Past Event A Tale of Ten Cities Truth Toward Reconciliation: The Vision, Journey and Voices of Royal Oak Township Friends of Royal Oak Township, Inc. (FOROT) is honored and pleased to present our “Truth Toward Reconciliation: The Vision, Journey, and Voices of Royal Oak Township,” historic initiative. The project involved two short films, Part I: A Tale of Ten Cities and Part II: The Phoenix Rising. The exciting cinematic experience, our first short film entitled, A Tale of Ten Cities, offers a true historical representation of a 200-year journey of South Oakland County. This innovative initiative shed light on historic annexations and the development of ten municipalities from the original Royal Oak Township geographic area. Once a thriving 36 square-mile Black community, it was gradually reduced to just 0.55 square miles through redlining, annexation, and decades of systemic erasure. On June 11, 2025, t his local screening at St. John Episcopal Church took place in one of the very ten cities named in the film, offering a unique opportunity to reflect, connect, and honor the communities shaped—and reshaped—by policy and resistance. A Community Unfolded. A Truth Revealed. Past Event History & Healing Reparations and Repair in Detroit & Beyond MLK Day and University of Michigan • January 2024 In celebration of MLK Day, FOROT hosted a panel at the University of Michigan that explored the past, present, and future of reparations and healing - and the importance of collective action Angela Dillard, Lauren Hood, Marcia Black, Baba Cheikh Mbacké Event Date January 15, 2024 Ann Arbor, MI University of Michigan About the Event FOROT was invited to participate on a panel at U-M's month-long celebration of MLK on January 15th, 4:00-6:00pm on the Ann Arbor campus. The program event theme "Hope & History" focused on reparations in Detroit (and beyond) and utilizing the knowledge found in resources such as storytelling, oral histories, and archives that center the lived experiences of Black people. Projects like the Black Bottom Archives and the Friends of Royal Oak Township’s Truth Toward Reconciliation initiative gave agency of the possibilities of reparations as a form of remembrance and healing. The event was presented by the University of Michigan Department of Afro-American and African Studies, Department of History, and Eisenberg Institute for Historical Studies. Angela D. Dillard, Vice Provost of Undergraduate Education was the (moderator) provided opening remarks and framed the panels discussion. Lauren Hood opened with reflections and provocation on reparations work and the idea of repair, emphasizing the importance of continuing to open doors as we navigate the path toward reparations. She spoke about the strides that people of African ancestry have made in the United States and specifically U of M. Highlighting the present panel was representative of the African race on a major European University. Baba Cheikh shared the importance and intersection of culture and history and how FOROT has centered its work and programs on the interrelated components. FOROT’s short film, A Tale of Ten Cities, complimented his presentation and the importance of history in the development of the film and founding of the organization. How history residual effect has left lingering deleterious effects because of annexations, redlining and miseducation. Marcia Black from the Black Bottom Archives spoke extensively on the necessity of telling historical stories that center Black lives and experiences as a precondition for the current/future work of repair. Marcia touched on the fact that reparations are more than just monetary distribution, there must be engagement, respect and apology. She furthered shared in the redevelopment of I-75, specifically Black Bottoms prior location, and how the community is invited to lend their voice to what they would like incorporated in the redevelopment. A combination of University of Michigan Professors, Chairs and Provost welcomed attendees and introduced the presenters, framed the panel discussion, and thanked them and closed the event.

CENTENNIAL • STORY • COMMUNITY PRESERVING HISTORY. EMPOWERING COMMUNITY. Rooted in over 100 years of Black history, community, and resilience. Featuring our signature experience: Threads That Connect Us → EXPLORE OUR WORK → GET INVOLVED → Donate →

Explore Royal Oak Township history, community archives, preservation initiatives, oral histories, and efforts to protect and share the community record. Centennial & Community Record Royal Oak Township’s history is not only preserved—it is actively documented and shared as part of our Centennial work. Through storytelling, quilt-inspired contributions, and intergenerational programming, community members are invited to become part of a living archive reflecting over 100 years of history and resilience. Get Involved Centennial Honoring 100 years of history, education, and community through storytelling and public engagement. Learn More → Threads That Connect Us A hands-on experience where participants contribute quilt squares, drawings, and reflections to a growing community record. Explore Threads →

