Different, adjustable, but fascinating: three words that describe
my views and experiences so far in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit is unlike most
cities, especially in comparison to Atlanta. This city is not as lively like I
was expecting; in addition, there are many abandoned buildings and not a very
good public transportation system. Now, there was hope for the city to thrive
again, but unfortunately this did not happen due to government officials' own
personal greed. This personal greed ultimately caused economic hardships to
remain and continue to affect the residents living in Detroit. I have seen this
firsthand working at St. Frances Cabrini Clinic where we see uninsured adults
with chronic illnesses. Most of them do not have jobs, live with family or friends,
or are homeless; however, I do not pass any judgement nor treat them
differently because they too are human and deserve help just like you and I.
Additionally, I have noticed about this city, is that some or most of
the residents want to improve their lives and their neighborhoods. The desire
for improvement is mainly seen through the work of art around the city. My
community and I had the opportunity to visit a colorful public art environment
known as the Heidelburg Project (a catalyst for change). Their mission is to
inspire people to appreciate and use artistic expression to enrich and improve
their lives and the social and economic health of the greater community. The
artist and founder, Tyree Guyton, wanted to take a stand against the decay, crime,
and apathy in the neighborhood where he was raised. Guyton completed this task
by using vacant and abandoned homes as his canvass, and decorated them with old
or discarded items. It was a very interesting sight to see and hard to
understand fully, but I enjoyed visiting this sight. Here are some pictures of
the art.
Shari Allen - St. Frances Cabrini Clinic - Detroit, MI
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