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Joint Statement from Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, Co-Founders of Black Tech Saturdays

Today, as we come together, we’re reminded of both the weight of our challenges and the power we hold as a community. The recent election may have brought feelings of disappointment, fear, and even anger, but it’s in these moments that our resilience shines brightest. We come from a lineage that has faced struggle head-on, that has not only survived but thrived by holding fast to hope. This hope isn’t just an emotion—it’s a commitment to action, to create, and to uplift each other. It’s a belief that, even in times of uncertainty, we have the power to build something whole and lasting.

Black Tech Saturdays isn’t just a gathering; it’s a movement, a sanctuary. It’s a place where you can bring your full self, find strength, and know you’re not alone. Together, we’re a tribe, a family who lifts each other up and moves forward, hand in hand, no matter what challenges lie outside these walls. Here, we honor the vision of a future defined by ownership, freedom, and opportunity for us all.

We want to acknowledge and uplift our Black women—who, time and again, have carried the weight of change and led with grace, strength, and unbreakable love. They have been the backbone of our movements and our communities, and they deserve our support, protection, and honor. It’s on us to ensure that they are never alone in bearing these burdens, to be there for them with kindness and solidarity.

We gather here not just to dream but to build—to build businesses, to own our ideas, to create spaces where we define success on our own terms. Each of us plays a role in forging a legacy that goes beyond this moment, in creating systems that reflect our values and aspirations. The work ahead may be challenging—it requires sacrifice, grit, and unity. But as the arc of the moral universe bends toward justice, we are the force that moves it. This journey demands courage, determination, and above all, love.

So let us continue to walk forward, together, fueled by a hope that lights even the darkest paths. Let us carry this torch with pride, knowing that the fight for freedom, justice, and a brighter future is one we will never give up on. Thank you for your courage, for your resilience, and for being the heartbeat of this mission.

BTS Membership - Tech Bot

So, ‘What’s the tech?’

You’re Invited to become a BTS Member!!!

WE’RE ALL ABOUT CONNECTING AND WORKING TOGETHER!!!

Our Tech Connect Bot transforms the way our members connect and collaborate. To interact with this feature, please fill out the form. This information helps us match you with other members who can support your networking, funding, or employment needs.

Click here to join

CLICK HERE TO RSVP FOR THE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Holiday Celebration and Pitch Competition

Saturday, December 14th at NewLab!

Let’s close out the year together in true Black Tech Saturdays style—Detroit Hustle, TECH Muscle!

It’s the perfect opportunity to wrap up the year with good vibes, innovative pitches, and powerful connections.

Enjoy an evening of networking, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and witness some of the brightest tech minds in Detroit competing for top honors in our pitch competition.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR THE PITCH COMPETITION

Deadline to apply for Pitch Competition: November 15th @11:59pm

Black Tech Saturdays is Headed to Houston

Black Tech Saturdays , in partnership with the Michigan Growth Office, is heading to Houston during Afrotech! After a year of building with the Growth Office, Michigan is doubling down on creating America’s premier Black tech ecosystem—and we’re bringing that vision to Texas!

Friday, November 15th

If you’ll be in Houston, join us for a night of networking, innovation, and celebration! Meet Michigan’s top founders, creators, and game-changers, with special musical guest Donavan Glover and Nick Varcity. Let’s show everyone that Michigan is OPEN for business!

Request your spot for the Houston event here!

Our event, Bright Future: Black Genius Detroit X Houston, celebrates what’s possible when changemakers and dreamers unite. This is more than an event—it’s a movement. Together, we’re creating an ecosystem where Black tech talent thrives, and we can’t wait to share it with Houston.

Thank you all for your incredible support—let’s keep building this legacy together!

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO BLACK TECH SATURDAYS

Support Black Tech Saturdays - Your Donation Makes a Difference!

As we continue to grow and empower our community, we need your support! A donation to Black Tech Saturdays helps us provide resources, host impactful events, and foster innovation within Detroit’s tech ecosystem. No amount is too smallevery contribution makes a difference.

Thank you for being part of our mission!

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Let’s show the WORLD what we are doing…TOGETHER!!!

We encourage you to share your experience at BTS Events on social media. Let’s show the world the power of innovation and community.Why…because Together We Can be the ones we have been waiting on!!!

Tag us using: #DetroitDigitalEmpowermentSummit #BlackTechSaturdays #KeepGoing #BTSTogetherWeCan

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Black Tech Saturdays, 2050 15th Street, Detroit, MI 48216, USA

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