The Michigan Black Summit kicks off this Friday with this year’s theme ‘The Black Dollar’.

Neighbors Organizing Against Racism President Trenton Bowens tells us over 150 people will be attending this year, and he’s looking forward to unity, education, and empowerment.

“I hope we bring to people the knowledge, the understanding of the black dollar, of the black vote, how important it is for us to get out and vote,” Bowens says. “If you want change, you must vote. We deserve a seat at the table. And I think it’s now time for us to galvanize the communities of Michigan and let’s move forward.”

Speakers at this year’s summit will feature Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist on Friday. Bowens also tells us Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO Quinten Messner will speak on Saturday.

“We started off year three with a dream, and we’re now making the dream a reality,” Bowens says. “I’m just excited and encourage everyone to come out to Lake Michigan College and attend the summit.”

The Michigan Black Summit will take place this weekend at the Mendel Center’s Grand Upton Hall at Lake Michigan College.