Student reflects on Detroit history tour

Central Michigan University students visited the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and a historic walking tour of downtown Detroit Oct. 24 through an event sponsored by the Honors Program and our Critical Engagements Initiative.

First year student Odiesa Anderson, who is majoring in Accounting and Finance, says she was motivated to attend the trip by her curiosity to learn more about African American history.

“My knowledge before was surface level, but visiting the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History gave me the opportunity to understand and relate to the similarities between African Americans and African Caribbeans,” said Anderson.

"My mindset going on the field trip was simply to be open minded. I expected the knowledge I learned would be intense, sad, and overwhelming. I was looking forward to visiting Detroit but also learning how African Americans helped built the city and America.”

Following the museum tour, Rhonda Welsh, CMU’s Executive Director of Detroit Outreach, led the students through a historic walking tour.

“The architecture stood out to me the most, due to its beauty,” Anderson said. “I loved how there was a mixture of both old and modern architecture. I also loved wall and street art; it really shows the talented people who live in Detroit. The walking tour also taught me about some of the African American business that were created and how they helped influence and create the city of Detroit.”