Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) and Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit) hosted a community resource fair and ice cream social at Palmer Park in Detroit on Saturday, August 12. With organizations like Detroit CERT, YMCA, Detroit Public Library, and People for Palmer Park in attendance, Metro Detroit residents were able to access vital information that will improve not only their quality of life, but the diverse, vibrant neighborhoods they inhabit.
“It was a beautiful day, and we had an amazing time,” said Sen. McMorrow. “To me, Detroit is a city filled with spirit, resilience and beauty, and I am so happy that we hosted an event like this for residents who live near the park. I am deeply committed to embracing and serving all constituents in District 8, while using my voice to champion diversity and inclusivity.”
Given Palmer Park’s history as one of the oldest public parks in the city of Detroit — dating back to its establishment in 1893 — it served as the perfect location for Sen. McMorrow and Rep. Scott’s event. Over the years, Palmer Park has been hailed for being the farming ground of the late U.S. Senator Thomas Witherell Palmer, who initially gifted the park to Detroit under the sole condition that the virgin forest be preserved. It is now colloquially known as a gathering place and safe haven for communities of color to enjoy nature amid the bustling cityscape.
Sen. McMorrow interacted with residents, community organizations and other state legislators. She also enjoyed ice cream and patronized local vendors.
Within the new Democratic Majority, Michigan legislators from the House and Senate understand the importance of collaboration — especially when it comes to community affairs. Sen. McMorrow and Rep. Scott came together to put on their event with one mission in mind: to show their commitment and appreciation to their constituents.
“I am so glad that we did this. We had so many resources and information available to our constituents, and we met them in person,” said Rep. Scott. “We want to continue to be their voice in the statehouse.”
Throughout the two-hour long event, people trailed in and out of the park and participated in line dancing, face painting and yoga. Motor City Sweet Treats, a prominent local Black-owned business, was one of the main vendors and provided free ice cream to attendees from its pink-and-white food truck. Seeing police officers, local officials such as Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and community members eat, connect and interact with one another made one thing clear: unity is how great things happen.
Read more from the Michigan Senate Democrats at SenateDems.com/press.