The Road to ESSENCE Tour is a national event series that will create space for Black liberation and coalition-building; unite communities around shared values of justice and equity; celebrate arts, entertainment, and culture; and amplify action-oriented ways for folks to fight back in this time of political extremism. This four-city tour is hosted by SisterSong and the Global Black Economic Forum. SisterSong is a national Reproductive Justice organization engaged in movement building and shifting culture for the culture. Alongside the Global Black Economic Forum, which focuses on economic justice and inclusion for Black and marginalized communities, both organizations advocate for systemic change to improve the lives of marginalized communities. At the intersection of culture, politics, and community, the Road to ESSENCE Tour will bring musical performances, panel discussions, activations, celebrity speakers, and more to Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Houston, and New Orleans. It will also build hype for the ESSENCE Festival and bring the energy and joy of the festival to people all over the country.
On the next stop of the Road To Essence national tour in Detroit, in partnership with The Global Black Economic Forum, SisterSong welcomes Teedra Moses — and a powerful gathering of voices leading the charge for community, justice, and liberation — to the movement.
At this Road To Essence Detroit stop, we'll be coming together in community around the theme of Rebuilding Our Communities After Harm — a conversation rooted in Economic Justice, Black Liberation, and Reproductive Freedom. Because in this moment, our healing, liberation, and joy are NON-NEGOTIABLE.
Join us for a powerful panel featuring Kenya Parham, Chief Growth Officer at SPILL, and Alphonso David, CEO & President of The Global Black Economic Forum — moderated by Monica Simpson, Executive Director of SisterSong, Dr. Mosley, Founder & CEO of The Playbook, and Tameka Robinson, Executive Producer of The Perfect Neighbor. Plus, a special performance by Teedra Moses.
After powerful conversation and community connection, join us as we gather, organize, and build the future we all deserve — grounded in Joy and Liberation.
May 2–3 | 1–5PM
Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD)
On the next stop of the Road To Essence national tour in Detroit, SisterSong and The Global Black Economic Forum invite you to the Road To Essence Faith Brunch — a powerful and intentional gathering rooted in the intersection of faith, reproductive justice, and community care.
At this Road To Essence Detroit stop, we'll be coming together in community anchored in worship, joy, and collective healing. Because in this moment, our healing, liberation, and joy are NON-NEGOTIABLE.
Join us for a soul-stirring live performance by Gospel singer Kierra Sheard, whose presence will anchor the room in worship, joy, and emotional release — reminding us of the power of faith as both refuge and catalyst for change. Through curated conversation, community fellowship, and shared intention, we'll explore how faith communities can play a vital role in advancing reproductive justice, supporting Black maternal health, and reimagining collective liberation.
More than a brunch, this gathering is a call to action — inviting participants to reclaim faith as a space that affirms bodily autonomy, nurtures community, and sustains the movement forward.
Free food & drinks. Must RSVP to attend.
May 3 | 12:30–3:30PM EDT Detroit, MI
