One of the Michigan Chronicle’s flagship annual programs, the highly anticipated Pancakes & Politics, series is back for its 2024 season, promising a fresh lineup of engaging discussions and dynamic speakers. Kicking off the 19th season of Pancakes & Politics, Rocket Companies Founder and Chairman Dan Gilbert will headline the first of four monthly in-person events starting Thursday, March 21, and setting the stage for a series of thought-provoking conversations over breakfast.
This year, the already-sold-out Pancakes & Politics series will take on a new flavor, but will still carry on a tradition of engaging, informative, and entertaining conversations, as the venue shifts from the Detroit Athletic Club to the new 16th-floor event space at the Rocket headquarters at One Campus Martius in downtown Detroit at 7:30 a.m. The move comes as the DAC embarks on a series of extensive renovations. The new location reflects the series’ commitment to innovation and community engagement, providing attendees with a unique backdrop to connect, collaborate, and converse about issues that matter to Detroiters, and the city’s civic and business leaders.
“We are thrilled to launch the 2024 season of Pancakes & Politics in the heart of downtown Detroit, surrounded by the energy and vitality of our city,” said Hiram Jackson, CEO of Real Times Media and Michigan Chronicle Publisher. “With Dan Gilbert as our opening speaker, we’re poised to ignite meaningful conversations that will shape the future of our community. Pancakes & Politics has always been the premier event for discussion hot button issues, with Black leadership driving the conversation, the agenda, and the speakers, all in a town hall style.”
Gilbert, a prominent figure in Detroit’s revitalization efforts, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. As the visionary behind Rocket Companies, he has played a pivotal role in driving economic growth and fostering innovation in the region. Attendees can look forward to hearing Gilbert’s perspectives on Detroit’s continued evolution and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead during his sit-down chat with Pancakes & Politics host Dennis Archer, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Sixteen42Ventures.
“We believe in the power of dialogue and collaboration to drive positive change in our community,” Jackson said. “By bringing together leaders like Dan Gilbert and community members from all walks of life, we aim to inspire action and drive progress that benefits us all.”
View this post on Instagram
Archer, Jr’s excitement about the upcoming season remains high, too. He acknowledged that for almost two decades, the Pancakes & Politics series has been a cornerstone of civic engagement in Detroit, and he will continue the tradition of fostering meaningful dialogue and connection by serving as the host.
The series holds immense importance in Detroit’s social fabric as it provides a platform for diverse conversations about issues that are important to all Detroiter. From economic development to education, healthcare, and social justice, Pancakes & Politics brings together a wide spectrum of voices and perspectives, ensuring that every community member feels represented and heard.
“The beauty of Pancakes & Politics lies in its ability to unite us as Detroiters,” remarked Jackson. “Regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs, we can come together over a shared meal to discuss the issues that impact our lives and our city.”
The 2024 season of Pancakes & Politics promises to be a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and civic engagement, with subsequent Pancakes & Politics dates set for Friday, April 12; Thursday, May 23; and Tuesday, June 18. All four will take place at the One Campus Martius event space on the 16th floor. Attendees are invited to share their perspectives, ask questions, and work together to build a brighter future for Detroit and beyond.
Since its inception in 2006, Pancakes & Politics has spotlighted the changemakers, influencers, leaders, and movers and shakers in the private and public sectors. Previous Pancakes & Politics events have presented such leaders as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Gov. Rick Snyder, Gov. Jennifer Granholm, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Senator Gary Peters, former Detroit Mayor Dave Bing, current Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans, former Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, former Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, former Oakland County Executive Mark Hackel, Bedrock CEO Kofi Bonner, tech entrepreneur and thought leader Dug Song, and a host of other influential community leaders and newsmakers.
For more information about upcoming Pancakes & Politics events and how to get involved, visit MichiganChronicle.com/PancakesAndPolitics/.
About Post Author
