In the fall of 2025, the federal government came to a halt, unable to reach an agreement on a national budget. By October, word spread across the US that, beginning November 1st, hundreds of thousands would be cut off from their SNAP benefits. In response to this looming crisis, the Riverwise Collective, alongside BYP 100 Detroit, YVAC, artist Konstance Ke-nee-go-keshek, the Grandriver Community Block Club, and many others, came together to bring back the People’s Potluck. The first was held in December of 2025 and the next in April of 2026.
For each event, organizers put the call out to their networks, neighbors and friends and received an outpouring of community love and support. All the donations of shelf-stable food, personal hygiene supplies and clothing provided an unrestricted free store open to all. These gatherings are more than a single act of mutual aid; they are also spaces for shared learning and cultural expression.
In April, folks from Asamblea Popular Detroit, Singing Resistance, The MI Alliance of Timebanks and COS Press Network also joined in the collective effort. In addition, for each potluck, the collective came together to produce a themed zine full of information, resources and community art. In invoking our belief that “we got us” can’t just be lip service, these events are an opportunity to deepen our commitments to liberation, love and moving beyond extractive and inhumane ways of being.
A panel explored how communities might keep one another safe in uncertain times. Tiffany Harris led chair yoga and meditations to help us ground and center collectively. The Singing Resistance protest choir and Tiger Bouquet, an activist band, led participants in protest chants and songs, while Rocketman offered a powerful a cappella performance. One Single Rose moved the crowd with poetry full of Detroit love. Tables overflowed with homemade hot food, prepared and shared in abundance. Special shout-out to the homey who brought the almond cake!
These are beautiful and well-cherished events, made possible by the hands and hearts of many. Anticipation is already building for its return in the fall.