More details Grant Turns 100 — And the Record Continues On September 26, 2026, nearly 175 former students, educators, families, young people and community members gathered at Historic Ulysses S. Grant School to celebrate 100 years of education, community and legacy. The celebration brought generations of Grant together—from 100-year-old former third-grade teacher Mrs. Hazel Lee, former Principals, Herb Ivory and Zakiya Hollifield and alumni in their 80s and 90s to former Grant preschoolers who returned as young people to help with the celebration. Guests shared memories, explored Grant and Royal Oak Township history, added birthday wishes to the Centennial record, and gathered for a community photograph at Grant's Michigan Historical Marker. The celebration was also attended by Royal Oak Township officials, Superintendent Camille Hibbler, the Ferndale Board of Education president and several board members, and Ferndale Mayor Raylon Leaks-May, whose children attended Grant. Royal Oak Township Treasurer Kim Reaves also provided hands-on support in helping make the celebration possible. Grant's birthday celebration may be over, but the Centennial—and FOROT's work to preserve its stories, photographs, records and memories—continues. Generations gathered at Grant's Michigan Historical Marker during the Grant 100 Birthday Celebration on September 26, 2026. The celebration brought former students, educators, families and young people together to mark a century of Grant history. News and events More details Honoring History and Education In 2021, the Michigan Historical Commission approved FOROT’s application to erect a historical marker designated for Ulysses S. Grant Elementary School built in 1926 and located in Royal Oak Charter Township (Oakland County, MI). The school was at the center of a protracted school desegregation battle. FOROT is pleased to announce the historic marker was installed in July 2023. A dedication ceremony was held to honor the permanent placement of the marker at historic Ulysses S. Grant Elementary School in 2024. We encourage you to visit and read the text on both sides of the marker and capture an image of this historic marker. Community members in addition to alumni, state, county, local officials, civic leaders, and supporters attended the event. More details Everyday is Black History Every single day presents a unique and invaluable opportunity to honor and celebrate the incredibly rich and diverse history of Black culture, as well as the countless and invaluable contributions it has made to our society throughout the centuries. "There is too much history to fit into 28 days." - Cheikh A.B. Mbacke, Sankofa Learning Center Director and Friends of Royal Oak Township Co-Founder. FUEL Winterfest Ferndale Upper Elementary hosted its 2025 Winter Resource Night for families to explore the various resources available within Ferndale Public Schools. The event provided an opportunity for parents and students to connect with local services, programs, and support systems designed to enhance the educational experience. Attendees had the chance to meet with staff, ask questions, and learn about the valuable resources that can help students thrive both in and out of the classroom. The night was a great success, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among families and school staff. More details Together We Thrive At FOROT, we are dedicated to developing strong partnerships that uplift our community. Gather with us at the Sankofa Learning Center, where we blend cultural ambience with initiatives. The Association of Black Psychologists joined us for thoughtful discussions over libations while they plan meaningful mental health experiences. Stay tuned for their upcoming Mental Health symposium. More details Key Partner Award FOROT continues to build and sustain relationships, as demonstrated by our recognition as a Key Partner with the MSU Extension center. On September 28, 2022 our President, Brigitte Hall, MSU Alumni returned to MSU to receive the award. The award is recognition as a 2022 Michigan State University Extension Key Partner for being a significant partner for over a decade. The MSU Extension Key Partner Award recognizes those who have helped create, improve, support and promote MSU mission of improving the lives of Michigan residents. FOROT’s programming and partnerships, adds to the Diversity Equity and Inclusion the University is committed to uplift. FOROT has partnered with MSU since 2010 with various programs that target Youth, Adults and Seniors by empowering communities through our collective dedication to education of health and wellness, and urban agriculture. We celebrated with our board members, volunteers and MSU conference attendees. More details Cultural Lectures: Enriching Your Mind Discover the power of culture with our Cultural Lecture series, dedicated to highlighting the significance of grounding ourselves in our heritage and purpose. By nurturing our community’s understanding of cultural identity, we promote self-determination and growth. Attend our lectures to engage with others, share insights, and strengthen the bonds that tie us together. Together, we can honor our past and build a brighter future. Black Excellence Award On Thursday, February 16th the Oakland County Board of Commissioners recognized Brigitte R. Hall, FOROT President as winner of their 2023 Black Excellence Award. In presenting the award annually, Commissioners honor an outstanding Black resident of Oakland County who has taken strides to improve the community, made notable achievements or is otherwise worthy of recognition in honor of Black History Month. More details More details 100 Years Celebration An unforgettable celebration of Royal Oak Township’s 100-year anniversary. It began in 1921, circa, when the first plot of land was sold to a person of African ancestry. Uplifting and acknowledging this momentous occasion inspired members of the community, volunteers, and partners to reflect on our rich history, achievements, and milestones. We took the opportunity to honor the hard work and dedication of the many individuals who have contributed over the years, and to celebrate our ongoing commitment to building a stronger and more vibrant community FOROT on the Move Contrary to urban myth 13 is not unlucky, it stands for direction and pragmatism. As FOROT entered its 13th year our primary focus is on building a secure foundation for the future. We are continuing our developing new leadership, building awareness. Accordingly, in 2023 we are steadily moving our 2010 founding pillars of advocacy efforts forward. Cultural Enrichment, Health and Wellness Promotion, Urban Agriculture, and Historical Preservation. We are now located in Southfield in our administrative office and cultural center. This location houses our Sankofa Learning Center which provides programs that focus on our core components for children, youth, and families. The newly formed Historical Society of Royal Oak Charter Township is also housed in our new location. More details

