Detour Detroit is now accepting pitches from freelance writers to report on development and how it affects Detroit communities for a series in partnership with the Detroit Equity Action Lab – Race and Justice Reporting Initiative.

We want to hear stories that haven’t been told about development that’s had an impact where you live. Possible stories might look at the ways inequitable development can diminish democracy and minimize citizen participation, public/private partnerships, land sales, sustainable development and local government’s role in fostering public input (or not) — and any development topics that matter to your neighbors.

DEAL’s Race and Justice Reporting Initiative supports writers that come from the communities affected by the stories upon which they report, with the intention of diversifying media bylines, highlighting issues in those communities and building trust between communities of color and the media.

We specifically encourage BIPOC journalists and writers from marginalized communities to apply. We aim to foster connections with journalists of color and deepen our community-centered coverage. With support from DEAL, Detour will offer journalists competitive rates and mentorship.  

Email Detour editor Kate Abbey-Lambertz at kate@detourdetroiter.com with the subject “Development pitch” by Aug. 9 to submit your story pitch. Proposals for features, enterprise stories or explainers grounded in original reporting are welcome. Pitches should be under 200 words, including a summary, reporting plan, potential sources and any relevant research. Please include samples of your previous writing via link or attachment.

Have a question or want to get feedback on your idea before officially submitting? Email kate@detourdetroiter.com.

Want a better sense of what kinds of stories Detour publishes? Here’s some of our recent equitable development coverage:

North End Landing developers press on despite opposition to 180-unit project
The lost houses of Clarkdale Street
The Fitzgerald Revitalization Project is winding down. Why did it fall short of expectations?
Storehouse of Hope wanted to create a new path for Detroit homeownership. What went wrong?
At the Detroit Hoodstead, this couple is teaching themselves about homeownership — and sharing with others