Letters to Authors 1.) Bankole Thompson, Editor of the Michigan Chronicle

I'll be doing a series of letters to authors around the country; writing for justice, writing to justice advocates, writing on unusual topics of human rights and civil rights, and reframing the arguments thereof to speak to an evolving world. As these letters will get pointed, and the responses potentially unpleasant, I felt that I should start it on a positive note.

Most Detroiters cannot name one inspirational person in the local media. I have been given the benefit of the wisdom of at least five. Bankole Thompson tops my list. As senior editor of the Michigan Chronicle, he has been an integral part of an established alternative media voice to Detroit for decades. He hosts "Center Stage" on WADL, tackles multiple news segments and projects for NPR - WDET 101.9, and participates in countless peace and justice efforts around the city and state. He has been offered positions with the Free Press and other local AOL - Time - Warner media outlets, and has refused each of them, choosing to publish diverse perspectives rather than succumb to the mainstream media machine.

Dear Mr. Bankole Thompson,

I had the good fortune to see you on American Black Journal in early November of this year, and have chosen to take this opportunity to express my high esteem and strong gratitude for your perspective as a progressive voice, and your contribution to Detroit via the Michigan Chronicle. Perhaps this choice requires more explanation. I was also fortunate enough to hear you speak to a graduate class on developing media campaigns for social justice at Marygrove College last spring, and heard portions of your contributions to various political media panels prior to that time. When I saw you on American Black Journal, you were discussing the importance of engaging young people in midterm elections, and you gave me inspiration and renewed vigor for my efforts in youth organizations for peace and justice. I updated my Facebook status about how brilliant and well- crafted your contribution was. Only after spending a month discussing your statements with friends did I realize that I ought to express my thanks personally.

Each time I hear you speak, I grow in respect and appreciation for your opinion and your eloquence in its delivery. This effect occasionally surprises me, as your words usually leave me with the impression that I could not admire you or your impact on Detroit any more, an impression which is proven wrong at every turn. It is in this spirit of admiration that I must inquire as to whether you have considered writing a book. I understand that, as a social justice advocate, newspaper editor, and active member on numerous boards and panels throughout the community, your time is precious. However, I feel that your reflections would be invaluable to a new generation of Detroit progressives, and would provide hope and direction to young people throughout the country. If you have written works available, or if you are currently working towards such a project, please let me know. Otherwise, keep hope alive, keep working for justice, and thank you for everything you do!

Happy Holidays,

LOLSistrata

I'll be sure to post responses to any and all letters, if and when they happen.
~ LOLS