The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Justin Onwenu for Michigan’s 1st State Senate District because he represents the next generation of principled, results-driven leadership that Detroit and Downriver deserve. At a time when our communities demand safer neighborhoods, stronger economic opportunities, and leaders who understand both policy and people, Onwenu has demonstrated a proven commitment to delivering meaningful change before ever holding elected office.
As the City of Detroit’s first Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity, Onwenu has focused on helping entrepreneurs and small businesses – the backbone of Detroit’s economy – grow and succeed. Small businesses account for nearly 99% of all businesses in Michigan and employ almost half of the state’s private workforce. Strengthening these businesses is essential to creating jobs, building wealth, and revitalizing neighborhoods, and Onwenu has made that mission central to his public service.
His record extends beyond economic development. As a community organizer, someone with a law degree, and environmental justice advocate, Onwenu helped organize residents in Detroit, River Rouge, and Ecorse to address neighborhood concerns, supported efforts that secured cleaner air protections for schoolchildren, and helped pass the Detroit River Protection Ordinance to safeguard one of the region’s most important natural resources. He served as a law clerk for the UAW and SEIU and was the youngest member on Gov. Whitmer’s Black Leadership Advisory Council. He has also raised more than $150,000 for the United Community Housing Coalition to help keep families in their homes and volunteered as an attorney assisting residents through the expungement process—demonstrating a lifelong commitment to expanding opportunity and justice.
Public safety remains one of the defining issues facing the First District. Onwenu recognizes that safe communities require more than enforcement alone. His vision combines support for law enforcement and first responders with investments in violence prevention, youth programs, affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, and economic opportunity. Research consistently shows that thriving neighborhoods with strong economic foundations experience lower rates of crime, and his approach reflects that reality.
Equally important, Onwenu has earned the confidence of respected leaders across Detroit. A majority of the Detroit City Council has endorsed his candidacy, in addition to endorsements from Wayne County Executive Warren Evans and Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield, reflecting broad confidence in his ability to unite communities and deliver results. That support is a testament to both his character and his effectiveness as a public servant.
Michigan’s First Senate District deserves a leader who understands that economic development, public safety, and community empowerment are inseparable. Justin Onwenu has spent his career building coalitions, creating opportunities, and standing with working families. His experience, vision, and record of service make him exceptionally well-prepared to represent Detroit and Downriver in Lansing.
For these reasons, the Michigan Chronicle enthusiastically endorses Justin Onwenu for Michigan State Senate District 1.
