of Southeast Michigan’s LGBTQ+ communities and their allies. In the heart of Ferndale, in a 17,000-square-foot building owned by the community (it’s mortgage is paid), people of all sexual orientations, identities, expressions and cultures find socialization, support and programming to enrich their lives.   

“What I liked the most about doing this was discovering the Black women-owned businesses that I didn’t know were out there in the city. I don’t think they get a lot of light, as far as publicity goes,” Tytiana says.

Young people have played a vital role in the development of this new community center in Southwest Detroit.