Great Migrations: 

A People On the Move

We partnered with Ford to create a launch event for PBS’s “Great Migrations: A People on the Move,” with an exclusive preview for the Detroit community at Michigan Central Station.

Emmy-winning Producer and series host, Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr., presented a preview of this groundbreaking series that explores the transformative journey of Black Americans and their profound impact on our nation’s culture and identity. 

Civic created a unique, community-centric experience that highlighted Ford, Michigan Central, and Detroit’s pivotal role in the Great Migration. 

The evening included:

  • Pre-show reception and curated historical exhibit 
  • An exclusive screening of series highlights
  • An intimate panel discussion with Dr. Gates and special guests
  • A collaborative musical performance by a critically acclaimed choir and rising Motown artists
  • Media interviews and insider access for social media content creators as part of two pronged amplification strategy

Featured speakers:

Executive Producer, writer and host, Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman, Bill Ford

Filmmakers Julia Marchesi and Nailah Sims

Motown Museum CEO, Robin Terry

Clarinda Barnett-Harrison, Ford and Michigan Central Station employee whose family’s great migration story was featured.

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