Floyd was also an influential force in Grand Rapids’ social scene. Along with John Shakelford, and Milo Brown, the three entrepreneurs banded together to secure Roma Hall located on the corner of Franklin and Division as the location for Club Indigo, the first Black nightclub in Grand Rapids.
Professional access and affinity bar associations
By Alex Thibodeau
Thibodeau
There were many important conversations about race this past year and Michigan was often central to the national debate. Our most populous city, Detroit, has the largest percentage of African Americans of any in America, and statewide there is significant racial, cultural and socioeconomic diversity.
One issue that pervades conversations on race is representation or the lack thereof in positions of power and the effect that has on minority communities. The recent election of the first multiracial woman to the vice presidency is a reminder that representation across all levels is necessary for a truly diverse society.