Access career resources, workforce opportunities, training pathways, and community-centered support through FOROT’s Career Center. Explore Opportunities →

Discover FOROT’s health, nutrition, gardening, and urban agriculture initiatives that connect wellness, education, and community engagement. Urban Agriculture Sankofa Community Garden is FOROT’s primary urban agriculture initiative, rooted in the growing movement for community-based farming, wellness, and sustainable living. This interactive 8-week program introduces youth ages 6–15 to organic gardening, healthy food systems, and urban agriculture through hands-on learning and physical activity. Participants engage in planting, harvesting, and guided outdoor education while building knowledge around nutrition, environmental stewardship, and healthy lifestyles. Sankofa Community Garden works alongside FOROT’s Healthy Futures health and nutrition programming to connect wellness, education, and community engagement. I really enjoyed planting the seeds and then watching them grow and cook them. Lauren H. Jr. Master Gardner Book Now Food Champions Our Healthy Futures program has expanded into a ninth-year learning opportunity for 3rd graders and the community. Book Now Sankofa Garden Our Sankofa garden focus is to keep youth healthy, expand gardens into true outdoor classrooms and engage children in both after school and summer gardening in the community.  Healthy Community Initiatives Connect with Us First name Last name Email Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit

FOROT The mission of FOROT is to empower through advocacy for healthier, culturally conscious, self-sufficient communities via education of health and wellness, culture, life skills and history. Learn More Culture Promotion Cultural Enrichment programs are offered throughout the year to highlight contemporary and traditional cultural events which celebrate individual and historical contributions. Programs are designed to increase exposure to culture while increasing consciousness relevant to the significance of culture and tolerance among diverse ethnic groups. They include Celebration of Kwanzaa, Juneteenth, and a series of Black History Month programs and activities. Contact Health and Wellness The goal of Health and Wellness Promotion is to produce healthier communities, provide accurate health related information, encourage preventative health screenings, and reduce health disparities. Health and Wellness Promotion programs targets children, youth and adults with an emphasis on the benefits of food produced without the utilization of pesticides, understanding nutritional information on food label, and caloric intake. Contact Honoring Education: Preserving History Historical pillar include several long-range projects, which include acquiring a historical site designation for a school building located in Royal Oak Charter Township and a free-standing historical library archival library. Our preservation efforts include community engagement, presentations, and activities to acquire and archive historical materials that depict the 1833 founding of the community. It has taken ten years to launch the historical pillar, a long-range initiative, which has been contingent on the acquisition and availability of funding. Contact Advocacy FOROT has been actively engaged in the community for over 10 years advocating for culturally conscious, healthier, self-committed communities. Our partners serve a predominantly African American constituency including large numbers of low-income families. We would like to thank all of our volunteers and supporters for their ongoing support. Contact

