Actions

WXYZ Editorial: It's 'Go Time' for Detroit & the NABJ Annual Convention

Posted at 6:45 PM, Jul 26, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-26 19:01:50-04

It’s “Go time” for Detroit & NABJ!

Back in 1992, the National Association of Black Journalists held its annual convention in the Motor City.  Next week, NABJ will be back in town. More than 3,000 journalists and newsmakers will experience and report on how much the “D” has changed in 26 years!  It’s time for Detroit to show off its "Comeback City" revitalization. 

“All of these journalists, some of who have not been here since 1992, will get to see Detroit. And I can tell you right now that folks are going to be blown away!”

- Rochelle Riley, NABJ Convention Honorary Co-Chair

The 5-day conference will kick off Tuesday evening with a town hall meeting open to the public.  The convention is expected to generate $3 million in direct spending and will be spread out across downtown.

Headliners such as Spike Lee, Tyler Perry, Zina Garrison, Detroit’s very own Shaun Robinson, Vickie Winans and Kem, will draw international attention.  Several events will be open to the community. The convention will also recruit talent.

“We will host the largest career fair for journalists in the world!”

- Vickie Thomas, NABJ Region II Director

That’s vitally important to showcasing and growing some of the best communication experts in America.  We also encourage them to get out and see all that our city offers:  Our airport, the restaurants, the parks, the international riverfront, the museums and outdoor markets.   

“How can we let the whole world know what’s happening in Detroit?  And I can tell you there’s a lot of interest.”

- Sheila Neal, DMCVB Senior Sales Manager

But most of all, the NABJ Convention is another golden opportunity for Detroiters to row out their welcome mat and be great ambassadors for our guests from practically every corner of the United States. 

It’s “Go Time” Detroit!

I’m Mike Murri, Vice President & General Manager

Broadcast: Aug. 26 - 29, 2018