While hundreds of people painted the town green on St. Patty’s day, many others gathered at the Detroit Marriott Hotel in the Renaissance Center to show their appreciation for those who paved the way before them. The Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan hosted its 32nd annual “Salute to Distinguished Warriors” dinner to commemorate the accomplishments of African Americans who have soldiered on, often in the face of resistance and adversity. The event honored five commendable activists who have made significant human and civil rights contributions to Southeastern Michigan. The honorees included Nathan G. Conyers, Irma Elder, Roy S. Roberts, Neal Shine (posthumously), and Rev. Dr. Dameau V. Stewart (posthumously).
Detroit Urban League patrons and supporters were officially welcomed by guest speakers who work in the Greater Detroit area and viewed video presentations highlighting the successes and contributions of the five honorees.
Charles Anderson, president of the Detroit Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan, explained that the event was about recognizing those who made it. “This program honors people who have laid down a foundation and showed us that, if we keep our shoulders up and persevere, then we’ll get there,” he said. “Our mission is to reinforce education, encourage youth development, entrepreneurship and the importance of serving others.”
The Urban League of Detroit has implemented a number of innovative and comprehensive programs to accomplish that objective, including the “college club,” which is dedicated to encouraging inner-city students to stay in school and pursue a college education.
Former vice president of General Motors, honoree Roy S. Roberts, expressed that becoming educated and striving for a college education was a major factor in his success. “I drove 120 miles a day for six years in order to obtain my college degree,” he stated. “I advise that you go to college and get some lessons in finance … I had a lot of help in my life from others, and that’s why I feel compelled to help other people.”
The Detroit branch of the Urban League also offers programs geared towards helping inner-city families struggling with unemployment and the challenges of starting a new business. Elder, one of the distinguished honorees and the first woman CEO of a Ford dealership, offered advice for entrepreneurs and those contemplating self-employment. She counseled that pursuing entrepreneurship is not easy and emphasized that success takes dedication.
“You have to have the courage to do it. … First, you have to like what you do. Secondly, learn as much as you can from your business as well as others, and, lastly, always be true to yourself and know what you want,” said Elder. -charity patrick
For more information regarding the College Club or other involvement with The Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan, visit the website at detroiturbanleague.org or call 313-832-4600.
