Abdul El-Sayed won Michigan’s Democratic Primary for the U.S. senate seat, even though he did not win the majority of votes in Wayne County. 

He says that stems from historic tensions between Arab and Black residents. Speaking on the WDET program The Metro, El-Sayed said the mistrust among Black voters is valid. But President Donald Trump poses a bigger threat to the state. 

“[Trump threatens] our ability to afford the basic things, and certainly the Arab and Muslim community, and certainly the well-being of the Black community. You think about the assault on the Voting Rights Act, led by the folks that he appointed to the courts. We have to come together beyond differences to recognize that we’re all in the same boat now, and we’ve got a responsibility to come together to build the future that we want.” 

El-Sayed argues his Republican opponent in the general election, Mike Rogers, will back any policy Trump wants to pass. Rogers says El Sayed’s progressive views are too extreme. 

Additional headlines for Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026

Pet vaccinations

The state veterinarian is reminding pet owners to make sure their furry friends are up to date on vaccinations.

Dr. Nora Wineland says pets are exposed to contagious diseases through wildlife, other animals, ticks, mosquitoes and pathogens in the environment.  Wineland says summer activities increase pets’ risk of exposure to contagious diseases. 

DNR hosts Beginner Backpacking

Anyone interested in being guided through their first hiking and backpacking experience can sign up this week for a DNR training in September.

Beginner Backpacking at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park will teach the basics of backpacking as hikers set up their first camp along the shores of Lake Superior before hiking through the woods and along Mirror Lake to the highest peak in the park.

The training is Sept. 18- 20. Registration closes Friday, Aug. 14.

Planet Ant party

Planet Ant’s Colony Fest and Summer BBQ are happening this Saturday. From 2 p.m. until midnight, the community can celebrate the training and performance space in its Black Box building with food, yard games, Mario Kart and a beer tent. Admission is free.

The Colony Fest Improv Tournament happens at Ant Hall across the street from 8-10 p.m. The event is a comedy showdown with the four troupes who won improv battles in July competing in a head-to-head championship. Tickets are $12.51.  

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Sit back, move, celebrate or any combination of the three—we’ve got you covered in this week’s events guide. With metro Detroit as a backdrop, enter the enchanting setting of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with some 90s tunes, groove into a new mode of yoga, and cheer on international soccer teams in the heart of downtown.

And, in a uniquely-Michigan event, honor 160 years of Vernor’s ginger ale in the Eastern Market.

Upcoming events (June 12-15)

World Soccer Celebration Watch Parties

Campus Martius

June 12, 19

Free

Join Detroit City FC at Campus Martius Park to root on Team USA as they face Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. and the match begins at 9 p.m. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on site. This event is free for all ages and registration is required.  Another watch party will be held on June 19 at 3 p.m. as USA takes on Australia. For more information and to register for entry, visit the Detroit City FC website.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Midland Center for the Arts

June 12, 14

$22.50+

This is the final weekend for the Midland Center for the Arts’ A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Based on Shakespeare’s work of the same name, the performance will include ’90s music and “moonlit mischief.” The event will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. Admission starts at $22.50.

Greenfield Village Block Party

Greenfield Village

June 12-14

Free with admission ($37-39)

Welcome the newest historic structure to the Greenfield Village. The Jackson Home was brought in from Selma, Alabama and will showcase the courageous family and community that came together during the Civil Rights Movement. The home hosted Dr. Martin Luther King and other civil rights leaders as they strategized how to win over the rights owed to them. At this opening event, there will be a Black-owned business market to browse, 40+ double dutch, Southern cuisine, live music, panels, demonstrations and more. Reservations are required if you hope to tour the inside of the home. This event is free for members and included in admission price.

Pawfest

MaryAnn Wright Animal Adoption & Education Center

June 13

$5, kids under 12 get in free

Support the care and rescue work of Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit at this bustling, tail-wagging event! From noon to 8 p.m., bring your family, friends, and furry companions by for shopping, adopting and plenty of activities. Fun events throughout the day include bingo, raffles, a cornhole tournament, and more. Plus, there’s a Kid Zone for young ones to run and play too. If you want to adopt one of the pets available on site, adoption fees are waived for the day.

Vernor’s 160th Anniversary Celebration

Riopelle Street in Eastern Market

June 14

Free

Vernor’s is celebrating 160 years with a daylong celebration on Riopelle Street in Eastern Market. Festivities begin at 1 p.m. with a full brunch menu from Marrow in the Market featuring Vernor’s specials. The event will also feature live music, games, and a street-wide toast made at 3:30 p.m. to celebrate Vernor’s 160th anniversary. This event is free to the public.

City Glow Yoga

Campus Martius

June 15

$10

Silent-disco meets zen movement in this signature event. Exercise to the beat and release some stress while meeting new people in downtown Detroit. Headphones for the guided session are provided, but don’t forget to bring your own water and yoga mat. There’s a meet and greet at 7 p.m., with the session itself running from 7:30-9 p.m.