Explore cultural traditions, community stories, rituals and educational snippets. Experience culture through engaging content and history. Culture & Heritage Cultural Enrichment programs are offered throughout the year to highlight contemporary and traditional cultural events which celebrate individual and historical contributions. Programs are designed to increase exposure to culture while increasing consciousness relevant to the significance of culture and tolerance among diverse ethnic groups. They include Celebration of Kwanzaa, Juneteenth, and a series of Black History Month programs and activities. Growing a Culture of Consciousness Cultural Traditions Celebrating heritage, traditions, through art, music, ceremony, and shared experience. Global Connections Connecting local community history to global experiences and identity. Storytelling Sharing voices, memory, and lived experiences through dialogue and creative expression. Connect with Us First name Last name Email Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit

Health and Wellness Health & Wellness Promotion is at the heart of FOROT’s community care strategy. Through nutrition education, physical activity, and preventive screenings, we empower residents to live longer, healthier lives. Our work reduces disparities, builds health literacy, and promotes food grown without harmful chemicals — because health is a right, not a privilege. More details OUR PILLARS - GROWING OUR IMPACT Urban Agriculture Our Urban Agriculture pillar reflects the power of growing together. Through community gardens, education, and sustainability, we reconnect youth and families to the land. We emphasize organic, pesticide-free growing practices and honor ancestral traditions that view food as medicine and community as soil. Culture Promotion Cultural Enrichment programs are offered throughout the year to highlight contemporary and traditional cultural events which celebrate individual and historical contributions. Programs are designed to increase exposure to culture while increasing consciousness relevant to the significance of culture and tolerance among diverse ethnic groups. They include Celebration of Kwanzaa, Juneteenth, and a series of Black History Month programs and activities. Historical Preservation FOROT’s Historical Preservation pillar is a long-range commitment to protecting the truth of our community’s origins. From the 1833 founding of Royal Oak Township to the 2023 installation of a historical marker, we document, safeguard, and celebrate our legacy — even when funding is scarce and recognition delayed. Full Video Advocacy Advocacy is the backbone of FOROT. For more than a decade, we’ve mobilized for educational equity, community health, and self-determined development. Our work amplifies the voices of Black communities long ignored or displaced by systemic forces. Connect with Us First name Last name Email Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit

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Historical Preservation Our founding Historical pillar included several long-range projects, which encompass acquiring a historical site designation for a school building located in Royal Oak Charter Township and a free-standing historical archival library. Our preservation efforts are centered around community engagement, presentations, and activities to acquire and archive historical materials that depict the founding of the community in 1833. It has taken ten years to launch the historical pillar, a long-range initiative, which has been contingent on the acquisition and availability of funding. Absent of funding, we are thankful to have continued to push our plans forward for an idea that began 13 years ago. On July 21, 2023 one of our labor of loves came to fruition with acknowledgement and installation of a historical marker. According to Brigitte R. Hall, FOROT Founding President and current Executive Director, “we are so proud to honor Ulysses S. Grant school, it was the building blocks of our culture and education.” Royal Oak Charter Township is now comprised of approximately 97% people of African ancestry and a disproportionate number of medically fragile elders. ”We encourage you to visit and read the text on both sides of the marker and capture an image of this historic marker. A Blast from the Past Our preservation initiatives aim to honor storytelling, pioneers, traditions, and celebrate heritage. Our senior programs are designed to provide care, support, and enriching experiences for seniors of African ancestry. We value their wisdom, contributions, and well-being. Get Involved Centennial Hub A Tale of Ten Cities History Then and Now Paths to Preservation Connect with Us First name Last name Email Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit